BrainStuff
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Whether the topic is popcorn or particle physics, you can count on BrainStuff to explore -- and explain -- the everyday science in the world around us.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 11, 2024 • 8min
How Does Aspic Work?
Aspic is savory gelatin that can serve as a sort of showstopping, jiggly salad. Learn the science behind how it's made (and a few guesses about why) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/aspic.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
May 6, 2024 • 12min
Did the Maya Civilization Fall Because of Climate Change?
Exploring the rise and fall of the Maya civilization, focusing on factors like climate change, deforestation, and political unrest. Discusses the impact of deforestation on climate and the potential negative effects of leaders' weather control abilities. Emphasizes the need to safeguard forests for climate resilience.
May 5, 2024 • 5min
BrainStuff Classics: What's the History of Nail Polish?
The nail polishes popular today owe their existence to the automotive industry, but the history of nail colors and varnishes goes back millennia. Learn the history of nail polish in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/nail-care/tips/colorful-history-nail-polish.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
May 4, 2024 • 5min
BrainStuff Classics: Do Dogs Get Embarrassed When We Put Them in Costumes?
Explore the concept of dogs feeling embarrassment when dressed in costumes. Delve into the range of emotions dogs may experience, including empathy and guilt. Emphasize the importance of considering dogs' comfort when dressing them up.
May 3, 2024 • 4min
If a Stop Light Is Stuck on Red, What Can You Do?
If a traffic light seems stuck on red, you're not stuck too. Learn what's legal and what's safe to try in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://auto.howstuffworks.com/car-driving-safety/safety-regulatory-devices/if-light-is-stuck-on-red-are-stuck-too.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
May 2, 2024 • 11min
How Did Benedict Arnold Become So Infamous?
Benedict Arnold is the United States' most famous traitor. Learn about his journey from hero to villain of the Revolutionary War in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/benedict-arnold.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
May 1, 2024 • 6min
How Do Pallas's Cats Work?
These small, wild cats with famously grumpy expressions are uniquely adapted to their frigid high-altitude environtments. Learn more about them in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/pallas-cat.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Apr 30, 2024 • 10min
What's the Difference Between Sociopathy and Psychopathy?
Popular culture throws around the terms 'sociopath' and 'psychopath' a lot, but neither is a real mental health diagnosis. Learn about the actual traits and conditions behind these terms in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/mental-disorders/sociopath-vs-psychopath.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Apr 19, 2024 • 4min
Are Humans Built to Drink Milk After Childhood?
The majority of humans become lactose intolerant as they grow up. Learn how ancient herders changed our digestive gene pool in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/food-nutrition/facts/humans-built-drink-milk-adults.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Apr 18, 2024 • 6min
How Should You Escape a Sinking Car?
https://auto.howstuffworks.com/car-driving-safety/auto-safety-testing/escape-sinking-car.htm; https://auto.howstuffworks.com/car-driving-safety/safety-regulatory-devices/auto-glass.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
