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7fyyrs
how can the fcc enact laws w/o public comment period?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7fyyrs/eli5_how_can_the_fcc_enact_laws_wo_public_comment/
{ "a_id": [ "dqfcq3k" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "There was a public comment period. They let people voice their concerns and publicly thanked them for contributing to the discussion, then binned all the messages and did what they wanted.\n\nResponding to an issue by going 'this is not an import...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
ao98q0
how come when your nose is stopped up, it seems like the snot gets dissolved when you stand?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ao98q0/eli5_how_come_when_your_nose_is_stopped_up_it/
{ "a_id": [ "efz623z", "efzdpvc" ], "score": [ 3, 4 ], "text": [ "I hope I understood your question properly.\n\nThere’s this life hack saying if you do 5-10 quick push-ups you’ll end up “unstuffing” your nose. This happens because doing such a thing requires a lot of oxygen intake, and yo...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
d9t89n
why do the mid-late roman emperors only have a coin portrait of themselves, but not statue like the earlier ones?
_URL_0_
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/d9t89n/eli5why_do_the_midlate_roman_emperors_only_have_a/
{ "a_id": [ "f1l84vo" ], "score": [ 8 ], "text": [ "Several overlapping reasons:\n\n* Some didn't rule long enough to commission and complete statues.\n\n* Some had too many problems to care, but coinage attached to them personally was a necessity.\n\n* Artistic skills declined, so statuary became...
[]
[ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Roman_emperors" ]
[ [] ]
28wqg4
why are cancer survivors at a higher risk to get cancer than anyone else?
Okay, this might seem like a simple question, but I have actually been thinking about it for a while, and require someone's knowledge. So, if cancer is always within us (it's just a mutation of the cells, and they cannot undergo apoptosis), and through surgery, the doctor can take away all of the cancer to essentially...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/28wqg4/eli5_why_are_cancer_survivors_at_a_higher_risk_to/
{ "a_id": [ "cif7ezz" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "Because patient A still has cancer. \nIt's never so simple as removing all of the cancerous cells; what has actually happened is that the physicians have removed all of the cancer *that they are able to find*. The conditions in their body remai...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
5eh6zn
why is peeing in the sink frowned upon when it conserves water
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5eh6zn/eli5_why_is_peeing_in_the_sink_frowned_upon_when/
{ "a_id": [ "dacd1va", "dacdcgo" ], "score": [ 18, 3 ], "text": [ "I'll humour you with an answer. Your sink and toilet have a waste trap that holds water in it to seal your house from the sewer. You can see this in the toilet as the water you piss into. When you flush the toilet you swa...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
sprtm
why do subreddits get more homogenous as they get more subscribers?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/sprtm/eli5_why_do_subreddits_get_more_homogenous_as/
{ "a_id": [ "c4fxvwk", "c4fyxb3", "c4g01jw" ], "score": [ 9, 4, 2 ], "text": [ "As you get more people in a subreddit the power of upvotes and downvotes becomes more pronounced. People with popular opinions get upvoted much more and people with unpopular opinions get downvoted (thi...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "http://www.reddit.com/r/panichistory", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asch_conformity_experiments", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Echo_chamber_(media)", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Group_polarization" ] ]
45qn31
why soldiers tap their magazines on their helmet before loading their rifle.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/45qn31/eli5_why_soldiers_tap_their_magazines_on_their/
{ "a_id": [ "czzirsn", "czzl6kz", "czzlcqw", "czzlv0j", "czzm7gj", "czzn4b2", "czzod3h", "czzorfb", "czzr3bm", "d00nwpa" ], "score": [ 942, 11, 96, 55, 15, 7, 5, 2, 5, 2 ], "text": [ "USMC infantry Marine here, we do it in rea...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://i.imgur.com/ICvK9W7.jpg" ], [] ]
31885r
mapp v. ohio
What was the case about? Like the facts on what happened. Also why is this case so important? They were searching for a felon and found other things? I don't really understand the case at all and it's been keeping me up...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/31885r/eli5mapp_v_ohio/
{ "a_id": [ "cpz85ci" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Importance of the case: Before Mapp v. Ohio, the 4th amendment applied to just the federal government, not state and local police forces. In their decision, the Justices applied the 14th amendment to the 4th amendment, essentially extending the l...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
39363y
why aren't there customization colored car tires for car enthusiasts when rubber is so easily colorized?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/39363y/eli5_why_arent_there_customization_colored_car/
{ "a_id": [ "crzybyf" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Tires are going to get extremely dirty, extremely quickly. Any color but black is going to end up looking like shit. They'd literally only be useful on show cars that aren't actually driven." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
8b7x8a
what is the difference between china's "creepy" social credit system and the us' credit score system?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8b7x8a/eli5_what_is_the_difference_between_chinas_creepy/
{ "a_id": [ "dx4m3uc", "dx4m6wl", "dx4mm72", "dx4ooj7", "dx4udml", "dx4uo6g", "dx528g0" ], "score": [ 20, 2, 6, 3, 5, 4, 2 ], "text": [ "They seem to have the same mechanics, but they measure different things. Do things or exhibit behaviours that th...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
3ajhtd
why do certain textures cause some people irrational discomfort?
For example, whenever someone rubs their hands on their jeans or denim, I cringe hard and have to look away. It has the same effect on me as someone running their nails across a chalkboard. A friend of mine is the same way with people rubbing silk. Yet, these textures are not unpleasant to feel and are not harmful, so ...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3ajhtd/eli5_why_do_certain_textures_cause_some_people/
{ "a_id": [ "csd7vg9", "csdaq89", "csdg77i", "csdjd9f", "csdjr5q", "csdody3", "csds3ml", "cse191a" ], "score": [ 52, 33, 9, 2, 7, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "To my knowledge, it's a trait that is inherited in a minor part of the population, mostly ...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mirror_neuron", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Misophonia", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autonomous_sensory_meridian_response" ], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sensory_processing_disorder#Causes" ], [], [ "http://sharonheller.net/tooloud.php"...
40e0id
"laces are in" in american football
In American football, when the commentators say "the laces are in" when a kicker is making a kick, what does it mean and why does it matter?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/40e0id/eli5laces_are_in_in_american_football/
{ "a_id": [ "cytg1ri", "cytgm0h" ], "score": [ 5, 4 ], "text": [ "It meas the laces on the football are facing the kicker and kicking with laces in is more difficult than with them out assuming you are talking about the Vikings game the last kick the laces were in a during the last kick a...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2fepub
what does it mean to format a flash drive/hard drive, and what exactly is happening?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2fepub/eli5_what_does_it_mean_to_format_a_flash/
{ "a_id": [ "ck8jb6b" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Pieces of information are stored with little flags that say \"here is a piece of information, do not touch this part of the disk\".\n\nSome format options just remove these flags, so programs can then store data in those place without any problem...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2elmhb
why will a fly take off anytime i come near it, but when it's on the other side of a pane of glass even murderous gestures with my hand a millimeter away won't phase it?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2elmhb/eli5_why_will_a_fly_take_off_anytime_i_come_near/
{ "a_id": [ "ck0nr62" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "I'm no authority on the matter, but I assume it has something to do with the movement of air." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
699y8k
how can politicians pass bills etc but exempt themselves from been included in said bills?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/699y8k/eli5_how_can_politicians_pass_bills_etc_but/
{ "a_id": [ "dh4y1tr", "dh4y4ga", "dh56k8k" ], "score": [ 6, 15, 3 ], "text": [ "Is that a procedural question or an ethical question?\n\nProcedurally they have that power. Their salaries are f.ex decided by passing of law - by Congress.\n\nEthically? Republicans don't let ethics r...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
2pfkcl
how can there be no center of the universe if the big bang started from a point smaller than an atom.
I understand the center of the "known" universe is earth. But if spacetime didn't exist before and and it is expanding now, what would be the origin point. And if there cant be an origon point how can I visualise the expansion other than from a single point? Edit - I'm referring to the known universe as the observab...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2pfkcl/eli5_how_can_there_be_no_center_of_the_universe/
{ "a_id": [ "cmw8b03", "cmw8jmb", "cmw8tzv", "cmw8uop", "cmwbgid", "cmwbz33" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2, 2, 5, 2 ], "text": [ "The universe didn't explode outwards in every direction from the big bang, it exploded outwards like a wave or a cone and since its expa...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
5hc6ld
on a molecular level, why does it hurt when we come in contact with boiling water?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5hc6ld/eli5_on_a_molecular_level_why_does_it_hurt_when/
{ "a_id": [ "daz3kns" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "In your skin you have c fibers (type of neuron) that respond to heat/temperature. The neuron will then fire more action potentials as a response to the noxious stimulus (in this case heat). The c fibers synapse onto nerves in the spinal cord whic...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
b43lv5
why are big eyes considered "cute"? (especially in anime/cartoons & animals)
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/b43lv5/eli5_why_are_big_eyes_considered_cute_especially/
{ "a_id": [ "ej3wwc2" ], "score": [ 20 ], "text": [ "It's an example of something called \"paedomorphism,\" or the quality of an adult organism to retain features of its younger state.\n\nIn humans, the eyes stay the same size, which means that in a child's face, the eyes take up a larger amount o...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3355rc
why do states like missouri choose not to accept medicaid expansion funds set aside by the federal government to help cover health insurance costs?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3355rc/eli5_why_do_states_like_missouri_choose_not_to/
{ "a_id": [ "cqhm1dw" ], "score": [ 7 ], "text": [ "To get those funds, the states have to both spend their own money and expand their programs (and long-term liabilities). Many states do not believe that the federal Medicaid funds will be around long-term and don't want to stuck holding the bag ...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2v2ka7
if i am in an elevator, and i hit the down button, and i jump the second the elevator starts moving, will i fall a greater distance than i originally jumped?
Also, If I am in an elevator that is moving down already , and I jump will I fall farther? I feel like my body would be moving at a constant rate, down with the elevator and, me jumping would would just make me fall the same distance? Anyway, this has been hurting my brain now for hours, anyone care to explain? Edit: ...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2v2ka7/eli5_if_i_am_in_an_elevator_and_i_hit_the_down/
{ "a_id": [ "codwg3x", "codwhg7", "codwj00" ], "score": [ 3, 7, 2 ], "text": [ "Yes you would free fall a greater distance, under the assumption falling is when you're feet are not touching the elevator compared to when your feet are touching the elevator you are just going down, n...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
8i6l2j
in gaming, why does it often take as long to go back to menu screen as to load the actual levels?
This always bugs me, even games with seemingly basic main menu graphics can often take quite long to load. I don't refer to the initial startup of the game, when I assume some general assets may need to be loaded, but when going back from a level to the main menu.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8i6l2j/eli5_in_gaming_why_does_it_often_take_as_long_to/
{ "a_id": [ "dyp9agx", "dyp9zzx", "dypb8xg", "dypp139" ], "score": [ 3, 3, 5, 2 ], "text": [ " > I don't refer to the initial startup of the game\n\nBut that is essentially what's happening. When you start the game (load the level, as you put it), all the resources being ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
2037o8
why do some foods(such as pizza or eggplant parmesan) taste better the day after(once reheated) rather than the day they are made?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2037o8/eli5_why_do_some_foodssuch_as_pizza_or_eggplant/
{ "a_id": [ "cfzd5ej", "cfzd7rw", "cfzebru" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Or even cold?", "I know a bunch of recipes that are better the day after! I think a lot of this is the same reason that marinating something makes sense. You give it time for spices and flavors to...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
280k38
if the coriolis effect dictates which way a hurricane spins, does that mean a hurricane traveling from south america to north america changes its rotation?
Does that kill off a hurricane, or does it not change? Is there some reason Hurricanes don't travel up the coast to the US?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/280k38/eli5_if_the_coriolis_effect_dictates_which_way_a/
{ "a_id": [ "ci674fl", "ci67i5v" ], "score": [ 4, 2 ], "text": [ "Hurricanes generally do not do so, for exactly this reason. Hurricanes do hit the US plenty, though.", "I don't believe that any hurricane has ever crossed the equator as far as we know. The Coriolis force is zero at th...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1ixdoe
civil suit payouts
Let's say one individual sues another individual in civil court for $500,000 and wins. Does the plaintiff ever see that money?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1ixdoe/eli5_civil_suit_payouts/
{ "a_id": [ "cb8zdn1" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ " > Does the plaintiff ever see that money?\n\nIt depends! If an individual is suing a corporation, and they have that money in assets available, it's likely they'll get it pretty quickly. However, if the plaintiff is suing an individual without e...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
7crvc7
why can’t aluminum foil burn under just an open flame?
More specifically why can’t it catch fire is what I mean.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7crvc7/eli5_why_cant_aluminum_foil_burn_under_just_an/
{ "a_id": [ "dps5vtc" ], "score": [ 8 ], "text": [ "Aluminum is not flammable. When it reacts with oxygen (like a rusting or burning sort of thing), the aluminum oxide quickly forms a protective coating just a few molecules thick, protecting the rest of the aluminum." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2nhidm
how does a nail/screw get into a tire?
When a nail/screw is on the road it's generally laying flat. How does it maneuver itself into a tire?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2nhidm/eli5_how_does_a_nailscrew_get_into_a_tire/
{ "a_id": [ "cmdmzlg", "cmdobkw" ], "score": [ 2, 3 ], "text": [ "From my experience it's mainly the rears that pick up punctures from road debris due to the from tyre flicking the nail/screw in the air, then the rear catching it at the right angle to puncture it.", "When you roll over...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2j26xi
what is that earpiece that a lot of musicians wear while on stage?
[Example of what I mean](_URL_0_) What does it actually do? What's played through it? How does it benefit the artist on stage?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2j26xi/eli5_what_is_that_earpiece_that_a_lot_of/
{ "a_id": [ "cl7o9oc", "cl7ofh1", "cl85ddp" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "It's an in-ear monitor. It allows them to hear their own voices and instruments, so they can hear what they are doing. If you can't hear what you're doing, you'll sound terrible and you won't even reali...
[]
[ "http://i.imgur.com/cd0YMXt.png" ]
[ [], [], [ "http://en-uk.sennheiser.com/wireless-microphone-live-monitoring-system-ew-300-iem-g3", "http://www.shure.co.uk/products/in_ear_monitoring/psm200" ] ]
ajlm2i
how gorbachev came to the conclusion that the soviet union needed to be dissolved.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ajlm2i/eli5_how_gorbachev_came_to_the_conclusion_that/
{ "a_id": [ "eewj4of", "eewt5u5" ], "score": [ 5, 9 ], "text": [ "The soviet republics have startet to leave the union. First one was Lithuania, the last - Russia. At the end there was a union without any members. It was pretty complicated and bloody, sparked several civil wars.", "You...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2968qw
the holy trinity
Can someone break down the whole concept of the holy trinity for me? I have a hard time conceptualizing it and I don't really understand how God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit are supposed to one thing. Also, was God supposed to have a separate consciousness/mind when Jesus was on the Earth?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2968qw/eli5the_holy_trinity/
{ "a_id": [ "cihtxhs", "cihues7", "cihuhk6", "cii8y0i" ], "score": [ 3, 9, 11, 2 ], "text": [ "They are separate wholes which are simultaneously aspects of each other. It doesn't make logical sense, but it doesn't have to because it is religion.", "It's like a video gam...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
24sa75
how are super pacs not a run-around of election laws to prevent bribery? what is the legal rationale for allowing them?
My understanding is that if some corporation or billionaire wants a favor, they can't just dump millions of dollars into a senator's campaign fund. But they CAN set up a Super PAC for people who are sympathetic to their cause and lobby aggressively for those Senators who do what they like. So it's not that they're "c...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/24sa75/eli5_how_are_super_pacs_not_a_runaround_of/
{ "a_id": [ "cha5mcc", "cha5rll", "cha5uez", "cha5xyt", "cha5znd", "cha6130", "cha63rr", "cha6c5w", "cha7qcw", "cha8cf9" ], "score": [ 5, 25, 2, 16, 4, 2, 2, 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "How are super PACs and lobbying not legally br...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
1hglnc
would it be possible to stimulate or stop pain by using chemicals or electricity?
I'm writing a short sci-fi story and I'd like it to be as grounded in science as possible. Would it be possible to cause pain (without causing damage anywhere outside the nervous system) using an electric device? How would this device work? Would it be possible to block pain using artificial inhibitory neurotransmitt...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1hglnc/eli5_would_it_be_possible_to_stimulate_or_stop/
{ "a_id": [ "cauaeuz", "cauhywx" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "We already stop pain chemically. You probably have acetominophen in your medicine cabnet right now.\n\nIn a more serious answer (preface: I have no formal neurology training), everything you've suggested is feasible. The tra...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Periaqueductal_gray" ] ]
8h8j48
how do we use the silk from insects to create silk based clothes and other items?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8h8j48/eli5_how_do_we_use_the_silk_from_insects_to/
{ "a_id": [ "dyhu6zx" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "The worms make silk to form a cocoon around themselves. Humans then kill the worms and unwind the silk from the cocoon into long fibers. The fibers are spun into thread and then the thread is woven onto cloth." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
1419t6
why is america still at war? how have these reasons changed since when we first invaded?
May sound fairly stupid but I am not very knowledgable on this topic. Thanks to anyone who responds!
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1419t6/eli5_why_is_america_still_at_war_how_have_these/
{ "a_id": [ "c7924cn" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "When we went into Afghanistan we took what was already a pretty unstable regime out of power. This meant that there was already a fair amount of instability to begin with, and we just added to that. \n\nOn top of that instability generally means ...
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[]
[ [] ]
6lxzd1
why isn't amazon being looked at for anti-trust issues?
Thanks everyone for your insightful replies. One question, a few of you have said as long as they don't stifle competition...but they are destroying segments of industry...fully taking down large swaths of retail. How is this good for a healthy economy? Why are we now as a society just ok with "disturbing" segments ...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6lxzd1/eli5_why_isnt_amazon_being_looked_at_for/
{ "a_id": [ "djxg9es", "djxgghq", "djxgi9u", "djxgltp", "djxhhp5" ], "score": [ 33, 8, 12, 2, 5 ], "text": [ "There's nothing illegal about a company having their fingers in many different things, so to speak. Companies are allowed to do business in whatever marketp...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
2r1vhv
how did normal western culture attire switch from semi-formal to informal over the last few decades?
We always hear this, "why don't men wear suits or hats anymore?" But honestly, what brought about the lax appearance in dress? It seems from the post Renaissance times up until the mid to late 1950s, a coat, shirt and trousers were the agreed upon look? When did it start becoming okay to wear blue jeans instead of pant...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2r1vhv/eli5_how_did_normal_western_culture_attire_switch/
{ "a_id": [ "cnbn1xy", "cnbnim1" ], "score": [ 4, 3 ], "text": [ "It's simply the way culture moves. What was once a fad becomes a permanent fixture in society, and what was once permanent fixture simply fades away. The way I see it, teenagers find some new way to dress, which is released ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
3qs7pr
why can a minor consent to sex with another minor, but not an adult?
When two 13 year olds decide to have sex, no one bats an eye, but if a 13 year old decides to have sex with a 40 year old, then the minor is a victim and can't consent. Why?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3qs7pr/eli5_why_can_a_minor_consent_to_sex_with_another/
{ "a_id": [ "cwhvoid", "cwhwfx5", "cwhwjlx" ], "score": [ 6, 5, 5 ], "text": [ "In some states, they can't, and if two minors have sex they are both guilty of statutory rape. In those that they can, it's because of the difference in power. Basically, two young people are on a lev...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
11b41g
why is abortion something politicians talk about?
I don't understand why views are even discussed if the one person who is (maybe?) against it has come out saying he won't change the law. Doesn't that make it a null issue then? Please explain, like I'm five.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/11b41g/why_is_abortion_something_politicians_talk_about/
{ "a_id": [ "c6kwae2", "c6ky96c", "c6kyljj", "c6kzb2x" ], "score": [ 19, 3, 6, 2 ], "text": [ "Abortion is very polarising and emotional to many people whether or not it directly affects them (abortion doctors have been shot by protesters in the past as an example). So much...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wedge_issue" ], [] ]
8bdcai
how did humans end up developing allergies to synthetic substances?
Things like latex allergies and such confuse me
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8bdcai/eli5_how_did_humans_end_up_developing_allergies/
{ "a_id": [ "dx5ud30" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "When you develop an allergy, it has nothing to do with whether the allergen is found in nature or not. All that matters is that it is something not found inside your own body. \n\nAn allergy is your body's immune system reacting to something harm...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
99ceov
how does your stomach maintain its acidity when you eat and drink all day long?
Follow up question: Where does your body get the acid from since it's considerably more acidic than anything you eat or drink throughout the day?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/99ceov/eli5_how_does_your_stomach_maintain_its_acidity/
{ "a_id": [ "e4mnn7z", "e4mseh1" ], "score": [ 6, 2 ], "text": [ "You have parietal cells in your stomach that create hydrochloric acid, caused by the hormone pepsin. I think this keeps the pH of the stomach around 2. Your pancreas then releases pancreatic juice after coming out of the sto...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
47w4r7
what is the effect of waiting 10 or so seconds after turning a computer off before turning it on again?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/47w4r7/eli5_what_is_the_effect_of_waiting_10_or_so/
{ "a_id": [ "d0fw7bh", "d0fwom0", "d0g2b05", "d0g2k01", "d0gbtfg", "d0gd80n" ], "score": [ 13, 530, 19, 3, 4, 2 ], "text": [ "It used to be because you needed to let the hard drive spin down. I don't think it's much of an issue anymore. ", "It takes a fe...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
a0nuwb
why are there so many abandoned washing machines, tires, refrigerators, shopping carts, etc. in the middle of the woods/the desert/the middle of nowhere? do people actually haul these items to desolate places just to dump them or is there another phenomenon going on here?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/a0nuwb/eli5why_are_there_so_many_abandoned_washing/
{ "a_id": [ "eaj2vpq", "eaj2zzz", "eaj3hl2" ], "score": [ 8, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Sadly it’s a lot easier for most people to dump off those items somewhere instead of the hassle to deal with them properly. Lots of landfills, especially busy or full ones, will charge you by the pound ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
9m5fcu
what is the process for movies to film scenes at major sites that are usually crawling with activity?
Film crew of reddit how are scenes filmed like in 28 weeks later when the two kids are traveling across the bridge and there’s no other cars or even boats moving for that matter? Or another example is the amazing spider man 2 fight scene in Times Square. Just curious how hard it is to do this and what’s the process to...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9m5fcu/eli5_what_is_the_process_for_movies_to_film/
{ "a_id": [ "e7c066n", "e7c09hv", "e7c0vy1", "e7c2b7o", "e7c4tc6", "e7cfkcg" ], "score": [ 17, 11, 2, 8, 7, 7 ], "text": [ "Money. They just pay into the local economy and get to shoot there. The city area will get notified in advance. City workers help clos...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCdRFMp8Xwo" ] ]
7uhvuo
why does super moon looks much bigger in usa than here in nepal?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7uhvuo/eli5_why_does_super_moon_looks_much_bigger_in_usa/
{ "a_id": [ "dtke0on", "dtkfr63", "dtl7u5x" ], "score": [ 12, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Photos are misleading. You can make the moon appear as big or as small as you want it to be, depending on which lens you are using (specifically depending on the focal length). If you zoom in it makes ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c8/Lunar_perigee_apogee.png" ] ]
82yhkp
relationship between hypertonic and hypotonic cells or solutions - osmosis
I'm still having trouble grasping the concept of the difference between hyper and hypotonic. For example, if a dialysis bag with a 0.5 M solution inside the bag were placed in a 0.25 M sucrose solution, would that gain or lose water? I tried googling for answers but it still doesn't quite make sense to me.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/82yhkp/eli5_relationship_between_hypertonic_and/
{ "a_id": [ "dvdq7gq", "dvdslh2" ], "score": [ 5, 2 ], "text": [ "Hyper = too much.\n\nHypo = too little.\n\nConcentrations of gas, liquid, or dissolved solid mixed in any gas or liquid (provided they *can* mix) will naturally flow towards equilibrium. So if you put a bunch of saltwater ov...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
5xg7by
what makes snapchat worth so much?
28 billion $ pal.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5xg7by/eli5_what_makes_snapchat_worth_so_much/
{ "a_id": [ "dehttgl" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Social media are giant advertising networks as much as they are used for us to send stupid videos to each other.\n\nFilters that advertise something, actual ads in app, companies paying to send snaps to everyone, and so on are what contribute to ...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://fortune.com/2015/02/19/snapchat-worth-19-billion-more/" ] ]
71g9i7
why can ionic compounds not conduct electricity, but aqueous ionic compounds can?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/71g9i7/eli5_why_can_ionic_compounds_not_conduct/
{ "a_id": [ "dnajx2x" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Ionic compounds cannot conduct electricity as a solid. The ions are in a strict crystal lattice and there is no ability for electricity to easily flow through it.\n\nIf you melt the ionic compound, it conducts electricity even better than it bein...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
34qpcb
why do boxers such as mayweather/pacquiao who are supposedly the best in the world, not compete in the olympics?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/34qpcb/eli5_why_do_boxers_such_as_mayweatherpacquiao_who/
{ "a_id": [ "cqx5dio" ], "score": [ 10 ], "text": [ "Floyd Mayweather was in the Summer Olympics back in 1996 in Atlanta, where he \"only\" won the bronze. Only amateurs, which Mayweather was back then, are allowed to compete." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3naaqy
how can i estimate correctly the space between my car and the ones around it?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3naaqy/eli5_how_can_i_estimate_correctly_the_space/
{ "a_id": [ "cvm93m7" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Honestly the only way to get better at estimating is experience. There's not exactly a way to fix your estimation abilities through a text post." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
69xk7h
many conservatives, when arguing against islam, cite surveys that claim that a significant number of muslims support suicide bombing, stoning, jihad, and all other sorts of scary-sounding things. how valid are these claims?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/69xk7h/eli5_many_conservatives_when_arguing_against/
{ "a_id": [ "dha3p90", "dha58un", "dha5gsi", "dhamycm", "dhaxa64", "dhb04nl" ], "score": [ 30, 16, 5, 7, 5, 3 ], "text": [ "While I'm not really in a position to judge these claims myself, their source is [this](_URL_2_) collection of surveys done by the Pew...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://www.pewresearch.org/methodology/international-survey-research/", "https://www.reddit.com/r/NeutralPolitics/comments/3sv9a0/is_pew_research_a_reliable_source_of_information/", "http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2017/02/27/muslims-and-islam-key-findings-in-the-u-s-and-around-the-world/" ], ...
1ndfud
why is the world war i called a "world war"?
My History class started studying the subject, and the teacher mentioned that the US didn't want to get too involved when punishments for Germany were being discussed because the war took place in Europe. But that got me thinking, why is it called a "world war" if pretty much all the fighting was done by European count...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1ndfud/eli5_why_is_the_world_war_i_called_a_world_war/
{ "a_id": [ "cchj6fm", "cchjdpw", "cchkjxz", "cchljkb" ], "score": [ 3, 10, 6, 4 ], "text": [ "The fighting happened all over the world, but \"World War\" is undoubtedly a very Eurocentric name. There isn't really any logic to it, they just sort of considered \"all the majo...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20090605040957/nations/images/4/4f/WWI-re.png" ], [], [ "http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4f/WWI-re.png" ] ]
6yki3q
how do we live so long? there are so many things that can kill us. how do most of us end up living 80+ years?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6yki3q/eli5_how_do_we_live_so_long_there_are_so_many/
{ "a_id": [ "dmo2sym" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "There's no complex concept here. \n\n1. We're good at healing when injured.\n2. Our brains are good at thinking ahead and deciding what things are dangerous.\n3. Sometimes we just get lucky.\n4. As a social species, we tend to protect each other....
[]
[]
[ [] ]
cxt13v
the core of the earth is radioactive. why can't we despose our radioactive waste in very deep magma?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/cxt13v/eli5_the_core_of_the_earth_is_radioactive_why/
{ "a_id": [ "eyn867n", "eyn9f3o", "eyna9gt" ], "score": [ 10, 7, 6 ], "text": [ "AFAIK we currently do not dig that deep and storing waste in vulcanos would be risky. Imagine an eruption where on top of lava and ashes the volcano also throws up plutonium into the air.", "Basica...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2BMJwM0_MA" ] ]
21fngs
journalism ethics
How does it work? If a source says "off the record", what's stopping the journalist from naming the source?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/21fngs/eli5_journalism_ethics/
{ "a_id": [ "cgck3je", "cgckde6" ], "score": [ 12, 4 ], "text": [ "Nothing, really, other than never ever being able to get a source to go off the record ever again, and also making it very hard for other reporters from their organization to do the same.\n\nThere is great value in off-the-...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shield_laws_in_the_United_States#State_laws", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plame_affair#Judith_Miller", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Protection_of_sources" ] ]
1nqsvf
must money circulate? why?
I often hear that it would be bad for the economy if people save their money under their mattress instead of (indirectly, through banks) loaning their money. This doesn't seem to make sense to me, as the deflation created by stuffing the mattress should counteract the "lack of" circulating money. So essentially, is it ...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1nqsvf/eli5_must_money_circulate_why/
{ "a_id": [ "ccl54zj" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "When you put money in a bank, the bank can use that money to make a loan. Loans include business lines of credit, mortgages, etc. By allowing other people access to this money, it increases economic activity. This increases money circulation, ...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2auf4g
why would i use a vps server?
Why do people have VPS servers? What do they do/ what can one do with it?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2auf4g/eli5_why_would_i_use_a_vps_server/
{ "a_id": [ "ciyv381", "ciyvb5v", "ciyxo9h", "ciyyg8s", "ciz3cyo" ], "score": [ 4, 6, 3, 4, 2 ], "text": [ "A VPS server is similar to a regular server, running its own OS (Operating system, like Windows/Mac OSX/Linux). However, unlike a regular server, A VPS(Virtua...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
9c2mtz
if a human child was somehow raised up by animals, would the child be able to communicate with the animals?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9c2mtz/eli5_if_a_human_child_was_somehow_raised_up_by/
{ "a_id": [ "e57iilc", "e57ilt0", "e57io6x" ], "score": [ 5, 8, 3 ], "text": [ "Only as much as an animal can communicate. And they usually only communicate things like \"I'm angry\", \"I like this\", \"I want to put my dick in you\". And they use body language a lot. No verbal com...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
9ksshk
why is easier to separate paper if my fingers are wet?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9ksshk/eli5_why_is_easier_to_separate_paper_if_my/
{ "a_id": [ "e71j3vj", "e71j655" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Paper on paper has more fiction than paper on skin. So if you rub two sheets of paper with your finger, your finger will slide. \n\nPaper on wet skin has more friction than paper on paper. So of you rub two sheets with a we...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
3d2sab
if you were in a space ship traveling at the speed of light (or extremely close to it) could you walk or even move in the direction of the space ship's motion?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3d2sab/eli5_if_you_were_in_a_space_ship_traveling_at_the/
{ "a_id": [ "ct19r00", "ct1aiap", "ct1b0ny", "ct1blq8", "ct1egmo", "ct1ic5n", "ct1mjw5" ], "score": [ 98, 6, 2, 2, 48, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Yes. From your perspective, it would appear to work normally.\n\nLet's say light speed was 60 mph just to make i...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
o5hie
why do so many people believe in the illuminati?
Despite the fact that Illuminati believers are always going on about how the Illuminati are 'hiding' themselves, a lot of people seem to believe in them. I don't get it. When did it become so common to believe in them? And why?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/o5hie/eli5_why_do_so_many_people_believe_in_the/
{ "a_id": [ "c3eimok", "c3eioqk", "c3ejtz5", "c3ek1nv", "c3elb5v", "c3eoff7", "c3eofmg", "c3eoswb", "c50qi6g" ], "score": [ 29, 2, 11, 52, 2, 3, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "People often want someone to blame for their problems. \"It's not m...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
2505c2
what exactly do photons do?
All I know is that they're an elementary particle.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2505c2/eli5_what_exactly_do_photons_do/
{ "a_id": [ "chcdo9j" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Photons are particles of an electromagnetic phenomena, in other words, photons=light, microwaves, X-ray, UV light,Gamma ray and infrared light." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
5m9a36
what is executive order 13673, fair pay and safe workplaces?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5m9a36/eli5_what_is_executive_order_13673_fair_pay_and/
{ "a_id": [ "dc1sgya" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "It sounds like the part that applies to you is part II of the order: \"The second part of the Order creates new paycheck-transparency protections for workers on Federal contracts. This part, section 5 of the Order, contains two separate requireme...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
cp4hvq
how does data storing works? how exactly does a piece of metal and plastic hold all my movies and pictures on it?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/cp4hvq/eli5_how_does_data_storing_works_how_exactly_does/
{ "a_id": [ "ewn4y8f", "ewn8rjp" ], "score": [ 3, 10 ], "text": [ "Depends on what method you use, the farther you go the more complicated it gets.\n\nAn early method i know how to explain is the phonograph. Basically if you wanted to record a piece of music you would set a disk spinning a...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
3ranqt
why are flat cords supposedly tangle proof?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3ranqt/eli5why_are_flat_cords_supposedly_tangle_proof/
{ "a_id": [ "cwmg9u5" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "Cords that are round are equally likely to bend in any direction. Flat cords do not bend as easily in the longways directions, so the likelihood of tanglage is greatly reduced. " ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
8rfrzd
why can municipalities not just convert garbage programs into recycling programs?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8rfrzd/eli5_why_can_municipalities_not_just_convert/
{ "a_id": [ "e0qyrk9", "e0qytkp" ], "score": [ 3, 3 ], "text": [ "They certainly can. It takes labor, equipment, and money. Most municipalities don't have extra workers, equipment, and money sitting around.", "Many municipalities offer both garbage and recycling programs. But not all ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
5o4xjo
why does mold grow on "dead" fruits but not on the ones still on the tree?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5o4xjo/eli5_why_does_mold_grow_on_dead_fruits_but_not_on/
{ "a_id": [ "dcgq0p6", "dcgtmeb", "dchp6u7" ], "score": [ 3, 11, 3 ], "text": [ "It does grow on the ones still on the plant. You just don't see it as much, because you have a lot more experience with picked fruits than you do with those still on the plants. Go strawberry picking t...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
bpwnfe
how rms (root mean square) works in audio production.
I'm a video editor with a moderately decent understanding of how audio editing works, but I've recently been tasked with trying to put some audio recordings on Audible and got stumped (like really stumped) with two of Audible's requirements: Each file must measure between -23dB and -18dB RMS. & #x200B; Each file...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/bpwnfe/eli5_how_rms_root_mean_square_works_in_audio/
{ "a_id": [ "enye44m" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "RMS is a way of measuring AC level. The alternates are numerical average level of the absolute value (not often used) or peak level (peak=1.414 x RMS). RMS is useful in power electronics because 1 V RMS gives the same power in a resistor as 1 V D...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3ehxd5
when people find "unfinished" bits of code in a videogame, why was it left there in the first place?
To expand, I always hear about people finding unused character animations, sounds, etc. in the codes of games. Wouldn't it save a lot of memory to just delete these things altogether? Why are these unused things still left in there?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3ehxd5/eli5_when_people_find_unfinished_bits_of_code_in/
{ "a_id": [ "ctf3v9x", "ctf3w0y", "ctf46dy" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "In short, some are because they like to leave \"easter eggs\", most are because Software Engineers and Computer Scientist are lazy, and the rest are because the second one turned into the first one beca...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
1yib98
why can't cgi create a realistic looking person?
It doesn't make sense to me. Obviously, I know there's something I don't understand about cgi, but it just seems to me that this should be possible. Is it the textures? Is it the resolution? Even old SD video has a low resolution and humans look like humans at that resolution. We can even make photoshopped digital...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1yib98/eli5_why_cant_cgi_create_a_realistic_looking/
{ "a_id": [ "cg68yg6", "cfkrjhw", "cfkroqw", "cfks7ei", "cfkvvov" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 13, 8, 2 ], "text": [ "I came to ELI5 to ask about this. Good thing I used the search function. I wanted to ask about it die to a new video game trailer. \n\n_URL_0_", "Skin is...
[]
[ "http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zw97LIBGbR4" ]
[ [ "http://i.imgur.com/BlJMrV0.jpg" ], [], [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uncanny_valley" ], [] ]
40g51j
what's the deal with "laces in"?
As a non-American who occasionally watches NFL (and has seen Ace Ventura), I've always wondered what the big deal is about having the laces out. Topical today because of the Seahawks game.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/40g51j/eli5_whats_the_deal_with_laces_in/
{ "a_id": [ "cytwd0z", "cytwg2h" ], "score": [ 2, 4 ], "text": [ "Are you referring to Football?", "It's from the movie 'Ace Ventura: Pet Detective' where a shamed former kicker who missed a game-winning field goal placed the blame on the star-QB/kick-holder because he didn't rotate th...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
57v3bc
why is youth unemployment in spain so high?
Is it because of technological unemployment?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/57v3bc/eli5_why_is_youth_unemployment_in_spain_so_high/
{ "a_id": [ "d8v919w", "d8vcn7x", "d8vfrvb" ], "score": [ 5, 3, 5 ], "text": [ "Education is not that good compared to other European countries, foreign languages learning is an issue. Spaniards loved to buy houses and get mortgages that lead, together with global subprime problem,...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
5z772k
why does the air above a campfire always look wavy and distorted?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5z772k/eli5_why_does_the_air_above_a_campfire_always/
{ "a_id": [ "devsz05" ], "score": [ 9 ], "text": [ "4 Years old post, but it is due to refraction and differences in air density apparently\n\n_URL_0_" ] }
[]
[]
[ [ "https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/15bskg/eli5_why_does_heat_distort_light/" ] ]
bdunqc
how do transoceanic fiber cables transmit such massive amounts of data coherently through one cable? even telephone lines for that matter.
So there are obviously main highways and branches, but how can all that data from many sources come coherently through a single main cable at once without getting jumbled up with other data trying to do the same? My understanding is that it's transmitted with light/electricity in binary, so with so much source data t...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/bdunqc/eli5_how_do_transoceanic_fiber_cables_transmit/
{ "a_id": [ "el0traj", "el0v15r" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Well, for starters, an Atlantic cable is indeed multiple individual strands.\n\nLook at one strand first. What you send into it is a kind of light. Often on a frequency that you can't see with your eyes. But also on frequenc...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
3l6qxx
if the technology were to come about where you "insert your consciousness into a computer program" in order to live forever; it wouldn't actually be you right? rather it would just be a copy?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3l6qxx/eli5_if_the_technology_were_to_come_about_where/
{ "a_id": [ "cv3m82i", "cv3oiow" ], "score": [ 6, 3 ], "text": [ "Basically what such a machine would do (hypothetically) is read what's in your brain and encode it in software. You're correct that it would not be the consciousness currently mediated by your human body.\n\nWhen you downloa...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
3h8gv4
if speed is relative, why does the twin in the spaceship comeback older than the twin on earth? aren't they both moving at the same speed from the perspective of the other
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3h8gv4/eli5_if_speed_is_relative_why_does_the_twin_in/
{ "a_id": [ "cu562ne", "cu56s3p" ], "score": [ 4, 3 ], "text": [ "The twin in the spaceship has to accelerate to leave and come back. Acceleration isn't relative.", "Someone can correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe the key point is *acceleration* or speed *change* relative to the obs...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
pysa9
why copyrights should expire
It seems to me that since intellectual property is well, *property*, it should last forever. Physical property doesn't expire after 70 years.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/pysa9/eli5_why_copyrights_should_expire/
{ "a_id": [ "c3tarxs", "c3tdd0g", "c3tde8y" ], "score": [ 7, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Let's say you're in kindergarten and you draw a picture of a purple bunny rabbit. The bunny rabbit is popular, so you can sell copies of your drawing. Obviously, if Timmy down the street were to copy yo...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
rr21x
what actually is snot (nose mucus)?
I have a cold and have expended a vast quantity of tissues and made me wonder what the stuff coming out of my nose actually is.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/rr21x/what_actually_is_snot_nose_mucus/
{ "a_id": [ "c47xzop", "c47ycdk", "c47z3s0", "c480h5z", "c4817xt", "c4834wl", "c486qaw" ], "score": [ 3, 431, 9, 3, 2, 5, 2 ], "text": [ "I also wondered about this and if whatever makes the snot makes other bodily discharges too...?", "Your body...
[]
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
1o47g9
why are women more likely to have an irrational fear of rodents and insects in-doors?
Although not a black and white rule, I tend to find women are more likely than men to have an irrational fear of seemingly harmless rodents and insects when they are found indoors. Why is this so and is this a cultural or genetic trait?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1o47g9/eli5_why_are_women_more_likely_to_have_an/
{ "a_id": [ "ccoo04w", "ccopo3k" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ " I'd say educational. If a person is not taught what is harmless and what is not, they can easily be scared by a harmless spider. Also, if other adults show fear of say cockroaches, the child growing up who sees this fear di...
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[ [], [] ]
aiuj5d
if an atom is so profoundly tiny that only recently we could actually "see" them, with even sem's being nowhere near powerful enough, how were we able to confirm sub-elementary particles such as quarks existed, aside from inferring their existence via mathematics? can we "see" them now, too?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/aiuj5d/eli5_if_an_atom_is_so_profoundly_tiny_that_only/
{ "a_id": [ "eeqlywn", "eeqq08c" ], "score": [ 6, 3 ], "text": [ "Quarks pop out of the math. They are far, far too small to be probed (\"seen\"). In fact, quarks exist only in the sense that the Standard Model requires them, but if the SM is supplanted by another, more complete theory t...
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[]
[ [], [] ]
fb1o15
how do isp's sell your data and why
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/fb1o15/eli5_how_do_isps_sell_your_data_and_why/
{ "a_id": [ "fj1obnr", "fj1ohwg" ], "score": [ 6, 3 ], "text": [ "It’s incredibly useful for anyone interested in marketing anything, tells any company interested in the data exactly who their target audience is.", "As of 2019 they could sell \"non-identifying\", haven't checked since....
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
uo34b
cramp.
How does cramp just happen? I get it in my feet and thighs quite often. How can I stop/prevent it from happening so frequently?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/uo34b/eli5_cramp/
{ "a_id": [ "c4x1nnd", "c4x2stz" ], "score": [ 2, 3 ], "text": [ "The muscle contracts and sticks that way. \nStretch, drink more water and eat bananas. \nYour muscles need to be trained to work together, they need lubrication, and they needs certain chemicals to control movement. \nIf ...
[]
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[ [], [] ]
9jkkd3
how can you gain weight from drinking coca cola zero if it contains zero calories?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9jkkd3/eli5_how_can_you_gain_weight_from_drinking_coca/
{ "a_id": [ "e6s7eo4", "e6s7fat", "e6s7hpv", "e6sc0fh" ], "score": [ 12, 2, 7, 3 ], "text": [ "You can't gain weight from the drink. However, some studies suggest it will increase your appetite for other sweets, leading you to eat more sweet stuff and gain weight.\n", "...
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[]
[ [], [], [], [ "https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?fr=101.60" ] ]
2i41rx
why does holding a spoon in my mouth stop me from tearing up when cutting onions?
When my father-in-law suggested I place a spoon in mouth and hold it there while cutting onions, I thought it seemed like a dumb old wive's tale. But I did it, and it worked. WHAT IS THIS SORCERY?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2i41rx/eli5_why_does_holding_a_spoon_in_my_mouth_stop_me/
{ "a_id": [ "ckylo9d", "ckymf0f" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Either it's the placebo effect or you're a wizard", "In one hour: \"LPT: Hold a spoon in your mouth when cutting onions to stop yourself from tearing up.\"" ] }
[]
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[ [], [] ]
5wp7x3
why does the body allow us to sleep in positions that cause us pain in the morning? such as waking up with sore necks, arms, etc.?
Shouldn't we unconsciously realize that it is uncomfortable and re-adjust?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5wp7x3/eli5_why_does_the_body_allow_us_to_sleep_in/
{ "a_id": [ "debyl84", "dec2ics", "dec4wlx", "dec5e62", "dec9tsy", "dec9wff", "decbh3v", "dechxeu", "deckkqq", "decmopb", "decr6da", "decve39", "decwagj", "ded6pfe", "ded8v8x", "dedanpw", "dedb0a7" ], "score": [ 59, 8, 35, 580, ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
8bbhtd
what determines the number of eggs a woman is born with?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8bbhtd/eli5_what_determines_the_number_of_eggs_a_woman/
{ "a_id": [ "dx5edby", "dx5fsfg", "dx5xlsg", "dx67dxn" ], "score": [ 6, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "They are born with far more eggs than their body can ever use. About two million actually. ", "It's around 2 million, but if you are looking for the exact number, it is just ge...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
48kurh
why are stellar objects on a plane
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/48kurh/eli5_why_are_stellar_objects_on_a_plane/
{ "a_id": [ "d0kf832", "d0kfgey" ], "score": [ 6, 3 ], "text": [ "2 reasons. Orbits occur around a single point, and rotation occurs around an axis. \n\nWhen something orbits, specifically when many things orbit, they all orbit around one point, the center of mass of the system. So, lets i...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Protoplanetary_disk" ] ]
4dvvn0
the difference between dynamic, condenser and ribbon mics?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4dvvn0/eli5_the_difference_between_dynamic_condenser_and/
{ "a_id": [ "d1utscr", "d1utwsy", "d1uu2wk", "d1uv0qa", "d1uvb9i" ], "score": [ 8, 113, 2, 15, 5 ], "text": [ "Dynamic - has a small Diaphragm that is moved by sound pressure levels. Usually the most durable mic. Not great for capturing high frequencies.\n\nCondens...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://goo.gl/TEFdo0", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electromagnetic_induction", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capacitance" ], [], [], [] ]
45phn1
how does light and spacetime work?
Given all the buzz surrounding the LIGO experiment I started looking more into geavitational waves. I understand how the interferometer works, I understand that when space in stretched or compressed they would expect to see a change in the phases of two waves. I get that. What I don't get is why this is happening. Mind...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/45phn1/eli5_how_does_light_and_spacetime_work/
{ "a_id": [ "czzex03" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "There are many previous posts covering this topic, and I strongly encourage you to try the Search function. You may find that they sufficiently answer your question.\n\nHowever, I've approved this post since it is a slightly different emphasis." ...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
71i4ve
what is the dirac's equation, what is it for, and what do all the symbols mean?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/71i4ve/eli5_what_is_the_diracs_equation_what_is_it_for/
{ "a_id": [ "dnawn14", "dnaxrkp" ], "score": [ 2, 4 ], "text": [ "I doubt that you really can give an ELI5 answer to this question (as defined in the sidebar), but I'll give it a try. I am a physicist, and I have a basic understanding of quantum mechanics in particular and relativity in ge...
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[ [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dirac_equation" ], [ "https://ih0.redbubble.net/image.207059937.3139/flat,800x800,075,f-c,0,75,800,331.u1.jpg" ] ]
d2zy81
how do you do metric conversions?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/d2zy81/eli5_how_do_you_do_metric_conversions/
{ "a_id": [ "ezxt8fs", "ezxtgd9" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "You’re doing it backwards. Start thinking in metric as it’s the SI standard. All US measurements are measured against their official metric equivalents. They are stored in lookup tables for the common unit types.\n\nUse y...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
8c2zts
why does gasoline pricing produce such acute price sensitivity in consumers, despite the negligible differences in totals over filling an entire tank?
Edit: To clarify, the question is about why people travel further to a distant gas station for a few cents per litre saving in gas, when those savings are mostly offset by the extra time, effort, and fuel used to get there.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8c2zts/eli5_why_does_gasoline_pricing_produce_such_acute/
{ "a_id": [ "dxbosuy", "dxbplpc", "dxbw5nz", "dxc56vz", "dxc5g41", "dxc5r8h", "dxc6ad2", "dxc85cc", "dxc8gms", "dxc8iss", "dxc8z6x", "dxc9kml", "dxca6je", "dxcc1n6", "dxccpca", "dxckivp", "dxd12bi" ], "score": [ 6, 196, 13, 48, ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1P2RSlt7ccg45fvygb0ztpqSCT8zi912wuQYjYd4DGqY/edit?usp=sharing" ], [], [], [], [ "http://money.cnn.com/2016/07/08/autos/aaa-cheap-gasoline/index.html" ], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
2i9z0t
what is a coma and can it be fixed?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2i9z0t/eli5_what_is_a_coma_and_can_it_be_fixed/
{ "a_id": [ "cl08hhx" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Coma is a very broad term in the usual lay-men usage, but a common way to put is that it is a state wherein a person is unconscious for more than six hours. They can't be awakened and unable to respond normally to light, pain, and sound. The stat...
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[]
[ [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glasgow_Coma_Scale", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Level_of_consciousness" ] ]
7u6zke
why do news anchors/cameramen still use bulky shoulder mount cameras when camera technology has advanced so far with things like gopros and their video quality?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7u6zke/eli5_why_do_news_anchorscameramen_still_use_bulky/
{ "a_id": [ "dti3f9x", "dti4odk", "dti7dzw", "dti7w8v", "dti92k4", "dti9tan", "dti9x2c", "dtia0dp", "dtiahxn", "dtiai9o", "dtiapek", "dtiaudu", "dtiazae", "dtib41g", "dtib72n", "dtibmau", "dtibmho", "dtibq9g", "dtibrgd", "dtibrqs", "d...
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[ [], [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6bos2ZTGNZc", "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/06/Colorcomp.jpg" ], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "https://www.journalism.co.uk/news/mobile-journalism-sky-news-reporters-broadcast-ready-in-90-seconds-/s2/a555282/" ...
5v6gb9
what degree of regulation does the financial sector currently have after the great recession?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5v6gb9/eli5_what_degree_of_regulation_does_the_financial/
{ "a_id": [ "ddzmujb" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "I'm going to assume you largely mean the U.S. , since responses vary greatly by country.\n\nBy far the biggest change was the introduction of the Dodd-Frank Act (for now, anyway. The current administration is looking to repeal it. If it does get ...
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[ [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dodd%E2%80%93Frank_Wall_Street_Reform_and_Consumer_Protection_Act" ] ]
dq6t4s
why are we more likely to survive a heavy impact while fainted than when we’re conscious?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dq6t4s/eli5_why_are_we_more_likely_to_survive_a_heavy/
{ "a_id": [ "f60vddm", "f60vlkf", "f60w411", "f613zws" ], "score": [ 2, 3, 6, 3 ], "text": [ "Because while you're awake your body will brace for the impact. Where as when you're unconscious your body basically forms around the impact.", "When you're unconscious, your b...
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
y4vx9
how come we are legally adults and we can be tried as adults if we can't still buy alcohol?
Just wondering that always puzzled me
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/y4vx9/eli5how_come_we_are_legally_adults_and_we_can_be/
{ "a_id": [ "c5scnfb", "c5scw7r", "c5shdaa", "c5t254x" ], "score": [ 10, 6, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "There's some evidence that alcohol abuse is still significantly more harmful at 18 than, say, 30. Because of this, the federal government made a large amount of highway funding co...
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
92crdm
if it costs you points of credit for businesses to pull your reports how do credit monitoring services offer this without affecting your credit score?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/92crdm/eli5_if_it_costs_you_points_of_credit_for/
{ "a_id": [ "e34oirb" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "There are two types of credit pulls - \"soft\" pulls are those that get you the pre-qualification offers, etc. and they don't affect your credit scores. These are the kinds of pulls that monitoring services not owned by the three bureaus use. (T...
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[ [] ]
1wuprh
why fruits get juicier after ripening after they have been cut off the tree
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1wuprh/eli5_why_fruits_get_juicier_after_ripening_after/
{ "a_id": [ "cf5knyv", "cf5sp2p" ], "score": [ 6, 3 ], "text": [ "Many fruits do not need the tree to ripen; they have their own energy store (their sugars and starches) and the chemicals necessary to ripen are already present. ", "Well usually the fruit has a seed and the rest of the ...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/origin-of-fruit-ripening/" ] ]
3tewg1
why aren't films pirated by random cinema employees that have access to the hard drive?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3tewg1/eli5why_arent_films_pirated_by_random_cinema/
{ "a_id": [ "cx5k1ap", "cx5lgap", "cx5m9rx", "cx5tlu3" ], "score": [ 9, 2, 6, 3 ], "text": [ "The financial profit of doing so is little to none, and the risk of being caught is pretty high. At best you would lose your job and at worst you get sued. In other words the risk ...
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
1qpfl7
what would happen if google, or a similarly sized company, were it to say 'no' to nsa requests?
Any outright shutdown of a corporation that large would result in way more attention to the issue than anything else, which can't be a good thing for anyone. What would happen?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1qpfl7/eli5_what_would_happen_if_google_or_a_similarly/
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[ [ "http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/nsa-infiltrates-links-to-yahoo-google-data-centers-worldwide-snowden-documents-say/2013/10/30/e51d661e-4166-11e3-8b74-d89d714ca4dd_story.html" ], [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://rt.com/usa/qwest-ceo-nsa-jail-604/", "http://atlasshrugs2...
2w5az9
how do phones get notifications instantly? are they always "checking"? or do they get a signal somehow?
I was wondering if phones are just always checking for notifications or if they get a signal of some sort. Also, bonus question, how does this affect the battery life?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2w5az9/eli5_how_do_phones_get_notifications_instantly/
{ "a_id": [ "conphes" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "The phone is in a \"standby\" mode, waiting for contact from the tower. Specific applications, such as email, will ping the email server to see if there's anything new, but for text/phone calls, the tower is the side that initiates. If the phone ...
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