

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

Nov 27, 2023 • 15min
What Is Zionism?
Zionism is the nationalist movement that established Israel and continues to support Judiaism's claim to that aland. It's also one of the most controversial and complex movements of our time. Learn how it got started in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/world-history/zionism.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 26, 2023 • 7min
How Do Marmosets Work?
These social, tree-dwelling monkeys are some of the smallest in the world. Learn more about them in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/marmoset.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 25, 2023 • 5min
BrainStuff Classics: How Did the Inca Knot Language Work?
The Inca never developed a system of writing, but they kept records and told stories through intricate knotwork. Learn what researchers know -- and what they're still looking to find out -- about Inca khipu in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/cultural-traditions/unraveling-khipu-inca-knot-language.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 24, 2023 • 4min
BrainStuff Classics: Does Turkey Really Make You Sleepy?
You may have heard that the tryptophan in turkey causes holiday naps, but it might not be the real culprit. Learn some turkey science in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/edible-innovations/question519.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 23, 2023 • 8min
What's the History of Thanksgiving?
Explore the development and origins of Thanksgiving, debunking myths of the first Thanksgiving. Learn about the Pilgrims' alliance with the Wampanoag Confederation, the role of Squanto, and how Sarah Josepha Hale made Thanksgiving a national holiday. Discover the traditions of the Thanksgiving meal, football games, and the Macy's parade. Delve into the establishment of the National Day of Mourning and historical misconceptions.

Nov 22, 2023 • 8min
How Can Bugs Help Solve Murders?
It's a gross but very useful fact that some insects will eat deceased humans, because scientists can observe those insects to learn about where and when a person died. Learn about forensic entomology in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/forensic-entomology.htm/printableSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 17, 2023 • 8min
How Does the Saguaro Cactus Work?
This cactus is a source of food and construction material for people and animals alike, especially during the dry season in the Sonaran Desert. Learn more about it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/botany/saguaro-cactus.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 16, 2023 • 4min
What Are Those Black Squiggles on Roads?
When asphalt pavement cracks, a squiggle of black sealant can help prevent further damage. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://auto.howstuffworks.com/road-tar-squiggle-drizzle.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 15, 2023 • 5min
Why Do Distant Mountains Appear Blue?
No matter what color(s) mountain ranges may be up close, when they're off in the distance, they appear blue. Learn how our eyes and the atmosphere trick us in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/mountains-appear-blue.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 12, 2023 • 4min
BrainStuff Classics: Why Do Dogs' Paws Smell Like Corn Chips?
Dog enthusiasts sometimes revel in how their pup's paws smell gloriously of corn chips, but what causes this scent? Learn the science behind Frito paws in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/pets/why-dog-paws-smell-fritos-corn-chips.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


