life's little mysteries
Latest about life's little mysteries

Do you really need to wear a lead apron to get an X-ray?
By Joshua A. Krisch published
Lead aprons were designed to protect reproductive organs from radiation. But are they actually necessary?

Do all animals go through adolescence?
By Amanda Heidt published
All species experience the bodily changes of puberty, but the social lessons that define the shift from childhood to adulthood are more nuanced.

Why do cats knead?
By Charles Q. Choi published
If a cat kneads on your lap, it's likely because it feels safe around you. But why do they knead in the first place?

Why do animals keep evolving into crabs?
By Laurel Hamers published
Crabby bodies are so evolutionarily favorable, they've evolved at least five different times. So why does this process, known as carcinization, keep happening?

What was the longest-lasting civilization?
By Tom Metcalfe published
Is the longest-lasting civilization China, ancient Egypt or Mesopotamia? Here's a look at the evidence for each of these enduring cultures.

What is the 'ship of Theseus' thought experiment?
By Meg Duff published
The Greek writer Plutarch proposed this question: If a ship's planks are replaced over time due to wear and tear until none of the original pieces remain, is it still the same ship?

Why do people like spicy food?
By Donavyn Coffey published
The chemicals that make food spicy don't target taste receptors, but rather temperature receptors in the tongue.

What happens if you skydive through a cloud?
By Amanda Heidt published
What it's like to skydive through a cloud depends in part on the type of cloud, but regardless, you'll likely end up cold and wet.
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