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4ijes4
how are lakes created by nature (not man made lakes) and how did fish get in them?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4ijes4/eli5_how_are_lakes_created_by_nature_not_man_made/
{ "a_id": [ "d2yjihp", "d2yk5mi", "d2ypphj", "d2ypr2i", "d2z3v6t", "d2zdyyp", "d2zmper", "d2zv2jl" ], "score": [ 623, 34, 13, 12, 2, 6, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Land is not level. It's full of crinkles and mashed together piles, and flat areas too....
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walking_catfish", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sicyopterus_stimpsoni" ], [], [] ]
30rp1b
humans and dogs have been living in close proximity for at least 11,000 years. why aren't there more zoonotic disease that are transmissible between the two species?
I'm sitting here with a cold, and my dog is happily snuffling away at my face with no danger of getting sick. I demand to know why nature allows her to taunt me like this.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/30rp1b/eli5_humans_and_dogs_have_been_living_in_close/
{ "a_id": [ "cpv7etn" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Well we've probably built up an immunity to any disease that spreads between out two species. Also most animals only act as carriers of the disease, spreading it between humans. We aren't getting infected with the animal's disease. Also most dise...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
46myge
when a company pays it's employees, through check or direct deposit, does it just come out of some giant loaded bank account for the company designated to paychecks?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/46myge/eli5_when_a_company_pays_its_employees_through/
{ "a_id": [ "d06dd1n", "d06dz4a" ], "score": [ 2, 5 ], "text": [ "If the company does its own payroll, there is a separate bank account for payroll. The gross payroll amount, plus employer burdens, e.g., employer FICA in the US, is transferred from an operating account into that account f...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
6s3lsc
how can autonomous cars work without fail if there are still human drivers on the road?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6s3lsc/eli5_how_can_autonomous_cars_work_without_fail_if/
{ "a_id": [ "dl9sny0", "dl9spsm", "dl9sqsz" ], "score": [ 5, 3, 13 ], "text": [ "Nothing works without fail....But it is rapidly becoming possible for the combination of sensors and computers to manage the necessary tasks to maintain safe vehicular control EVEN with the random beha...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
nkipa
how people can be better at different things.
Seems like a simple question, but really I can't wrap my head around why my friend is an amazing artist, but I draw half-autistic stick figures. Or why I am amazing at computer diagnostics, but my friend can't figure out the Microsoft Word. Analogies are welcome.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/nkipa/eli5_how_people_can_be_better_at_different_things/
{ "a_id": [ "c39v4lb", "c39v4lb" ], "score": [ 5, 5 ], "text": [ "The reasons behind it are a blend of nature and nurture. \n\nNature can give one person a brain that is more advanced in certain lobes, providing artistic or logical abilities. Or your dexterity or vision could be different....
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2d2b8k
counter steering on a motorcycle
I ride and understand that turning left (with some speed) will lean, and consequently turn the bike right, but if someone could explain the physics, like I'm 5, I'd be very appreciative!
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2d2b8k/eli5_counter_steering_on_a_motorcycle/
{ "a_id": [ "cjlddn3" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "Here's how I think about it.. \n\nBecause the bike is moving quickly and heavier than you, you can't exactly muscle the bike into a lean like a bicycle.... so you initially kick the bottom out from under you in the opposite direction to generate ...
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[]
[ [] ]
7jwiv6
why does audio recorded from speakers sound horrible, while audio recorded naturally (irl) sound so much fuller and better?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7jwiv6/eli5_why_does_audio_recorded_from_speakers_sound/
{ "a_id": [ "dr9ss34" ], "score": [ 13 ], "text": [ "A similar question was asked in r/NoStupidQuestions with a great [answer](_URL_0_) by u/Afflo. For the lazy:\n > If you record a speaker with someone's voice, it will sound bad. I'm assuming you aren't using studio grade speakers and studio grad...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://www.reddit.com/r/NoStupidQuestions/comments/37ibfu/why_does_audio_from_a_speaker_sound_so_bad_when/crn9h3s/" ] ]
8gg919
why does your body get more of an urge to use the toilet when your arrive home
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8gg919/eli5_why_does_your_body_get_more_of_an_urge_to/
{ "a_id": [ "dybfdyu" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Essentially, your body gets into rhythms - it gets used to whenever you normally go to the toilet and is ready to go then and inhibits that urge somewhat outside of that time. You can retrain yourself by not going at that time and going at a diff...
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[]
[ [] ]
23r4z8
why are people of hispanic origin often referred to as being "latin"? when they have little to do with ancient rome?
To my understanding the Romans were Latin, and Latin was the language they spoke in Ancient Rome. Spanish is a common language among hispanics and one of the 5 Latin-based languages along with Italian, French, Portugese, and Romanian. So If it's a language or religious affiliation, then why aren't the Italians, Frenc...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/23r4z8/eli5_why_are_people_of_hispanic_origin_often/
{ "a_id": [ "cgzrsaz", "cgzrv2v", "cgzrw5d", "cgzsr1l", "cgzu8ns", "cgzv7x7" ], "score": [ 4, 23, 2, 13, 4, 3 ], "text": [ "Hmmm...I never though about this before. A quick trip to Wikipedia shows \"...can be traced back to the 1830s, in the writing of the ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
87kolx
why picking only 10 people for a data study is worse than picking > 30 people.
I have been trying to answer this question for a friend who REALLY doesn't seem to understand outliers and how they affect data. He doesn't have a math background, and really doesn't understand the concepts behind a good sample size. We are trying to come up with a means to collect data on athletes and their performa...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/87kolx/eli5_why_picking_only_10_people_for_a_data_study/
{ "a_id": [ "dwdj7qy", "dwdk1d1", "dwdpph5", "dwdx44y", "dwe3pnr", "dwesqph" ], "score": [ 19, 6, 2, 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Use some dice.\n\nThe average value of any single die being rolled should be 3.5(that the average of 6,5,4,3,2 & 1). However when you...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://www.surveysystem.com/sscalc.htm" ], [], [], [], [] ]
udyy0
differences between cdma and gsm, and why some carriers don't support one or the other.
There's a phone I REALLY want, but my carrier doesn't support it. Why?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/udyy0/eli5_differences_between_cdma_and_gsm_and_why/
{ "a_id": [ "c4ujtv0" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "You're playing with a toddlers toy that has two holes, one square and one triangular. Now the two wooden pieces that go into this are square and triangular. Both of these accomplish the same thing, they both go through holes. All phones make phon...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
cxpzup
why is pi considered infinite but the diameter will fit around the circumference at some point
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/cxpzup/eli5_why_is_pi_considered_infinite_but_the/
{ "a_id": [ "eymotye", "eymouoo", "eymp9u5" ], "score": [ 4, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "It's not infinite: it is a finite quantity. \n\nIt's just that quantity is not a valid that can be expressed as a decimal of fixed length or a ratio of two integers.", "Pi isn't considered infinite...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
2jnwdu
do blank cd's, vhs tape's, mini disc's etc weigh less than when they are filled with data?
Was wondering, could not find a scientific answer.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2jnwdu/eli5_do_blank_cds_vhs_tapes_mini_discs_etc_weigh/
{ "a_id": [ "cldfzv4", "cldg81g", "cldgv8c" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "No. Data is not a physical \"thing\". Data is when you take an existing medium and rearrange parts of it in a way that represents some sort of information. For instance, for magnetic storage (VHS and...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
2gwiqr
why does a hairline fracture hurt if there are no nerves in our bones
I have a small hairline fracture on my pinky from two weeks ago. I understand why it hurts in the moment it happens (joints bending and the momentum hitting the bones and nerves around it) But why two weeks later does it still hurt?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2gwiqr/eli5_why_does_a_hairline_fracture_hurt_if_there/
{ "a_id": [ "ckn61r1" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Because there's nerves all over and around your bones. Not to mention the \"lesser inclusive\" damage to the area caused by whatever happened to cause the fracture in the first place." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
d6i4xy
how does transportation funding work in the us? is it federal? state? what are the sources and mechanisms?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/d6i4xy/eli5_how_does_transportation_funding_work_in_the/
{ "a_id": [ "f0t9vn2", "f0tbs9v" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "There are multiple levels to transportation and who pays for it depends on its level. \n\nFor federally owned and operated interstates (I-10, I-75, etc.), the federal government has the responsibility of maintenance and ther...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1m1ihp
why the nra is such a powerful lobby
Edit: Trying not to sound bias - I'm not, just curious - I've heard many negative things about the NRA, specifically about their methods of coercing government officials and where they spend their money. Just hoping people can elaborate, and also explain how something like this can have SO much traction and power when ...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1m1ihp/eli5_why_the_nra_is_such_a_powerful_lobby/
{ "a_id": [ "cc4uxp7", "cc4uy2v", "cc4v71o", "cc4vftt", "cc4vk59", "cc4vskq", "cc4wduv" ], "score": [ 24, 4, 13, 14, 4, 16, 10 ], "text": [ "Alot of people are members. These members pay dues. The NRA has alot of money to spend on donations and lobby...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://www.usnews.com/news/articles/2013/07/29/poll-gun-rights-supporters-donate-far-more-on-the-issue-than-gun-control-advocates" ], [] ]
j676w
(or 12) -- logical fallacies
I mix them up so often because I can never remember which is which! Besides, I thought this would be fun to see if someone could actually explain this like I was 5 (or 12).
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/j676w/eli5_or_12_logical_fallacies/
{ "a_id": [ "c29j35d", "c29mabi", "c29j35d", "c29mabi" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "[This](_URL_0_) is a good page that explains 20 logical fallacies.", "A logical fallacy is when given a scenario, we fail to understand its real meaning.\nA good reason to lear...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://www.theskepticsguide.org/resources/logicalfallacies.aspx" ], [], [ "http://www.theskepticsguide.org/resources/logicalfallacies.aspx" ], [] ]
3kd8cj
how is unemployment rate around 5% yet it feels 10x harder to land a good job than a decade ago?
And why don't we use a better method since it can be so deceiving?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3kd8cj/eli5_how_is_unemployment_rate_around_5_yet_it/
{ "a_id": [ "cuwjtdt", "cuwka7d", "cuwkhti", "cuwkno2", "cuwkw0n", "cuwnmjw", "cuww28e", "cuwzedd", "cux3gaw" ], "score": [ 17, 18, 4, 2, 24, 3, 5, 2, 3 ], "text": [ " > Why does it feel harder to land a good job\n\nPart time jobs are...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://www.statista.com/statistics/205240/us-underemployment-rate/" ], [], [], [], [], [ "http://www.deptofnumbers.com/unemployment/duration/" ], [], [], [] ]
6j3knx
what's the evacuation plan for places like hospitals that have many people who have trouble walking or cannot walk at all?
Title. I spend most of my days at hospitals and I've always wondered how the hell they're supposed to get everyone out in the event of a fire or something
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6j3knx/eli5_whats_the_evacuation_plan_for_places_like/
{ "a_id": [ "djb83qr", "djb8pk9", "djbc4oa", "djbe564" ], "score": [ 23, 4, 12, 5 ], "text": [ "In the event of a small fire patients, staff and visitors can be evacuated from the affected area and relocated to a different unit on the same floor; lateral evacuation its call...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xbLpioOu9ok", "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqXtEtwE6Kw" ], [ "http://www.radiolab.org/story/playing-god/" ], [] ]
2ro6n1
with all these police shootings going on, would it not work to have police armed with instant tranquilizers as another option to bullets?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2ro6n1/eli5_with_all_these_police_shootings_going_on/
{ "a_id": [ "cnholgo", "cnhomcu", "cnhorhr", "cnhovp3", "cnhpq9v" ], "score": [ 10, 10, 2, 20, 2 ], "text": [ "There's no such thing as an instant tranquilizer dart.", "Well the biggest thing is there is no such thing as \"instant tranquilizers.\" Anesthesiologi...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
8dpkkl
can the average human brain create/imagine a unique human face or is it all based on faces already seen/remembered?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8dpkkl/eli5_can_the_average_human_brain_createimagine_a/
{ "a_id": [ "dxp0bhn" ], "score": [ 13 ], "text": [ "There really isn't any way to answer this question scientifically. But the human imagination is actually not that great at coming up with entirely new creations. Almost anything that you can possibly imagine is a combination of other things that...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
1u6ww5
how does decomposition of plant and animal matter differ in space compared to here on earth?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1u6ww5/eli5_how_does_decomposition_of_plant_and_animal/
{ "a_id": [ "cef910o" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Thing don't decompose in space, since there are no fungi or bacteria to decompose it. A dead organism in space remain there forever." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
an216h
considering all the talk of colonising marss, wouldn't it be easier to just make a moon base?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/an216h/eli5_considering_all_the_talk_of_colonising_marss/
{ "a_id": [ "efq3y6e", "efq4845", "efq7bjd", "efq905o", "efqqlyc" ], "score": [ 15, 7, 4, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "There are pros and cons either way, as I understand it. For instance: the moon is closer, but mars has enough gravity to be more comfortable (and healthier),...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
3egr4j
the raised middle wheel axel on some trucks with 3 axels. why not have all 3 wheel axels on the ground for better weight distribution of the truck?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3egr4j/eli5_the_raised_middle_wheel_axel_on_some_trucks/
{ "a_id": [ "cterpac" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "The more wheels you have on the road, the higher your roll resistance is, and also it wears down all wheels (while if they are raised they don't experience wear for obvious reasons). So ideally you only have as many wheels on the road as are abso...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
azh6n6
cheap flight finder sites like scottscheapflights?
How does Scott or other people that operate similar flight deals find the deals? I know that Scott had an AMA and I think he mentioned that he gets some inside tips, are the rest just him sitting 'looking for deals' or are there some bots?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/azh6n6/eli5_cheap_flight_finder_sites_like/
{ "a_id": [ "ei7q0hh" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Nearly all of these sites are basically snake oil and/or misleading.\n\nThere are just bots, scripts and programs (and APIs) in the travel community that hunt out and search the airline and travel algorithms and sites and report back, and there a...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2c57bd
why are water mains buried beneath streets?
It seems like having water mains and other infrastructure under roads creates more work and costs more money when repairs/changes need to be done. Why not have these structures in a spot that is easier to access, like under the grass between the sidewalks and the road (i.e. terraces)? Are there any advantages to havin...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2c57bd/eli5_why_are_water_mains_buried_beneath_streets/
{ "a_id": [ "cjc144c", "cjc2v65", "cjc3fo8", "cjcfx5x", "cjcg5gp", "cjci4kd" ], "score": [ 7, 31, 3, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Because that's private property very often and a pain in the ass to get full access to for a route. Much easier to build infrastructure...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
206zly
what exactly do the terms "neo-liberal" and "neo-conservative" mean? what do they stand for? what about their beliefs warrant the prefix "neo"?
Just looking for a very simple and objective explanation of these terms. I hear them greatly on news media and talk radio, always in a pejorative manner though which is not helpful. I am curious to know what they mean and just as importantly, how they are different from someone who is regarded as simply conservative or...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/206zly/eli5_what_exactly_do_the_terms_neoliberal_and/
{ "a_id": [ "cg0eu2e" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "[Neoliberalism](_URL_0_) is a belief in unfettered, laissez-faire capitalism, deregulation, free trade, and such. You almost never hear the term these days, because its tenets are generally held by conservative parties (the Republicans in the US...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neoliberalism", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neoconservatism", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Classical_liberalism" ] ]
6drhbg
how does soup preserve the meat that it contains?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6drhbg/eli5_how_does_soup_preserve_the_meat_that_it/
{ "a_id": [ "di4vmix" ], "score": [ 7 ], "text": [ "The meat isn't preserved by being in soup. It's preserved by being canned.\n\nThe soup + meat is heated to kill bacteria, and then sealed in an airtight can while still hot. This means that the contents of the can are sterile, which keeps the f...
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[]
[ [] ]
fnrx0e
if rf radiation is really safe why people that operate big antennas tell otherwise?
Over the years I met several big antenna operators (mostly TV broadcast repeaters and mobile networks combined) that told me how they don't like to be near them longer than necessary due to enormous power, frequent headaches, dizziness and possibly carcinogenic properties. Now, what I read on reputable sources, RF as ...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/fnrx0e/eli5_if_rf_radiation_is_really_safe_why_people/
{ "a_id": [ "flb59j5", "flb6t0s", "flbagjv", "flbiqes", "flc0vda" ], "score": [ 37, 9, 6, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Big antennas can be dangerous in some parts of the spectrum because they operate at insanely high power levels. High energy RF/microwave transmitters can cau...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
732egd
what are open and closed systems in terms of data and information?
Hi reddit. I need to know what open and closed systems are within data and informaiton, but Im not too sure wether the information I have been researching is reliable, because they all seem to say different things in terms of open and closed systems. Any answer is greatly apppreciated Thank you :D
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/732egd/eli5_what_are_open_and_closed_systems_in_terms_of/
{ "a_id": [ "dnn96nf", "dnnh3d3" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "It depends a bit on the context, as there's a few things this could be referring to.\n\nOne definition is open to the public vs. closed to the public. In this context, an open conversation can be seen by anyone. Posting on...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b0/General_Feedback_Loop.svg" ], [] ]
3coe8j
are there any other societies like the amish that stopped with tech at different points in history?
They Amish chose not to use any technology after a certain point. Are there people out there that stopped even before the Amish or more recently?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3coe8j/eli5_are_there_any_other_societies_like_the_amish/
{ "a_id": [ "csxefjx", "csxehmz", "csxgbsa", "csxjif5", "csxkkwb", "csxq7nj" ], "score": [ 4, 15, 6, 6, 5, 2 ], "text": [ "There are the [Mennonites](_URL_0_). Unlike the Amish, rather than just staying frozen in time, Mennonites evaluate every new technolog...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mennonite" ], [], [], [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Himba_people" ], [] ]
42zp2n
- why are humans the only animals that seem to need toilet paper?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/42zp2n/eli5_why_are_humans_the_only_animals_that_seem_to/
{ "a_id": [ "czebetz", "czebhny", "czeeg6j", "czej5pi", "czejnit", "czenlzv" ], "score": [ 58, 45, 10, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "There is noticeable poop on their butt. Also dogs lick their buttholes.\n\nWe need toilet paper because we don't like being covered ...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://sock-doc.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Full-Squat.jpg" ], [], [], [], [] ]
4ttujy
why if i bend me knee at a certain angle and lift my heel up, while keeping my forefoot down, why will my leg continue to shake?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4ttujy/eli5_why_if_i_bend_me_knee_at_a_certain_angle_and/
{ "a_id": [ "d5k9bju" ], "score": [ 8 ], "text": [ "In rock climbing, it is usually called sewing machine leg. When you are walking or running, there is a constant cycle of contracting and resting the calf muscles as you alternate legs. If you keep your heel slightly off the ground, often halfway ...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3it0vb
why are there no new superheroes?
Or maybe, why isn't the general public interested in any of the new superheroes? Either way, lemme know!
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3it0vb/eli5_why_are_there_no_new_superheroes/
{ "a_id": [ "cujdwmc", "cujeeu7" ], "score": [ 4, 2 ], "text": [ "Spider Gwen has been a huge hit since her debut in February.\n\nBut in general, as far as superheroes go, no one has really come up with a new and unique idea for one. Most recent superheroes are just slightly different peo...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1zbxl3
why with such high unemployment, the gov't cant just implement a massive public works project like they did with the new deal?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1zbxl3/eli5why_with_such_high_unemployment_the_govt_cant/
{ "a_id": [ "cfsb013", "cfsbov1", "cfsbuq4", "cfsbwkz", "cfsbyd0", "cfsciws" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2, 6, 2, 4 ], "text": [ "A lot of public works require training, they take time and money to train and license people to do stuff. Even road work takes people kn...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://www.businessweek.com/news/2014-02-26/mersch-says-renminbi-may-challenge-dollar-as-reserve-currency" ] ]
24uqms
how can google translate go between (somewhat) obscure languages such as urdu and swahili?
I'm thinking that they translate through a language such as English? (Urdu- English, English-Swahili)
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/24uqms/eli5_how_can_google_translate_go_between_somewhat/
{ "a_id": [ "chaucsp", "chaudhr" ], "score": [ 2, 5 ], "text": [ "Maybe it tries to parse the sentence, and a short phrase or a few words, is a more or less direct translation. Google might have less to allow for the logical consequences of the phrase 'have a lot of storage, so you can sug...
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[ [], [] ]
6yzar6
why are nasa spacesuits so bulky and space-x spacesuits are so sleek?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6yzar6/eli5_why_are_nasa_spacesuits_so_bulky_and_spacex/
{ "a_id": [ "dmrb4gc", "dmrcgz0", "dmrdrin" ], "score": [ 18, 10, 8 ], "text": [ "The spacex suit you saw pictures of today is for transitions between craft, not full vacuum. \n\nAlso they're brand new and NASA's aren't. But mostly the first thing.", "There are two kinds of spa...
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[ [], [], [ "https://www.nasa.gov/feature/new-spacesuit-unveiled-for-starliner-astronauts" ] ]
2gl4m2
when at the bank or pharmacy drive through, how does the cylinder capsule that you send back and forth to the teller operate?
How does it shoot up through a tube vertically and then return through a different tube?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2gl4m2/eli5_when_at_the_bank_or_pharmacy_drive_through/
{ "a_id": [ "ckk480a" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "It uses compressed air and vacuum pressure to push/pull the canisters through the tubes." ] }
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1wt6ka
are reflective objects reflective in all spectrums of electromagnetic waves? also, how do objects "reflect" heat when heat is something else entirely?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1wt6ka/eli5_are_reflective_objects_reflective_in_all/
{ "a_id": [ "cf54ul9", "cf54xe3" ], "score": [ 11, 5 ], "text": [ "Nope. Nor are they transparent across the whole spectrum.\n\nFor instance, many optics used in infrared research have lenses made out of germanium. It's not transparent to us in the visible spectrum but it is transparent in...
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[ [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corner_reflector" ] ]
mqmnl
the difference between keynesian and monetarist economics.
What is the difference between the various major schools of economic thought, namely Keynesian and monetarist? I understand that these schools often use the Great Depression as examples of their own merits, but I'm confused as to how they can make the same data point work for them in different ways.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/mqmnl/eli5_the_difference_between_keynesian_and/
{ "a_id": [ "c33346w", "c334knx", "c33346w", "c334knx" ], "score": [ 10, 4, 10, 4 ], "text": [ " > I'm confused as to how they can make the same data point work for them in different ways.\n\nWelcome to economics. \n\n > What is the difference between the various major scho...
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[ [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_business_cycle_theory", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_versus_nominal_value_(economics\\)" ], [ "http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0nERTFo-Sk", "http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTQnarzmTOc" ], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_business_cycle_theor...
85g4nu
why should i not be terrified when a plane encounters moderate turbulence?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/85g4nu/eli5_why_should_i_not_be_terrified_when_a_plane/
{ "a_id": [ "dvx6tab" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Planes are designed with a factor of safety 2, meaning that they are designed to handle twice the stress they are supposed to. Pilots also undergo rigorous training to handle all sorts of issues. Even if you hit turbulence heavy enough to shake o...
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5ofy02
why are races usually measured in distance rather than time? e.g., 5k instead of furthest distance achieved in 15minutes.
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5ofy02/eli5_why_are_races_usually_measured_in_distance/
{ "a_id": [ "dcj1f3l", "dcj1gho", "dcj2b99" ], "score": [ 5, 8, 6 ], "text": [ "The finish ribbon keeps tearing as the two motorcycles keeping it stretched across the route try to remain 5m in front of the leader. ", "Because being able to keep accurate time over short time per...
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[ [], [], [] ]
1bwzrr
the role of vitamin c in the human body
I was reading the comments of a Life Pro Tip earlier and found out that vitamin c is not actually proven to boost your immune system. I tried reading the wikipedia page to confirm this, but it was obviously written for someone with a degree in biochemistry.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1bwzrr/eli5_the_role_of_vitamin_c_in_the_human_body/
{ "a_id": [ "c9b4af4" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "I was donating blood the other day and I asked a phlebotomist why it's so important and she said it binds to iron which makes it easier to be absorbed by the body." ] }
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[ [] ]
8kv8ou
out of all minerals, why did salt become such a crucial cornerstone of our diets?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8kv8ou/eli5_out_of_all_minerals_why_did_salt_become_such/
{ "a_id": [ "dzar2g7", "dzar5iq", "dzarrnn" ], "score": [ 4, 5, 3 ], "text": [ "A\\) It tastes good. B\\) We need salt to keep our osmotic pressure in our bodies \\(the differential between water and ions in a liquid\\)", "It’s good at preserving meat so that we don’t get sick ...
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[ [], [], [] ]
d2e8v7
what are those rubber cord things sometimes fastened to various roads for cars to drive over?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/d2e8v7/eli5_what_are_those_rubber_cord_things_sometimes/
{ "a_id": [ "ezub7vi" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Pretty sure it counts cars on the road and times of day so they can better regulate the flow of traffic. Pretty much recording patterns in traffic." ] }
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[ [] ]
38duhk
why are guitar, bass and drum kit the basic instrumental core of modern music?
Of all instruments (and of course a few of them are used very often - such as keyboards or sax, among others - though not as much as the "essential" ones in the title), why exactly is the vast majority of modern music genres based on those three instruments? Even the drum kit itself, why is it the way it is, with all t...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/38duhk/eli5_why_are_guitar_bass_and_drum_kit_the_basic/
{ "a_id": [ "cru9urg", "cruablg", "cruajg1", "crubkza", "crudemd", "cruf43i", "cruh153", "cruh2aa" ], "score": [ 15, 79, 7, 3, 2, 5, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "I think there's a decent argument to be made that the synthesiser is, at least in many are...
[]
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qM869WYpp-0" ], [], [] ]
2x43i7
how do we know the content of the bible has not been altered through its history?
Prior to the invention of the printing press in the 15th century, I assume the bible was spread by handwritten copies, so is there any way people can be sure that what they read is the same as what were supposedly God's words? By alter, I mean in the actual content, as opposed to a variation in translation/interpretati...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2x43i7/eli5_how_do_we_know_the_content_of_the_bible_has/
{ "a_id": [ "cowogne", "cowomj0", "cowp0v9" ], "score": [ 16, 7, 4 ], "text": [ "It has been altered and edited by anonymous sources for hundreds of years. There's not much good reason to think it's reliable or accurate. ", "We actually know for certain that the content of the ...
[]
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[ [], [], [] ]
ejexip
why is everyone so pissed off at the australian prime minister?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ejexip/eli5_why_is_everyone_so_pissed_off_at_the/
{ "a_id": [ "fcx8oc8" ], "score": [ 7 ], "text": [ "It's because Australia has very, very strong brush fires right now that are threatening many people. Some people are even getting notifications that it's too late to evacuate and that they just need to stay in their house and hope for the best.\n...
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[ [] ]
3iysqi
after the chernobyl accident the soviet government evacuated thousands of people and established a 30km exclusion zone. people died of acute radiation sickness... but some reactors at chernobyl npp continued operating until 1999?
Were these workers in danger? Did they wear dosimeters and decontaminate after every shift? Or is the plant just bigger than I'm imagining and the other reactors were a safe distance away? Wtf is up with this 10+ year period where people were continuing to work at Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant after the accident?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3iysqi/eli5_after_the_chernobyl_accident_the_soviet/
{ "a_id": [ "cukv9ba" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "The people who died of acute radiation sickness were the intervention personnel who actively participated in the containment of the core. They needed to go into the building, in fact, right up close to the core in full meltdown. For many of them,...
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cx8691
for foods that are typically bbqued, why does it taste different if you were to cook it in the oven or stove?
Aren't you just cooking via heat application? Shouldn't the method of heat application have nothing to do with the taste of the food?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/cx8691/eli5_for_foods_that_are_typically_bbqued_why_does/
{ "a_id": [ "eyjg786", "eyjir54" ], "score": [ 7, 3 ], "text": [ "The heat source used for BBQ, most often charcoal or something like that, creates a lot of smoke. The flavor of this smoke flavors the meat while cooking it. This creates the tyical smokey BBQ flavor of BBQued meats", "S...
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[ [], [] ]
38butc
if the whole world ran on clean energy, would it still be bad to waste electricity
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/38butc/eli5_if_the_whole_world_ran_on_clean_energy_would/
{ "a_id": [ "crtvqwe" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Waste is never a good thing, but from a consumer perspective, you'd still have to pay for it. There's still infrastructure to maintain" ] }
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[ [] ]
37s6fk
what causes a beer belly. what are the best ways to fright/ lose a beer belly?
Is it only beer? Is that a myth? If it is not a myth whats the best way to fix or prevent a beer belly?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/37s6fk/eli5what_causes_a_beer_belly_what_are_the_best/
{ "a_id": [ "crpe9g2", "crpeab4", "crpeb99", "crpfet5" ], "score": [ 5, 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "The beer thing is a myth. It is simply abdominal fat from any source.\n\nThe best way to fix it, as with any fat accumulation, is a change in diet and exercise.", "Every day yo...
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
5pqipt
the earth has been around for millions of years. how can the last 12 years have been the warmest ever? further, how could humans have had such an impact in such a short time?
The 12-year quote is pulled from here: _URL_0_ EDIT: I was incorrect in my quoting from the article. The nature of the question - of how humans have impacted the earth's temperature in such a short time - still persists.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5pqipt/eli5_the_earth_has_been_around_for_millions_of/
{ "a_id": [ "dcszvvb", "dct06a3", "dct0718" ], "score": [ 2, 4, 2 ], "text": [ "They are not the warmest ever. The temperatures we have now are about what they were during Ancient Rome (as per grape growing data in Europe). And during several prehistoric era temperatures were much ...
[]
[ "http://www.eea.europa.eu/themes/climate/faq/how-is-climate-changing-and-how-has-it-changed-in-the-past" ]
[ [], [], [ "https://xkcd.com/1732/" ] ]
4ddxa9
why do underwater images/videos never show up as blurry?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4ddxa9/eli5_why_do_underwater_imagesvideos_never_show_up/
{ "a_id": [ "d1q2b0q" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "A drop of water refracts light differently than the air that the camera is looking through, so it will be out of focus.\n\nUnderwater, light is still refracted, but in one direction, so the camera is focused correctly." ] }
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6ashn1
how did this guy survive by consuming only water for 28 days?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6ashn1/eli5_how_did_this_guy_survive_by_consuming_only/
{ "a_id": [ "dhh1ne0" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "The results you are seeing could not have happened from fasting. Fasting causes you to lose weight, yes, but before you lose fat your body goes for its protein reserves (muscle). \n\nIf he really fasted for 28 days and lost all that weight he wou...
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2iwjev
what are the black spots that occasionally appear on our nails?
Hello They are basically small dark spots that appear on our nails once in ages and s the nails grow, it moves upward and eventually you cut it. Once it got to the length where I could cut it, I tried to scratch it off, which I certainly could. Thanks
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2iwjev/eli5_what_are_the_black_spots_that_occasionally/
{ "a_id": [ "cl6afj6" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "It depends, black lines can be a sign of melanoma and certain spots can be indicative of a heart issue. Knew someone that actually went through this, had to have a sample taken from is finger, fortunately didn't have melanoma." ] }
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36owy7
why do people get married?
I don't get it. Why does anyone ever get married? I mean, perhaps some marry for religious reasons, but I'm talking about folks who just get married cause they love each other. What's the actual benefit of it? I'm asking not to be a dick or insult married people, I'm actually considering marriage myself. I'm making a...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/36owy7/eli5_why_do_people_get_married/
{ "a_id": [ "crfska3", "crfsltd", "crfslum", "crfsmu4", "crfsocb", "crfsrmt", "crfssyr", "crfsxki", "crfv656" ], "score": [ 15, 10, 21, 2, 3, 5, 2, 8, 4 ], "text": [ "For legal reasons. One specific reason is if you or your partner is...
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[]
[ [], [], [], [], [ "http://youtu.be/zuKV2DI9-Jg" ], [], [], [], [] ]
a4g0tu
how do christmas trees continue to take water and live after they have been chopped down and sitting out for a while?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/a4g0tu/eli5_how_do_christmas_trees_continue_to_take/
{ "a_id": [ "ebe3ry0", "ebef27k", "ebegm4t" ], "score": [ 17, 5, 3 ], "text": [ "A combination of capillary action and suction.\n\nThe leaves are still alive, they are drawing the moisture and nutrients up from the base of the tree and expelling some of the water through tiny pores...
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[ [ "https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transpiration" ], [], [] ]
1kjro4
what is happening to my nervous system when doctors numb an area of my body?
I recently had my wisdom teeth removed and the dentist numbed the back of my mouth. Then, proceeded to yank two huge wisdom teeth out while blood was spouting everywhere. All the while, even though I was conscious the whole time, I felt nothing. Why?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1kjro4/eli5_what_is_happening_to_my_nervous_system_when/
{ "a_id": [ "cbpnh8s", "cbprdnt" ], "score": [ 11, 2 ], "text": [ "You feel pain (as well as touch) via nerves that transmit 'information' from your mouth and around your teeth to your brain. The information your brain receives is interpreted, where you consciously sense it.\nAnaesthesia i...
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[ [], [] ]
38zskw
why an astronaut's space suit doesn't crush like a tin can in the vacuum of space?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/38zskw/eli5why_an_astronauts_space_suit_doesnt_crush/
{ "a_id": [ "crz66r1", "crz6b6n" ], "score": [ 2, 4 ], "text": [ "Why would it? All the pressure is on the inside. A spacesuit is more like a balloon than a tin can. A well reinforced balloon. ", "As the other redditor said, all the pressure is on the inside of the suit. It is as he sa...
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[ [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V8T6Zf4UEnA" ] ]
9qad78
why does the sound of an engine change when it drives past you?
Cars, planes, jets anything with a motor.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9qad78/eli5_why_does_the_sound_of_an_engine_change_when/
{ "a_id": [ "e87w12x", "e87w5kf", "e87wpm5", "e87wyq8" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 73, 2 ], "text": [ "Okay so I'm not a scientist so I'm gonna try to explain what I remember from high school.\nIt's because the sound waves hit your ears differently, when the sound waves and the veh...
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
41rabi
how is a printer able to seperate papers taken from the tray so successfully, while i struggle every time?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/41rabi/eli5_how_is_a_printer_able_to_seperate_papers/
{ "a_id": [ "cz4irp6" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "A tray will hold a stack of paper still while a rubber roller grips and pulls the top sheet off. \n\nSort of like how you can grip your bed sheet and your mattress cover doesn't come off with it at the same time. " ] }
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ah7y2q
why does periodic table look different in different countries?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ah7y2q/eli5_why_does_periodic_table_look_different_in/
{ "a_id": [ "eec61da" ], "score": [ 9 ], "text": [ "Are they?\n\nI thought it was all standardized to the point where even the letters of the elements (H, He, Li etc) was the same regardless of the language or alphabet used" ] }
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bh7u1y
what determines penis/breast size, and why does it differ, generally, around the globe?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/bh7u1y/eli5_what_determines_penisbreast_size_and_why/
{ "a_id": [ "elqm7xu" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "It is mostly genetics. Shape and size vary so much because there is no one single Gene that covers it. These are both traits that are affected by a wide variety of genes.\n\nDiet and nutrition also plays a part, especially for breasts, because br...
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16ygoe
what is the deal with measuring cups?
Simply why are all american recipes measured in cups? I understand the difference in measuring by volume for liquids/solids (including i.e. flour and sugar) but why don't people just measure by weight? Enraged five year old European here who just wants to make some cake without any cup shenanigans.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/16ygoe/what_is_the_deal_with_measuring_cups/
{ "a_id": [ "c80j0ms" ], "score": [ 7 ], "text": [ "1. It's always been done that way.\n\n2. Measuring cups are cheaper than a scale" ] }
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[ [] ]
2qcdy6
why is cut faster than copy on a pc?
Since you're not physically moving a file, I would expect it to be slower, as the computer also have to delete the original. Yet, cutting always seems faster than copying. Why so?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2qcdy6/eli5_why_is_cut_faster_than_copy_on_a_pc/
{ "a_id": [ "cn4ts3f" ], "score": [ 9 ], "text": [ "You may imagine that cutting requires additional time to write zeroes to the old places on the disk aside from writing in the ones to the new places, rather than copying which just writes the ones, and as such cutting will take additional time be...
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[ [] ]
83t4al
the role of chromosomes in the inheritance of genes
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/83t4al/eli5_the_role_of_chromosomes_in_the_inheritance/
{ "a_id": [ "dvkd4dk", "dvm03hj" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Chromosomes ARE genes. All your DNA is wrapped up in bundles, and those bundles are chromosomes. \n\nChromosomes are copied every time as cell divides so your cells all have a copy, except sperm cells/egg cells which get *ha...
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[ [], [] ]
2trqic
how is the quality of a projector measured? in resolution, like other displays? do projectors even have a resolution?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2trqic/eli5_how_is_the_quality_of_a_projector_measured/
{ "a_id": [ "co1pzed", "co1q6qc", "co1qc59", "co1riym" ], "score": [ 2, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Resolution will give you a good idea of the general picture quality, but you'll also want to pay attention to the lumens (brightness) and color quality.", "Yes, like monitors, ...
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
5ygd0p
why does the internet get slower when my laptop is further away from the router? isn't the data still traveling at the speed of light?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5ygd0p/eli5_why_does_the_internet_get_slower_when_my/
{ "a_id": [ "deprngp", "deproo1", "deprppf", "depvgw9" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 9, 6 ], "text": [ "wireless signals are not perfectly transmitted and received due to interference. when a packet is not received, it takes time to acknowledge and resend the packet. that reduce...
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
2upng7
why does stuff sound louder for a moment every-time i yawn or burp?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2upng7/eli5_why_does_stuff_sound_louder_for_a_moment/
{ "a_id": [ "coamyda" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Sorry i cant give a good scientific proof, but i THINK it may have to do with eustachian tube which controls pressure in your ear. Most likely when you yawn pressure somehow increases or decreases. Im probably wrong on this one but Id live to see...
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1kaue3
what's the difference between me hitting credit or punching in my pass code when i use a debit card for a purchase?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1kaue3/eli5_whats_the_difference_between_me_hitting/
{ "a_id": [ "cbn2e74" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Both ways you process it, it is a debit transaction. Credit transactions costs the store a little more and takes longer to hit your checking account. When you charge credit, your debit card goes through the credit card network and when you charge...
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[ [] ]
2dj5v2
will screens continue to have more and more pixels indefinitely, or will we soon reach a point where humans won't notice the difference between, say, 1000 pixels per inch and 2000 pixels per inch?
I recently was looking at the specs of different generations of iPads and noticed that between the 2nd gen and 3rd gen (IIRC) the number of pixels per inch doubled, purportedly resulting in a significantly more aesthetically pleasing experience for the user. Will screen resolutions continue to get better and better, o...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2dj5v2/eli5_will_screens_continue_to_have_more_and_more/
{ "a_id": [ "cjpyxva", "cjpz2c2", "cjq05qv", "cjq1mvd", "cjq2njv", "cjq2uee", "cjq4xeo", "cjq6agn", "cjq7w97", "cjq85pz", "cjq8ahj", "cjqc41x", "cjqnewc", "cjqqlb5" ], "score": [ 31, 240, 15, 136, 8, 21, 2, 3, 4, 4, ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=1+inch+%2F+%280.3+arcminute+at+12+inches%29", "http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=1+inch+%2F+%281+arcminute+at+12+inches%29" ], [], [ "http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=1+inch+%2F+%281+arcminute+at+3+inches%29" ], [], ...
2hfgmg
why aren't more car engines rear/mid mounted?
It seems like they're higher performance, and lower tier cars have had rear engines in the past, like any early VW. So, what gives? If rear/mid mounted engines are so much better, why aren't they being used in more cars?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2hfgmg/eli5_why_arent_more_car_engines_rearmid_mounted/
{ "a_id": [ "cks5b3r", "cks5e3i", "cks5gb4" ], "score": [ 7, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "In short, its cost and practicality (which are main features for lower-priced cars).\n\nGenerally speaking, the hood of your car is larger than the rear portion of your car. Mid-engine cars are typicall...
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[ [], [], [] ]
1n988q
why do personal computers, smartphones and tablets become slower over time even after cleaning hard drives, but game consoles like the nes and playstation 2 still play their games at full speed and show no signs of slowdown?
Why do personal computers, smartphones and tablets become slower over time even after cleaning hard drives, but game consoles like the NES and PlayStation 2 still play their games at full speed and show no signs of slowdown?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1n988q/eli5_why_do_personal_computers_smartphones_and/
{ "a_id": [ "cdu2ydp", "ccghjs6", "ccgjtkn", "ccgk4ix", "ccgklnu", "ccgkpn4", "ccglg77", "ccgmdkf", "ccgmn7b", "ccgmyx9", "ccgndhh", "ccgnnru", "ccgo6t8", "ccgp3ml", "ccgql8b", "ccgrnkx", "ccgt4g4", "ccgtikx", "ccgtw6u", "ccgu1cd", "c...
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[ [], [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TRIM_(SSD_command)" ], [], [], [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reliability_(semiconductor)", "https://www.google.com/patents/US5278839?dq=5278839&hl=en&sa=X&ei=gdlFUpqoEoHs8QSrjoHoDw&ved=0CDcQ6AEwAA", "http://www.intel.com/con...
e749u5
how do houses made out of brick collapse when on fire?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/e749u5/eli5_how_do_houses_made_out_of_brick_collapse/
{ "a_id": [ "f9v96eu", "f9v9a93", "f9v9crw", "f9v9xze", "f9vbmtq" ], "score": [ 7, 2, 2, 6, 3 ], "text": [ "They are brick with timber supports the bricks stay in place the timber burns placing stress and strain on various parts of the brickwork, alternatively the b...
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[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
3vc5kq
how come att can't give me the prices that cricket uses? att owns cricket, another cell phone provider. they have completely different plan options, but will not offer them through each other???
I feel that if ATT can afford to have those prices with Cricket, then they should be able to sell them to me through ATT.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3vc5kq/eli5_how_come_att_cant_give_me_the_prices_that/
{ "a_id": [ "cxm7533", "cxm7neb" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "They probably offer lower end devices or different quality of service for Cricket to offset the price difference. Similar scenario with Sprint and Boost. Just trying to attract a different audience. ", "Pricing usuall...
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[ [], [] ]
a4brlw
in music theory, what determines a chord's name?
Major? Minor? Suspended? Diminished? Dominant? Augmented? What does it all mean??
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/a4brlw/eli5_in_music_theory_what_determines_a_chords_name/
{ "a_id": [ "ebd2nbi", "ebd5q4l", "ebd6bho", "ebdl7qk", "ebe5d0l" ], "score": [ 7, 40, 2, 5, 4 ], "text": [ "I learned this a few months ago for guitar its a little far in my memory but here goes. \n\nMinor and major refers to what 3rd is being used. Theres the majo...
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[ [], [], [], [ "https://ufile.io/st6me" ], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ln5O1LuItrs" ] ]
5yxyyd
how does dopamine work in our daily lives and how can we expend it on work rather than procrastinating?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5yxyyd/eli5_how_does_dopamine_work_in_our_daily_lives/
{ "a_id": [ "deuext6" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Neuroscientist here.\n\nThere's a staggering amount of misinformation about dopamine floating around in popular culture. \n\nThe truth is, dopamine is just a neurotransmitter: a chemical that neurons use to send signals to other neurons. One dopa...
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2d537c
why does facebook need so many seemingly intrusive permissions?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2d537c/eli5_why_does_facebook_need_so_many_seemingly/
{ "a_id": [ "cjm5cro", "cjm5v6q", "cjm8xfw", "cjmbjfb", "cjmew2z", "cjmmnuf" ], "score": [ 15, 2, 17, 9, 4, 5 ], "text": [ "I assume you're talking about the mobile application?\n\nI don't know the entire list of permissions off the top of my head, but I can...
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[ [], [], [ "http://www.androidcentral.com/facebook-messenger-permissions-not-scary-stories-might-have-you-believe" ], [], [], [] ]
dyb88e
when we drink cranberry juice or coke why doesn’t our pee turn purple or brown when we drink them
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dyb88e/eli5_when_we_drink_cranberry_juice_or_coke_why/
{ "a_id": [ "f8007v5", "f80h7dw" ], "score": [ 4, 3 ], "text": [ "There isn't a direct link from your mouth to your bladder. Things are absorbed in your gut, metabolized, and then water and waste products are taken out of your blood in your kidneys and turned into urine. Your poo is usuall...
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13lqgx
why does drinking a warm drink on a cold day make my whole body feel warm?
When I drink something like coffee or tea or hot chocolate on a winter day, I feel completely warm, from my core to my extremities. I understand my throat or stomach feeling warm, but what's the explanation for EVERYTHING feeling warmer?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/13lqgx/eli5_why_does_drinking_a_warm_drink_on_a_cold_day/
{ "a_id": [ "c751tiq" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "the heat transfers into your blood, which is carried to your limbs" ] }
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2mvczk
why do we hear about some people who evade taxes or have unpaid taxes when the federal and state government take taxes right out of my paycheck?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2mvczk/eli5_why_do_we_hear_about_some_people_who_evade/
{ "a_id": [ "cm7w9do", "cm7wh9k" ], "score": [ 11, 5 ], "text": [ "They take it out of your paycheck because you told your employer how much they should take out of your paycheck each pay period. That was one of the forms you filled out when you started.\n\nThese people may have told thei...
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1j3h1i
if all internet service providers suddenly went bankrupt (e.g. if a global economic collapse happened) how would we access the internet?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1j3h1i/eli5if_all_internet_service_providers_suddenly/
{ "a_id": [ "cbapfrn", "cbapxny", "cbaz3fl" ], "score": [ 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "The stuff that's used to connect to the internet would not all of a sudden stop working just because a company ran out of money.\n\nSomeone would buy it, and make money selling the service to other peop...
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[ [], [], [] ]
1nazwh
what is happening inside when i'm losing weight?
I know you have to eat less and move more - I'm not asking about that. I want to know what sorts of things are going on inside my body when I start eating less and moving more. Is my body kind of cannibalizing itself at that point? I figure if I know what's going on in there, maybe I can tweak the process to make we...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1nazwh/what_is_happening_inside_when_im_losing_weight/
{ "a_id": [ "ccgya09" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "Usually, when the body gets more energy (calories) for what it needs for its internal functions (cell multiplication, moving muscles and heart beating, thinking, every single one of those would use up incredible amount of energy), it simply store...
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1hhxyc
why do we need to go through a company to access the internet and why can't we come up with a way of accessing it ourselves? do they own the internet?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1hhxyc/eli5_why_do_we_need_to_go_through_a_company_to/
{ "a_id": [ "cauhndy", "cauho1f", "caui1w7", "cauklu9", "causx64" ], "score": [ 4, 10, 16, 15, 3 ], "text": [ "In order to get access to all the sites everywhere you need to make deals with all the people that provide those sites and services. ISPs do all of this d...
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24hli0
why don't humans produce the enzyme required to digest cellulose?
Cellulose is in a lot of plants we eat, like corn.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/24hli0/eli5_why_dont_humans_produce_the_enzyme_required/
{ "a_id": [ "ch773n7", "ch78exx", "ch7a5u1" ], "score": [ 8, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Because we instead produce the enzymes and have a digestive system capable of digesting meat. The critters that can eat cellulose generally are full herbivores and can't do that, because their digestive...
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4xodjd
why does an ideal gas heat up when it's being compressed?
I understand it in terms of energy transfer, but thinking of the gas particles as billiard balls flying around, I don't get it.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4xodjd/eli5_why_does_an_ideal_gas_heat_up_when_its_being/
{ "a_id": [ "d6ha0jo" ], "score": [ 6 ], "text": [ "Let's change up the analogy a bit. Let's think ping pong balls, since they're easier to picture bouncing around. \n\nSo imagine dozens of ping pong balls in a big glass box, the size of a tennis court. This is our ideal gas, they bounce off the ...
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3sa1ir
university of missouri protest
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3sa1ir/eli5_university_of_missouri_protest/
{ "a_id": [ "cwvf6m4", "cwvfn0q", "cwvggoq", "cwx4o4f" ], "score": [ 11, 13, 5, 2 ], "text": [ "There has been an underlying race issue at Mizzou long before this week. This is just the first time it has boiled over into a national news issue. Though I am white and never ex...
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13ziw5
how black holes and anti-matter work.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/13ziw5/eli5_how_black_holes_and_antimatter_work/
{ "a_id": [ "c78idli" ], "score": [ 44 ], "text": [ "Black holes: All stuff (matter) in the universe pulls on everything else. This force is called gravity. If you bring enough matter together in one place it will clump together. This is why planets and stars don't just fall apart. The more stuff ...
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1gwljr
why can't android run on iphones and vice versa?
When it comes down to it, aren't all cell phones pretty similar? They have most of the same parts. If we can access all of the files, what stops us from being able to run Android on iPhones?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1gwljr/why_cant_android_run_on_iphones_and_vice_versa/
{ "a_id": [ "caoje9e" ], "score": [ 6 ], "text": [ "They are similar to look at and touch, and they are made up of the same basic pieces - processor, RAM, screen, etc. However, there is a significant design difference between Android and Apples IOS. \n\nAndroid has been designed to be open and to ...
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[ [ "http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5yO2KQHkt4A" ] ]
3bmlev
what does it mean to privatize marriage? what would that mean for marriage as we know it currently?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3bmlev/eli5_what_does_it_mean_to_privatize_marriage_what/
{ "a_id": [ "csnhc5w" ], "score": [ 9 ], "text": [ "I assume you mean by privatization that you mean getting the government out of marriage. It wouldn't mean anything for marriage except people getting married wouldn't need to go to the state and petition them for a license, essentially permission...
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1yo1rm
adverse possesion or, squatters rights.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1yo1rm/eli5_adverse_possesion_or_squatters_rights/
{ "a_id": [ "cfm7eir" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Depending on the jurisdiction, if you occupy land in an obvious and overt fashion for an extended period of time (like, forty years) without being challenged by the owner, you BECOME the owner." ] }
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5mljeh
why are there certain sounds men and women make sexually that aren't made in any other situation?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5mljeh/eli5_why_are_there_certain_sounds_men_and_women/
{ "a_id": [ "dc4g6qi", "dc4gj2x" ], "score": [ 4, 2 ], "text": [ "You've never listened to women playing tennis or men struggling to lift something?\n\nMost sexual grunting and moaning is a result of strenuous exercise and tension, plus the sounds of pleasurable release (which people can o...
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4b9u79
why exactly is english as a language so exception-filled and context specific?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4b9u79/eli5_why_exactly_is_english_as_a_language_so/
{ "a_id": [ "d178rtl", "d179yju" ], "score": [ 2, 5 ], "text": [ " > Germanic language with a hodgepodge of borrowed words from basically everywhere else, which might have retained their original rules despite being used in English\n\nThat really is the issue.\n\nI mean, you could say tha...
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[ [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acad%C3%A9mie_fran%C3%A7aise" ], [] ]
1dqlxh
why my perception of my face in the mirror changes as the day goes on.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1dqlxh/eli5_why_my_perception_of_my_face_in_the_mirror/
{ "a_id": [ "c9t3qjm" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "The lighting might affect your perception. Even if you're in a locked bathroom, natural light will get in in the morning, different light will be there in the afternoon, at dusk, and at midnight. Lighting DEFINITELY affects how you look in a mirr...
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45r211
why do some animals hibernate in the winter instead of migrating or simply living somewhere warmer?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/45r211/eli5_why_do_some_animals_hibernate_in_the_winter/
{ "a_id": [ "czzl854", "czznrsj", "czzpsry" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "There are many strategies for survival. Species have been fine tuned to there particular habitat. Some migrate, some hibernate. ", "A mouse would really struggle to migrate to somewhere else - they'...
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5leb73
why do we, as humans, crave social interaction and attention?
Just curious but why the hell does every person prefer to do things in the company of others. I questioned this as a came back from the bar alone for NYE. I was okay with being alone at the bar and listening to the live band as well as watching the terrible drunk people on the dance floor. I couldn't help but notice th...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5leb73/eli5_why_do_we_as_humans_crave_social_interaction/
{ "a_id": [ "dbv1r7v", "dbv66s9" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Lots of people prefer to do things on their own but these people usually stay home to do it.\n\nIt makes no sense to go to a social venue such as a bar to go and dance alone. You could just dance and drink at home. The venue...
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[ [], [ "https://www.google.no/amp/www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/why-smart-people-are-better-off-with-fewer-friends-a6939751.html%3Famp?client=safari" ] ]
6usm8o
why do so many baby boomers have hep c?
I'm seeing this commercial over and over about 1 in 30 baby boomers having hep C..... why?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6usm8o/eli5_why_do_so_many_baby_boomers_have_hep_c/
{ "a_id": [ "dlv4726", "dlv4j7b", "dlv5h4m", "dlvbil8" ], "score": [ 9, 14, 5, 2 ], "text": [ "Before AIDS there was this thing called the sexual revolution and the Vietnam War. Lots of funky gettin' it on goin' on and not much that couldn't be taken care of to worry about...
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[ [], [ "https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=24737271", "https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27039040" ], [], [] ]
ahod40
how does a modern warship get cleaned?
I’ve read that “swabbing the deck” was punishment for sailors back in the day. Do something bad, expect to be scrubbing the ship. How does this work in a modern navy? Do they really still have sailors scrubbing decks as punishment? Do they use modern equipment or just buckets and rags? Is there a civilian, janitorial ...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ahod40/eli5_how_does_a_modern_warship_get_cleaned/
{ "a_id": [ "eegfj51", "eegftxk", "eegkyx2" ], "score": [ 7, 4, 2 ], "text": [ "It wasn't really punishment to wash the deck. It was something everyone had to do on a regular basis.\n\nModern sailors clean and maintain their equipment constantly. If you aren't fighting, or training...
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5oc0do
why can't people have purple, red or maybe solid blue eyes?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5oc0do/eli5_why_cant_people_have_purple_red_or_maybe/
{ "a_id": [ "dci6lxp", "dcig3tn" ], "score": [ 7, 24 ], "text": [ "From my limited understanding of biology I believe there are multiple genes that affect say skin color, eye color, hair color. Any combination of variations can lead to a different skin, eye, or hair color. There isn't an i...
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