A Problem Squared 119 = Proportions by Bananas and Polygons from Lava
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Oct 13, 2025 Ever wondered if bananas could be the universal measurement standard? The hosts dive into the quirky idea of using bananas for scale while examining the challenges of variability. They explore the fascinating science behind why hexagons are nature's preferred shape, from basalt formations to bee honeycombs. With playful games and thought-provoking discussions, youāll learn about the physics that govern these natural wonders ā all while enjoying some hilarious antics, including a banana hat!
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Meter Game Misestimates
- Matt and Bec play the āmeter gameā to see if they can estimate one meter without looking at the tape measure markings.
- Both miss significantly, showing visualizing a meter by eye is surprisingly difficult.
Any Object Can Be A Unit If Standardized
- Any physical object can serve as a measuring unit if you standardize a specific exemplar and distribute or reproduce it.
- The challenge is consistency and accessibility, not the impossibility of using household items as units.
Origins Of 'Banana For Scale' Meme
- Bec traces the internet meme 'banana for scale' back to early blog and forum posts around 2005ā2013 that used bananas to show object size.
- The meme spread notably via Reddit, spawning a dedicated subreddit and many playful scale-photos.
