BrainStuff

Latest Episodes:

How do big city shell and three-card monte games work? Sep 10, 2014

Show notes

Shell games and three-card monte games are common sights in big cities, but did you know they're scams? Marshall explains the similar principles and tricks behind these "games" -- and why you can't win them -- in this episode.

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What is Low-E glass? Sep 08, 2014

Show notes

Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass is a special, expensive type that blocks out ultraviolet and infrared light. This coated glass can help protect your furniture and improve the energy efficiency of your home, as Marshall Brain explains in this episode.

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Where should I sit to get the best ride on a roller coaster? Sep 05, 2014

Show notes

Each roller coaster car is moved by the cars connected to it, which makes the experience of riding a rollercoaster a bit different in each car. Learn which seat on a roller coaster is best for you, based on science and your personal preferences.

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Is it possible to rescue water-soaked electronics? Sep 03, 2014

Show notes

Is it possible to rescue an electronic device dunked in water? In this episode, Marshall recounts an unfortunate meeting between a GPS device and a dog's water bowl. Tune in to learn whether or not he was able to fix it.

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How did the moon get there? Aug 25, 2014

Show notes

The moon has orbited over human civilization since the dawn of time, but it took us thousands of years to figure out how it actually got there. Tune in as Marshall Brain examines the formation of the moon.

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How do calorie meters work? Aug 22, 2014

Show notes

It's easy to jump on an exercise machine and watch the calorie meter -- but how accurate are these meters? Learn more about calorie meters in this HowStuffWorks podcast

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How does popcorn work? Aug 20, 2014

Show notes

Popcorn is a ubiquitous snack, but there's nothing commonplace about its creation. How does a kernel of corn become a puffed white treat? Find out in this podcast from HowStuffWorks.com.

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How Cooking at High Altitudes Works Aug 18, 2014

Show notes

The boiling point of water decreases as altitude increases -- generally, this temperature decreases by one degree for every 540 feet of altitude. Learn more about cooking at high altitudes in this podcast from HowStuffWorks.

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Why do cats have whiskers? Aug 15, 2014

Show notes

Cat whiskers, also known as "tactile hairs," are very different from a cat's regular body hair. In this episode, Marshall explains how these hairs are unique and what cats use them for.

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How Color Blindness Works Aug 13, 2014

Show notes

Color blind individuals can suffer from an inability to differentiate between hues, and occasionally may not be able to see any colors at all. Learn more about color blindness in this HowStuffWorks podcast.

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