BrainStuff

Latest Episodes:

What is the difference between hardwood and softwood? Jan 15, 2014

Show notes

When it comes to differentiating between hardwoods and softwoods, it's not a matter of hardness or density -- it's all about plant reproduction. Marshall explains what angiosperms and gymnosperms are in this episode.

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How do stabilizer bars work? Jan 08, 2014

Show notes

Stabilizer bars are designed to keep your car from rolling when you make sharp turns. Learn more about how these bars work in this episode of BrainStuff.

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How does a CB radio antenna work? Jan 03, 2014

Show notes

A citizens band (CB) radio is often used by truck drivers to communicate while on the road, but how does it work? Marshall Brain gives a detailed explanation of how a CB radio's antenna works in this episode.

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When you have an itch, what's happening under your skin? Jan 01, 2014

Show notes

Skin covers our bodies, so it's very easy for this delicate organ to get irritated. In this episode, Marshall explains why our bodies respond to irritants with an itching sensation -- and why we're programmed to scratch.

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What is a digital signature? Dec 30, 2013

Show notes

A digital signature is a way to authenticate electronic documents. Find out what 'authentic' means in this context -- and how encryption is involved in the authentication process -- in this episode.

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Why do some engines use a dry sump oil system? Dec 27, 2013

Show notes

Most car engines use a wet sump oil system, but some rely on a dry sump system. Find out how a dry sump system works -- and why it's advantageous -- in this podcast from HowStuffWorks.com.

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What are carbide tips? Dec 25, 2013

Show notes

Many cutting tools are made of materials like steel but have carbide tips, which stay sharper longer. Learn more about carbide tips in this podcast from HowStuffWorks.com.

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Is it possible to use a leaf blower as a supercharger? Dec 23, 2013

Show notes

Leaf blowers are convenient, but are they living up to their potential? In this podcast, Marshall examines superchargers, explaining how a leaf blower can (theoretically) perform the same duties. Tune in and learn more about hacking leaf blowers.

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How does a QWERTY keyboard work? Dec 20, 2013

Show notes

The QWERTY keyboard is the standard for most computers today, but why are the letters arranged in such a peculiar way? Learn more about the QWERTY keyboard's unusual layout -- and how it compares to the Dvorak design -- in this episode.

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How does a fiber optic cable work? Dec 18, 2013

Show notes

Fiber optic cables make long-distance telephone communication and Internet access much more affordable and accessible. Get Marshall's explanation of fiber optic cables in this episode of BrainStuff.

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