Everyday Science
Can You Put Aluminum Foil in the Microwave?
Usually no. Learn why foil sparks at sharp edges, what the FDA and USDA actually say, and the only situations where a small, smooth piece may be okay.
All Science Articles
Every explainer we have published, newest first.
Everyday Science
Why Do Onions Make You Cry?
Why do onions make you cry? Learn how cutting creates an eye-irritating sulfur gas, what the eye does next, and which onion tips have real evidence.
Everyday Science
Are Bananas Radioactive?
Yes, slightly. Learn what potassium-40 is, where the 0.1 microsievert banana dose comes from, and why it is an imperfect yardstick for everyday radiation.
Everyday Science
How Much Water Does AI Use?
Published per-prompt figures run from 0.26 mL to 519 mL. See why they differ, where the bottle claim came from, and what direct and indirect water mean.
Everyday Science
How Much Energy Does ChatGPT Use?
Estimates for one ChatGPT prompt range from about 0.3 Wh to over 30 Wh. See what changes the number, how estimates fell, and the household math.
Everyday Science
Why Does Ice Float?
Why does ice float? Hydrogen bonds lock water into an open crystal that is about 8% less dense than liquid. See the numbers and what it means for lakes.
Human Body
Why Do We Get Goosebumps?
Why do we get goosebumps? Tiny muscles pull on hairs when nerves fire. Learn why cold, fear and music trigger them, and what mouse research found.