Life's Little Mysteries

There are about 1,350 potentially active volcanoes on Earth. Where are most of these volcanoes located?

For these gregarious animals, 'alone time' is a fantasy.

When and where was chess invented and why is it still so popular around the world?

Sharks are older than dinosaurs and even trees. What's the secret to their long evolutionary success?

Legend has it that the soul weighs 21 grams, but science can neither prove the existence of the soul nor weigh one.

The most popular color can vary by culture, gender and time.

People from food cultures where wine is a daily part of life have famously low rates of heart disease and long lives. But does drinking wine actually help you live longer?

Here's why ancient Egypt's Rosetta Stone has three texts that say the exact same thing.

Here's a look at the world's largest cities by size, population and cultural impact.

Quantum mechanics explains why the electrons can keep spinning indefinitely.

A seashell held to your ear may sound like the ocean, but so does cupping your hand or holding a bowl at the same spot. Here's why.

Here's the science behind how oysters make pearls, and how they were valued historically.

Here's the science behind petrified wood, including what it is, how long it takes to form and whether it's useful in the research world.

What are air pockets and can they cause planes to crash?

Why do we get goosebumps when we're cold, afraid or inspired? Learn why humans sport this evolutionary adaptation.

Here's what happens in people's brains when they use tobacco products.

Can anything crafted by humans be viewed with the naked eye from space, or would astronauts need to use binoculars?

The number of people the planet can sustain depends on both the natural constraints of our environment and human choices.

Egyptian art is easily recognizable, but many cultures used similar approaches to represent people and objects.

Here's what the science says about whether everyone or only those with the right genes can wiggle their ears.