BrainStuff

Latest Episodes:

What is making my backyard sparkle at night? Jan 31, 2014

Show notes

One night, Marshall went outside with a headlight lamp on his head and discovered that his backyard was full of sparkling reflections. What were these sparkles? Discover the surprising answer in this episode.

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What can you do to make yourself really unhappy? Jan 29, 2014

Show notes

There are lots of articles and research on happiness these days, but what about unhappiness? What makes us unhappy, and will avoiding it make us happy? In this episode, Marshall points out three behaviors that are sure to create unhappiness.

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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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