Let's Learn Everything!

97: Sneezing & Parable MythBusters

11 snips
Nov 20, 2025
What makes us sneeze? Discover the fascinating science behind this common reflex, including endorphin release and the mysteries of sneezeless mice. Learn about the quirky triggers like light and even pleasure. Then, dive into Parable MythBusters, where popular metaphors like the boiling frog and wartime statistics are debunked, revealing the surprising truths beneath. The hosts explore the cultural significance of sneezes and challenge misconceptions around Easter Island's moai while shedding light on the importance of critical thinking.
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INSIGHT

Sneezing Is A Full-Body Reflex

  • Sneezing is an involuntary reflex started by nasal sensory neurons and mediated by the brainstem motor response.
  • The diaphragm and intercostal muscles inhale deeply then forcefully expel air through nose and mouth to create a sneeze.
INSIGHT

Sneezes Spread Lots Of Droplets

  • A single sneeze can eject ~40,000 droplets and travel up to eight meters, and can linger in air for minutes.
  • This explains mask use and sneezing-into-elbow hygiene to reduce transmission of pathogens.
INSIGHT

Distinct Neural Pathways For Sneeze

  • Mouse research identified specific nasal sensory neurons and ion channels that trigger sneezing, separate from cough pathways.
  • Genetically removing those neurons produced 'sneezeless' mice, showing distinct neural circuits for sneeze vs cough.
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