MF EXPLAINS IT ALL

Why Do We Tilt Our Heads When Being Photographed?

It's called head canting, and the psychology of it goes beyond looking good for the 'gram.

John Adams predicted people would celebrate Independence Day with fireworks.

The History of Fourth of July Fireworks

The celebration of American Independence Day has never been small, subdued, or quiet. Here’s why the Fourth of July is illuminated with colorful displays in major cities, small towns, and backyards.

There’s a science behind all those colors.

How Do Fireworks Get Their Colors?

The chemistry behind the vibrant colors of fireworks is another reason to “ooh” and “aah” at the sky this Fourth of July.

Storefront of Trader Joe's in Los Angeles.

The Reason Trader Joe’s Parking Lots Are So Small

Trader Joe’s admits their parking lots are small, and they don’t plan on changing that anytime soon.

What’s the Difference Between Shrimp and Prawns?

Shrimp and prawns are two tasty crustaceans that are often confused with one another. We examine the differences.

Meteorological summer and astronomical summer are not the same.

Why Meteorological and Astronomical Seasons Don’t Line Up

Happy first day of (meteorological) summer!

You Might Be Storing Your Bread All Wrong

If you think a bread box or plastic bag is the answer, you're not rising to the occasion.

How to Spot Poison Oak

Poison ivy isn’t the only thing that can give you a nasty rash.

There's a reason gas stations never just round up.

The Reason Gas Stations Charge 9/10 of a Cent

The unusual fractional price you see at gas stations has roots in the Great Depression, but marketing is to blame, too.

The Sistine Chapel's no-photo policy has an unexpected origin.

The Reason Why No Photography is Allowed in the Sistine Chapel

Visitors to the chapel will find their experience peppered with terse shouts of “No photo! No video!” from security guards.

Why Are Peaches Fuzzy?

Whether you enjoy the velvety skin on peaches or peel it off, you may wonder why they developed fuzz in the first place.

The Real Reason Trader Joe’s Doesn’t Allow Online Orders

The in-person shopping experience is part of the Trader Joe's brand.

The Slightly Morbid Reason We Tap Our Glasses on the Bar Before Doing a Shot

As with regular toasts, it’s not clear exactly when, where, or why this custom began. But these days, most drinkers will cite one of two common reasons behind it.

Where does this literary device come from, and why is it named after a fish?

Where Did the Phrase 'Red Herring' Come From?

The figurative phrase is more than 200 years old, but the obscure etymology of a 'red herring' is a fishy story that is itself a red herring.

Why Are Hyperlinks Blue?

Unpacking the reason hyperlinks are blue requires dipping into early internet history.

Ever wonder what your dog finds so tasty about grass?

Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?

A dog that eats grass frantically may be trying to vomit—but the behavior doesn't automatically warrant a trip to the vet.

The Clever Reason Why Grocery Stores Change Their Layouts So Often

A grocery store’s layout strategy is very calculated—and rearranging inventory is meant to confuse you.

Oven vs. Stove: What's the Difference?

And how does a range fit into all this?

Why Is A Police Officer’s Baton Called a Billy Club?

The baton has been a law enforcement tool for close to two centuries. But did anyone named Billy actually have anything to do with it?

The Reason Your Dog Follows You Everywhere

If your dog follows everywhere you go, don’t be too worried about it. The behavior indicates they see you in a positive light.

Stick to listening to your pre-downloaded podcasts.

Why Can’t I Use My Cell Phone on an Airplane?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) bars the use of all transmitting devices in the off chance that transmissions could interfere with a plane’s navigation and communications equipment and cause system malfunctions.

The Reason Your Dog Loves Stealing Your Shoes

The tendency for dogs to steal, chew, and snuggle your shoe while dozing off is common across breeds, ages, and temperaments.

This dachshund wants you to know you're probably mispronouncing the name of his breed.

The Right Way to Pronounce 'Dachshund'

Dachshund is actually made up of two smaller German words (dachs, which means “badger,” and hund, which means “dog”) and it's not pronounced “dash-hound.”

Know the difference between the bubble waters.

What’s the Difference Between Club Soda, Seltzer, and Sparkling Water?

They all sparkle. They all bubble. And they’re all water. But they're not interchangeable.

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