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6z7d2q
how do they conclude that north korean missiles could reach the us mainland and alaska when they landed only on the sea of japan, or somewhere too far from the us?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6z7d2q/eli5_how_do_they_conclude_that_north_korean/
{ "a_id": [ "dmt2jy1" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "Its all about how high they went. You can calculate how much energy the rocket was capable of by how high it went. To reach the USA the missile wouldnt have to go very high, graph i seen after the 3^rd July test said 1,000km, that test reached 2,...
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[ [] ]
40snda
would consuming 4000 calories in a day and not eating the 2nd day yield the same results as consuming 2000 calories a day over two consecutive days?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/40snda/eli5_would_consuming_4000_calories_in_a_day_and/
{ "a_id": [ "cywtlj1", "cywwf2y", "cyx031t", "cyx45y2", "cyx4xw5", "cyx6oky", "cyx7gin", "cyxbhuz", "cyxbqf3", "cyycmgg" ], "score": [ 129, 25, 9, 272, 3, 44, 3, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "over the time frame you are talking about ...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://www.livescience.com/48888-intermittent-fasting-benefits-weight-loss.html" ], [], [], [ "http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-35290671" ], [], [], [], [], [] ]
2h3tgh
how do large animals mate?
Firstly I'm thinking of hoofed quadrupeds like horses and cattle. Is it doggy style? Can the male's penis reach the female's vagina? And can the male not only jump onto two legs to get onto the female's back, but then can the female hold all that weight while they do it? On video I've seen turtles do it doggy style and...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2h3tgh/eli5how_do_large_animals_mate/
{ "a_id": [ "ckp4q6m", "ckp4vsh" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Yes, most large mammals (including elephants) do it doggy style. And yes, they are generally well hung to be able to do so.\n\nEdit: Not 100% sure on crocs, but id be surprised if they did it any other way than in the water ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1oeisx
why inbred people/animals have mental and appearance issues
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1oeisx/eli5_why_inbred_peopleanimals_have_mental_and/
{ "a_id": [ "ccr940l" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Think of a family you know. Preferably one with both parents and a couple kids. Do they have a common look? Perhaps a common cheek structure? Big forehead? Small ears? Let's go with small ears.\n\n\nSomewhere in their genetic make-up is a gene th...
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[ [] ]
403ptv
how exactly do people actually support el chapo, and want him freed?
I just can't understand how I can go on social media and see people rallying for the release of El Chapo, with hashtags such as #freeelchapo. Is turning an eye to murder, child kidnappings and drug trafficking suddenly okay?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/403ptv/eli5_how_exactly_do_people_actually_support_el/
{ "a_id": [ "cyr9qxs", "cyrifjm" ], "score": [ 4, 2 ], "text": [ "like Escobar I imagine he Won over the public with privately funded benefits/welfare for the poor using his drug money, Robin hood tactics I think they call it.", "The same reason people support organizations like ISIS a...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
9zb97e
why do benzodiazepines and barbiturates inhibit the rem stage of sleep? does gaba play a role in stages of sleep?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9zb97e/eli5_why_do_benzodiazepines_and_barbiturates/
{ "a_id": [ "ea7u6km" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "GABA transmitters, in basic and incomplete terms, are similar to an on/off switch for neural transmission.\n\nWhenever you ingest a psychoactive, it does it’s best to mimic neurological activity, and your body basically sees itself as already pro...
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[ [] ]
svpwl
monounsaturated fat, saturated fat, trans fat... fat's fat right? fat.
Which ones are good, which ones are bad... and which kind of fat is the fat you can see on a juicy red steak?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/svpwl/eli5_monounsaturated_fat_saturated_fat_trans_fat/
{ "a_id": [ "c4hj021", "c4hjg1g" ], "score": [ 4, 3 ], "text": [ "Fat is a long carbon chain with a bunch of hydrogens attached to all the carbons. There's also a little head at the top of the chain but that's not really all that important for here.\n\nSaturated fat is a straight chain. ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
5r9jsb
since smartphones are basically tiny computers, why aren't people assembling their own phones like we do for computers?
Is it just a matter of everything being too small, and the parts being too specialized? Don't most phones have similar processors and chips etc?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5r9jsb/eli5_since_smartphones_are_basically_tiny/
{ "a_id": [ "dd5g1l4", "dd5gtdh" ], "score": [ 6, 3 ], "text": [ "you got it. same is true of laptops and AIO^*edit PCs.\n\nto gain the nescessary density, the components are uniquely designed to shoehorn together into the specially sized case. all of the bones of a phone are proprietary...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
3jddvn
what's the benifit of working at your desk while standing instead of sitting?
A number of people at my company have something at their desks that they can raise up to stand while working.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3jddvn/eli5_whats_the_benifit_of_working_at_your_desk/
{ "a_id": [ "cuo8rzb", "cuo9shx", "cuo9tzj", "cuoa33c", "cuoakf2", "cuob4hi", "cuob5ib", "cuobtkx", "cuocry0", "cuofnnj", "cuog2c5", "cuog8m9", "cuogd3m", "cuoglcs", "cuognt2", "cuohfr1", "cuohfuq", "cuoje85", "cuokdig", "cuokig9", "c...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [ "http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=uiKg6JfS658" ], [], [], [], [], [ "http://99percentinvisible.org/episode/edge-of-your-seat/" ], [ "http://www.wsj.com/articles/the-benefits-of-fidgeting-for-students-with-adhd-1434994365" ], [], [], [], [ "https://yout...
4k7hml
why can't cryptographic algorithms be reversedly used?
Maybe I didn't explain myself good enough in the question: If I understand correctly, for cryptographic algorithms like SHA-256 you put your input (for instance, "Hello, world!") and the algorithm makes some kind of steps (I guess always the same steps) to transform it into a string of numbers and letters. So, if I a...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4k7hml/eli5_why_cant_cryptographic_algorithms_be/
{ "a_id": [ "d3cqol7", "d3cr06y" ], "score": [ 7, 2 ], "text": [ "SHA and other hash algorithms are one way only. That's not so strange: addition is also a one-way operation. \n\nTake 3 and 5. Add them, and you get 8. \nIt's not possible to go the other way: if you start with 8 you ca...
[]
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[ [], [] ]
5l6fo4
why when you look at a computer screen from below it seems to change to shades of red and from above shades of blue?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5l6fo4/eli5_why_when_you_look_at_a_computer_screen_from/
{ "a_id": [ "dbtawoq" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "All LCD monitors are made up of tiny red, green, and blue boxes. These boxes are arranged in at least three different layouts, and each layout has its own quirks / weird effects. Think of it like driving by a corn field or watching something thro...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
7g6js1
how do movie prop belt-fed machine guns cycle through rounds that appear to have real projectiles in the casing, and eject an empty casing?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7g6js1/eli5_how_do_movie_prop_beltfed_machine_guns_cycle/
{ "a_id": [ "dqgun37", "dqgvxl4", "dqhcvuj" ], "score": [ 3, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "They probably do some shots firing blanks, but not many because blanks cause jams very frequently.\n\nAfter that it's probably just good camera angles to make you think they are ejecting.", "It depe...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/79/223_Remington.jpg/300px-223_Remington.jpg", "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/55/7.65x17_mm_Browning_ReconTanto.jpg", "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEuZgK669zY&t=97" ] ]
7lyw0i
why are car designs today so mundane opposed to car designs of the past (1930s-1990s)?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7lyw0i/eli5_why_are_car_designs_today_so_mundane_opposed/
{ "a_id": [ "drq3ub8" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "From 1930 to 1990 ish oil especially in America was very cheap so they made all kind of designs and now oil is more expensive so cars have to have aerodynamic designs to save oil. " ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
92b30h
how can we see the light from other planets from earth?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/92b30h/eli5_how_can_we_see_the_light_from_other_planets/
{ "a_id": [ "e34d6ks", "e34d8je", "e34ellf", "e34g77k" ], "score": [ 6, 6, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "The same way we can see the moon, they are basically big sun reflectors, the brightest ones are Venus and Jupiter, one because it reflects a lot and is close, while the latter beca...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
122job
emergency room admission prioritization.
I just feel like there's probably some crazy system in place and I'd like to know more about it in case I ever find myself in a situation.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/122job/eli5_emergency_room_admission_prioritization/
{ "a_id": [ "c6rm0fk", "c6rm3hz", "c6rme05", "c6rpuez", "c6rqtpr" ], "score": [ 10, 40, 3, 7, 2 ], "text": [ "Assuming you're talking about walking in, rather than arriving by ambulance:\n\nThey take you to talk to a nurse who reviews the basics of your case, assumi...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
3sn4wp
how does storing ice cream upside-down prevent it from crystalizing?
When I was younger I remember seeing a local ice cream shop turn all the ice cream upside-down at closing. I was told that it's to help keep it from crystalizing. How is this?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3sn4wp/eli5_how_does_storing_ice_cream_upsidedown/
{ "a_id": [ "cwyzyaf" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Maybe try /r/askscience? Because I've never heard of this, but Googling tells me it's true, so I'd be curious to hear an answer too." ] }
[]
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[ [] ]
1wzh6k
why do sites like reddit need to shutdown for maintenance while sites like youtube does not?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1wzh6k/eli5_why_do_sites_like_reddit_need_to_shutdown/
{ "a_id": [ "cf6r63k", "cf6rdbs" ], "score": [ 6, 10 ], "text": [ "YouTube has multiple servers that they can redirect traffic to while they are fixing a broken server. Reddit does have multiple servers, but not as many as any huge company such as Google, Apple, GoDaddy, etc.\n\nEdit: Cla...
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[]
[ [], [] ]
1yyahh
why are new york guns laws so much more strict than the rest of the country?
The reason that I am asking is because New York Knicks guard is charged with felony possession after his estranged wife gave the gun to the police and told them it was his.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1yyahh/eli5_why_are_new_york_guns_laws_so_much_more/
{ "a_id": [ "cfove9s", "cfoysj7" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "New York politically leans fairly solidly left, and that tends to go hand-in-hand with an anti-gun position. Due to federalism, where many laws and policies are left to the states, each state has the ability to set many of i...
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[]
[ [], [ "http://imgur.com/MZmhqsq" ] ]
4wd5e8
why isn't there a big centrist party in the us?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4wd5e8/eli5_why_isnt_there_a_big_centrist_party_in_the_us/
{ "a_id": [ "d6614fm", "d661a8f", "d6624an" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 4 ], "text": [ "*Both* parties *used* to be a lot more centrist. At this point in time the country is a lot more divisive than it used to be. ", "Normally, the two main parties are either left or right, only becaus...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7tWHJfhiyo" ] ]
jskwm
what's so bad about corporate personhood?
People are always ranting about how "the corporations" are inherently bad, that corporations make unethical decisions, that they're eating our children, etc... I'm pretty liberal in my political views, but I feel I'm not knowledgeable enough to form a proper opinion about "the corporations". What are the good sides of ...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/jskwm/eli5_whats_so_bad_about_corporate_personhood/
{ "a_id": [ "c2esas6", "c2eso7c", "c2esusr", "c2et3vy", "c2esas6", "c2eso7c", "c2esusr", "c2et3vy" ], "score": [ 3, 4, 2, 3, 3, 4, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Corporate personhood essentially absolves those running the corporation of all responsibilit...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://storyofstuff.org/citizensunited/" ], [], [ "http://www.thecorporation.com/" ], [], [ "http://storyofstuff.org/citizensunited/" ], [], [ "http://www.thecorporation.com/" ] ]
a7bs5s
what kind of tax break do filmmakers get when they film their movies/shows in canada?
I've often heard about the attraction for Hollywood to come north to Canada to film movies and TV shows, but I've never understood exactly why. So I'm curious about what tax breaks these filmmakers get, as in the specifics. Why does Canada offer these attractive tax breaks as opposed other countries? Any downsides fina...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/a7bs5s/eli5_what_kind_of_tax_break_do_filmmakers_get/
{ "a_id": [ "ec1qiuh", "ec1uam8", "ec24ro7" ], "score": [ 7, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "The government of Canada, and the provincial governments, give tax credits to film companies that make things cheaper. For example, in British Columbia where Vancouver is located there is a refundable t...
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[]
[ [], [], [] ]
d59al2
why does food residue on dishes become very sticky and hard to remove the longer it is left idle?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/d59al2/eli5_why_does_food_residue_on_dishes_become_very/
{ "a_id": [ "f0kpmu5" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Most of the time its because of processed foods and what is in that food. Most starchy foods will do this like noodles sitting out on a plate after getting wet. Most left over foods will get to a point where they evaporate enough water to become ...
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[ [] ]
d7oasq
why are sfx screens almost always green and not any other colour? why aren't the blue ones as popular?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/d7oasq/eli5_why_are_sfx_screens_almost_always_green_and/
{ "a_id": [ "f12rp2n", "f12sio3", "f12t5q9", "f12tmsu", "f13lrut", "f14titr" ], "score": [ 3, 15, 4, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "I see blue used often. Will smith just posted a video on Instagram where his backdrop was green but he was sitting on a blue box, they ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
1rhepc
fruit flies in my wine?
Outside on a warm summer's evening it takes all of 5 seconds for my glass of cheap box wine to become a swimming pool for these lemmings. What attracts them? As a follow up - I often dip my finger in the surface to rescue them. Trapped within a single drop. I place them on the table and they are able to dry out quickl...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1rhepc/eli5fruit_flies_in_my_wine/
{ "a_id": [ "cdnaciq" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "Fruit flies like fruit. Rotting fruit in particular.\n\nRotting fruit produces alcohol (that's how wine gets made). Fruit flies are attracted to alcohol." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3n6gy9
the logistics of google updating their logo so quickly.
I'm curious how many logos actually needed to be updated. Is it some sort of giant find and replace feature they would have built or was it more manual?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3n6gy9/eli5_the_logistics_of_google_updating_their_logo/
{ "a_id": [ "cvlahcj" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "Web pages aren't stored as one big word-document style file. The images are stored separately from the actual web page file. When you put an image in a web page, you're basically just leaving a note telling a web browser where to find the picture...
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[]
[ [] ]
558t0g
how are write-in names and absentee ballots counted given that election results are announced that same night?
I'm referring to the US Presidential election. Are they only considered if there's a recount, and logistically how are write-ins tallied? Have they ever influenced an outcome?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/558t0g/eli5_how_are_writein_names_and_absentee_ballots/
{ "a_id": [ "d88iaho", "d88id2j", "d88ih1v", "d88isg3", "d88ja4v", "d88pyd9" ], "score": [ 9, 2, 3, 2, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Writein ballots (in states that allow them) and absentee votes are usually a very small percentage of the vote.\n\nIf Candidate A has 40...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://www.journalnow.com/news/elections/state/forsyth-county-sample-ballot/pdf_52d54e0c-2786-11e2-abe2-001a4bcf6878.html" ] ]
8443wz
why does a laser pointer, when shone on a surface, appear to have a grainy,staticky pattern in the beam?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8443wz/eli5_why_does_a_laser_pointer_when_shone_on_a/
{ "a_id": [ "dvmmm3p", "dvmmt3x", "dvn1hj1", "dvn4hgq", "dvn4i7q", "dvn5kk3", "dvndt1w" ], "score": [ 72, 3138, 128, 11, 8, 4, 9 ], "text": [ "What you are referring to is probably laser speckle.\n\nI can't provide an amazing explanation off the top ...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Speckle_pattern" ], [], [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Superposition_principle", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Speckle_pattern" ], [], [] ]
3fidxu
why does the water recede when missives ships pass by close to shore?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3fidxu/eli5_why_does_the_water_recede_when_missives/
{ "a_id": [ "ctow7fd" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Link to the video please. Common sense dicatates that the movement of the boat pushes water away from the bow, creating waves. No water is sucked towards it. When the boat ahs passed, the water will flow back to fill the gap the boat leaves. " ...
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[]
[ [] ]
1ew2qp
how do currency counting machines only grab one bill at a time so quickly and accurately?
It drives me nuts wondering how these machines are able to do this so fast when i have trouble grabbing just one bill using my hands!
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1ew2qp/eli5_how_do_currency_counting_machines_only_grab/
{ "a_id": [ "ca4di5b", "ca4e5np", "ca4fis9", "ca4fjcl" ], "score": [ 35, 61, 2, 10 ], "text": [ "Suction, per my husband, who used to work on ATM machines. ", "They use rollers with a rubbery surface that grab one bill from the bottom of a stack (just like your printer...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
7wr4u2
how is a camera able to "see"? (also, what are photons and how do they work?)
I'm struggling to understand the concept of what exactly photons are and how they're responsible for things like light and all that. I've also wondered for the longest time how cameras are able to "see" whatever is in front of it. I know the two are connected, I'm just not sure how. Using analogies will help me underst...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7wr4u2/eli5_how_is_a_camera_able_to_see_also_what_are/
{ "a_id": [ "du2k7h4" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Photons are units of electromagnetic energy, just like electrons can be thought of as units of electricity. They're radiated off by particles as the particles lose energy. That energy is carried by photons.\n\nElectromagnetic energy comes on a sp...
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[]
[ [] ]
2siona
the feeling of a 'broken heart'.
What causes the body to feel like it does after a break it?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2siona/eli5_the_feeling_of_a_broken_heart/
{ "a_id": [ "cnptqgg", "cnqbn5s" ], "score": [ 9, 5 ], "text": [ "wouldnt it have something to do with hormone levels? when you are crushing on someone or are in love your serotonin and endorfins etc are constantly raised. once you loose that source of \"joy\" its kind of like withdrawal f...
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[]
[ [], [] ]
1i37fq
some questions about wireless routers
I was looking through my wireless router's configuration page (I'm not sure if that's the correct term for it, it's where I could see details about the router and change settings) and I realized I didn't know what a lot of it meant. I have a few questions: 1) What is the MAC Address? Why would I need to know it and wh...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1i37fq/eli5_some_questions_about_wireless_routers/
{ "a_id": [ "cb0jfyn", "cb0jpf1", "cb0jr7w" ], "score": [ 5, 9, 3 ], "text": [ "1) MAC Address is a unique identifier that is specific to that physical device. it's set at the factory as part of the manufacturing process, and it can be used to identify that specific device uniquely...
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[]
[ [], [], [] ]
302mai
the difference if i bought a 3.5 ghz i5 processor or a 3.5 ghz i7
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/302mai/eli5_the_difference_if_i_bought_a_35_ghz_i5/
{ "a_id": [ "cpoj8s2", "cponv4m" ], "score": [ 22, 2 ], "text": [ "So I'm going to make some assumptions here:\n\n1. The i5 and i7 are from the same processor generation. There have been five generations of processors to go under the \"Core i\" series name, and there are major performance ...
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[]
[ [], [] ]
dqo1dp
does rising co2 levels make it more difficult for humans to breathe? is it safe to breathe air with a higher concentration of co2 than we are used to?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dqo1dp/eli5_does_rising_co2_levels_make_it_more/
{ "a_id": [ "f67g0gp", "f67gfzn", "f695yue" ], "score": [ 5, 4, 3 ], "text": [ "No humans use CO2 levels in our bodies to register when to breathe when the concentration reaches too high an internal level we breathe, drastically reducing oxygen levels like at high altitudes is an i...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://youtu.be/cF0rwEd05VY" ], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_dioxide#Toxicity" ], [] ]
1l2185
why can the brain not be "turned on" again once it's died?
I've never really thought about it before, but I was reading a book about various experiments the other night, some of which involved attempting to reverse death, and I got to wondering; Why can't the brain etc be restarted by pumping blood or whatever artificially? I mean, the brain will be getting its necessary oxyg...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1l2185/eli5_why_can_the_brain_not_be_turned_on_again/
{ "a_id": [ "cbuz8pi" ], "score": [ 6 ], "text": [ "The moment you die, you start decaying. The softer the tissue, the quicker it goes, and the brain is very soft. Our memories and skills and all that are formed by a network of electric signals. The most obvious comparison is RAM memory in compute...
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[ [] ]
1q1cgq
why doesn't the earth's oxygen escape into space?
If space is mostly a vacuum, what is stopping Earth's gasses from "diffusing" or "escaping"? Are there cases where gasses in space enter Earth? I tried googling for simple answers which turned up terms like "atmospheric escape" and "solar wind" which in themselves are difficult to understand
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1q1cgq/eli5_why_doesnt_the_earths_oxygen_escape_into/
{ "a_id": [ "cd85jsb", "cd85nhk", "cd85pzz", "cd85q7x", "cd860gv", "cd89c4j" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 3, 6, 4, 2 ], "text": [ "Gravity. If the earth were smaller, it all would have escaped long ago. The larger the planet, the lighter the molecules it can keep in...
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
4ke1ra
why do some societies not accept men grooming themselves the way women do ?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4ke1ra/eli5_why_do_some_societies_not_accept_men/
{ "a_id": [ "d3eiz2o" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "If you mean like shaving / waxing or such, it probably boils down to something as simple as it not being seen as \"many\" or being \"effeminate\", combine that with the idea of \"the weaker sex\" and you've just labeled yourself as weak in compar...
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[ [] ]
1r2wld
on a motorbike, if you drove at the speed and direction of wind, would you feel/hear any air passing by?
On a motorbike, if you drove at the speed and direction of wind, would you feel/hear any air passing by? Or like if you had a mustache would the mustache be sitting totally still on your face due to no wind making it flutter?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1r2wld/eli5_on_a_motorbike_if_you_drove_at_the_speed_and/
{ "a_id": [ "cdj0lk1", "cdj0okb", "cdj0ptc", "cdj0tw3" ], "score": [ 4, 3, 2, 6 ], "text": [ "Theoretically, this would be correct. However, rarely does wind blow in exactly the same direction of a road. And even if it did, it often changes direction and speed.", "no.\n...
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
30o5tz
why do loose teeth that children expel as part of the growing process always appear to be broken?
Asking from my own experience as a child, and as a parent. I've never seen a baby tooth lost come out with a root. What is the deal?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/30o5tz/eli5_why_do_loose_teeth_that_children_expel_as/
{ "a_id": [ "cpu7pld", "cpu7q2o" ], "score": [ 3, 4 ], "text": [ "They are not broken. The permanent teeth underneath push up against the roots of the baby teeth and that pressure has the roots dissolving which makes it easier for them to fall out. Part of the root is reabsorbed by the per...
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[ [], [] ]
dymtnq
lsd
What is LSD, what does it do to your brain and the reason it's not lethal even at large doses?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dymtnq/eli5_lsd/
{ "a_id": [ "f825e3b", "f82bn2c", "f82jqah", "f83qphg", "f83tvpg", "f83xmgf", "f83zcni", "f840ipc", "f84bl8s" ], "score": [ 4708, 315, 116, 2, 16, 16, 15, 10, 2 ], "text": [ "Edit: **I want to make a note here that all the stuff I wro...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kary_Mullis", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kary\\_Mullis" ], [], [ "https://old.reddit.com/r/RationalPsychonaut/comments/d4939y/links_to_the_psychdelic_studies_that_are_actually/f09cabt/" ] ]
9h9ce6
does anyone know why these 'metal soaps' that remove odour work?
I just have people insisting that they work or using them instead of soap. This baffles my neanderthal brain. Any help is appreciated
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9h9ce6/eli5_does_anyone_know_why_these_metal_soaps_that/
{ "a_id": [ "e6a6fkv", "e6apuke", "e6b1fev", "e6c08ez" ], "score": [ 102, 47, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "The molecules in the steel bind with the sulfur molecules left on your fingers from things like garlic and onions, and when you rub your hands against the steel under cold water...
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[]
[ [], [], [ "www.antimicrobialcopper.org/uk/faqs" ], [] ]
4pfwhm
since the beginning men have always fought and perished in plenty wars all over the planet, why isn't there an abundance of women?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4pfwhm/eli5_since_the_beginning_men_have_always_fought/
{ "a_id": [ "d4klbgp", "d4klecv", "d4klf1t", "d4kp0mm", "d4l6aaz" ], "score": [ 7, 16, 17, 116, 3 ], "text": [ "Before the modern era, women frequently died in childbirth. Having babies was dangerous due to lack of medical knowledge, lack of safe c sections, lack of...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fisher%27s_principle", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_sex_ratio" ], [], [] ]
cgtpnq
how does the open refrigerator at the store with cheese, butter, etc. not spoil the food, but our refrigerators at home need to be closed?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/cgtpnq/eli5_how_does_the_open_refrigerator_at_the_store/
{ "a_id": [ "eukxbrz", "eukxm8l", "eukxvi4", "euky77f", "eukz3jh", "eul09tx", "eulcfl4", "eumed7c" ], "score": [ 2, 9, 5, 30, 2, 2, 3, 3 ], "text": [ "There are fans that blow cold air around, creating an air curtain. As far as I am aware, th...
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
a6j43h
why are asian languages often mistranslated into english so poorly?
After seeing this post _URL_0_ It occurred to me that most incorrect translations (often hilarious) are from an Asian languages to English. Why is this so prevalent?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/a6j43h/eli5_why_are_asian_languages_often_mistranslated/
{ "a_id": [ "ebv8vww", "ebv95yy", "ebv9cy3" ], "score": [ 4, 6, 2 ], "text": [ "Often it's because in some isolated Asian location the company cannot locate a native English speaker, and they make the mistake of assuming that anyone with a dictionary can translate decently.", "...
[]
[ "https://www.reddit.com/r/funny/comments/a6hm3i/jerk_chicken/?utm_source=reddit-android" ]
[ [], [], [] ]
1rdcjg
why are almost all processor companies (intel, amd, qualcomm, nvidia, etc.) u.s. companies?
I heard that the fabricators that Intel uses to create their processors are top secret, but is that keeping foreign companies left behind to play catch up?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1rdcjg/eli5_why_are_almost_all_processor_companies_intel/
{ "a_id": [ "cdm3auh", "cdm5s6q" ], "score": [ 2, 3 ], "text": [ "The US electronics industry saw a lot of production move overseas as Asian electronics companies were increasingly able to produce cheaper radios, audio equipment, televisions and commodity chips at equal or better quality. ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
5ifq9i
why does air hitting your face at high speeds feel like a bunch of chunks of air rather than one constant breeze?
This question might not make a whole lot of sense but hear me out: If the wind is blowing I feel a sustained and breeze, but if I stick my head out the window it feels like chunks of air hitting my face rapidly in random places rather than just a faster-sustained breeze. Why is this?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5ifq9i/eli5_why_does_air_hitting_your_face_at_high/
{ "a_id": [ "db7uby4", "db84fqr" ], "score": [ 4, 3 ], "text": [ "Because your face isn't aerodynamic. You know when you throw a rock into a pond and it makes ripples? That's what your face is doing to the air, so it's \"choppy\" and not fluid anymore.", "Turbulence.\n\nIf you are outs...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vortex_shedding" ] ]
267ecx
how do they get small children, toddlers or younger, to act in tv shows and movies?
I thought about this when watching Full House reruns. How do they get 1-2 year old Nicki and Alex to say or even remember their lines? How do they keep the children's attention for as long as it takes to film a scene? How does the child know or understand to be sad or happy, do this or that? How do they explain all the...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/267ecx/eli5_how_do_they_get_small_children_toddlers_or/
{ "a_id": [ "chod03g", "choeblq", "choqfdq", "chowifx", "chp0uk0" ], "score": [ 66, 14, 3, 3, 3 ], "text": [ " > How do they get 1-2 year old Nicki and Alex to say or even remember their lines?\n\nThey don't. Almost every time you see them speak, it is a close up s...
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[ [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QFey7RZNCk" ], [], [], [] ]
3k5bjp
what would happen if you put a car in reverse while you are moving forward at a reasonable speed?
I have always wondered what would happen if i accidentally shifted from D to R while driving. Thanks
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3k5bjp/eli5_what_would_happen_if_you_put_a_car_in/
{ "a_id": [ "cuuwzjr", "cuuxcmd", "cuuzq3x" ], "score": [ 4, 5, 2 ], "text": [ "In a standard transmission it's basically impossible. The gears that need to mesh up are spinning so fast and in opposite directions that they'll just make an awful buzzing/grinding noise.\n\nIn a moder...
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[]
[ [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hakNxO5pME4" ], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hakNxO5pME4" ] ]
1wo2do
how do tiny non island countries exist?
I was thinking about this last night, and while I think I get the current political reasons, why at some point say 100 years ago didn't the French army just march on Monaco and inform everyone they were French now? Or Liechtenstein, I think the Swiss agree to protect them, but why? What possible benefit does that...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1wo2do/eli5_how_do_tiny_non_island_countries_exist/
{ "a_id": [ "cf3tczk", "cf3uiut" ], "score": [ 7, 3 ], "text": [ "It's mostly tradition and face saving. It varies, of course. Vatican City will have differing reasons for still existing than Andorra, but generally, it's about preserving the status of a family or organization while remov...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
12svai
why is the stock market going down after the election?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/12svai/eli5_why_is_the_stock_market_going_down_after_the/
{ "a_id": [ "c6xtvlc", "c6xtzox", "c6xu7l5", "c6xurvb" ], "score": [ 7, 7, 3, 20 ], "text": [ "It's public perception of the future. In general, republicans are considered to be more business friendly than democrats. \n\nSince Romney lost the election, investor confidence h...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [ "http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-20242510" ] ]
5ceuhc
how does mathematical modeling work?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5ceuhc/eli5how_does_mathematical_modeling_work/
{ "a_id": [ "d9vvnvl", "d9vwrbx", "d9w05k4" ], "score": [ 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "It really depends on what type of model you are talking about, but at a high level a mathematical model is just a series of related equations that all come together to spit out a specific answer (or se...
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[]
[ [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Logistic_function" ], [] ]
1wwksu
why do girls get so emotional (angry/sad) during their period? is there an evolutional reason?
Im a girl and during my period I cry over commercials, get mad at everybody over nothing. What's the use of this? I mean, are or were these moodswings useful?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1wwksu/eli5_why_do_girls_get_so_emotional_angrysad/
{ "a_id": [ "cf609fy" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Its evolution telling men to stay away for the next 5 days" ] }
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[ [] ]
2cvehc
if sperm carries a mans dna and the egg carries the woman's dna. why is each kid different? with the millions of sperm in the average ejaculation, are they all completely different people theoretically
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2cvehc/eli5_if_sperm_carries_a_mans_dna_and_the_egg/
{ "a_id": [ "cjje02p" ], "score": [ 16 ], "text": [ "Sperm and egg cells are created through the process of meiosis. Without going into detail, your sperm (and eggs) do not carry an exact copy of your DNA. You DNA consists of chromosomes (a set of genes) from your mother and another set of analogo...
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[]
[ [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qCLmR9-YY7o&feature=player_detailpage" ] ]
9dit1a
why is italy worldwide known for its coffee, while not producing a single bean in their territory?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9dit1a/eli5_why_is_italy_worldwide_known_for_its_coffee/
{ "a_id": [ "e5hu7ui", "e5hw6na", "e5i6sfa", "e5i9doh" ], "score": [ 13, 4, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Their coffee methodology — grinds, various methods of preparation, and the culture behind it. Massive innovation in the way they deal with coffee, vs much of the rest of the worl...
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[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
cqs2sz
why couldnt older humans have infinite transplants using younger organs to stay alive?
I read somewhere that people die of old age due to organ failure. Could younger organ donors be the answer to living forever? Theoretically if could withstand all operations that they would undergo.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/cqs2sz/eli5_why_couldnt_older_humans_have_infinite/
{ "a_id": [ "ewyspw2", "ewystkl", "ewythxz", "ex08vr3" ], "score": [ 20, 7, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "1. Organ transplants involve cutting you open and replacing a failed organ. This causes a lot of trauma to the surrounding area and the body as a whole. You also need to take anti...
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[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
4nfljo
what is a hedge fund?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4nfljo/eli5_what_is_a_hedge_fund/
{ "a_id": [ "d43gve1", "d43ipri", "d43k3h8", "d43l0go", "d43ljr5", "d43lq53", "d43n26t", "d43nbes", "d43nh1q", "d43p1yw", "d43qz0w", "d43rxra", "d43t1sg", "d43t3t0", "d43tdyt", "d43tycw", "d43xhg0", "d43xp95", "d43xzqu", "d43y6i3", "d...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [ "https://netrunnerdb.com/en/card/01110" ], [], [], [], [], [ "https://www.quora.com/What-are-some-weird-hedge-fund-strategies" ], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
3w5dlo
why does fiber optics perform better than copper in terms of internet speed (upload, download)?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3w5dlo/eli5_why_does_fiber_optics_perform_better_than/
{ "a_id": [ "cxtibxu", "cxtjxzt", "cxtk3w2", "cxtkwdz", "cxtte7a" ], "score": [ 3, 8, 11, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "You can transmit more information through them than through copper cable. Therefore the ISP can afford to sell you better internet speeds without worrying as...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "http://networkengineering.stackexchange.com/questions/16438/speed-of-light-in-copper-vs-fiber-why-is-fiber-better" ], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fiber-optic_communication#Transmission_windows" ], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shannon–Hartley_theorem" ] ]
artg79
why is it impossible to make dough from bread that has been baked?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/artg79/eli5_why_is_it_impossible_to_make_dough_from/
{ "a_id": [ "egplxhf", "egpm134" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "The yeast in the bread dough is killed off during Baking. Without the yeast the loaf won't rise and bake properly.\n\nI dont know if adding yeast to crushed up bread would work.", "Imagine smoking the ash from the joint ...
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[ [], [] ]
3mkawx
how gifs like this are made
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3mkawx/eli5_how_gifs_like_this_are_made/
{ "a_id": [ "cvfrith" ], "score": [ 8 ], "text": [ "CG Supervisor here. It's a little bit complicated to explain this method to people unfamiliar with how a certain plugin works within after effects, but maybe i can record a quick video screen capture of the process if I get enough requests.\n\n*...
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[ [ "https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/bg4si.u47vmbTrQ0mA8mfA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjtzbT0xO3c9NTAwO2g9NTAw/http://38.media.tumblr.com/001728ad902f32d38b853ce35e6eefa1/tumblr_inline_nuorz1O1h51s5im49_500.gif", "http://gfycat.com/QuarrelsomeAdorableIrishterrier#?speed=6" ] ]
5izi3y
why didn't nations in the past have to conquer all the enemy's territory to win a war?
It is so different to read about military fronts from the WW1/WW2 and the Hundred Years' War for example. There's WW2 and the Eastern Front: when the Axis advanced into the Soviet territory, the frontline was longer than 2000 kilometers, and both sides had their soldiers distributed evenly (or relatively evenly, impo...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5izi3y/eli5why_didnt_nations_in_the_past_have_to_conquer/
{ "a_id": [ "dbc5jjk", "dbc5kfd", "dbc5lhe", "dbc62hp", "dbc87tg", "dbci6sc" ], "score": [ 3, 15, 5, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Because as now, most people do not want a war, most people do not even give a damn about which government is in power, most people just...
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
8jp328
why is fire not dangerous to stare at, as opposed to something like the sun? (ex: bonfires)
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8jp328/eli5_why_is_fire_not_dangerous_to_stare_at_as/
{ "a_id": [ "dz1c9ia", "dz1cbuq", "dz1d4d4", "dz1d9uu" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 5, 3 ], "text": [ "It’ll already be uncomfortable to stare at an uncovered 100W light bulb. Now consider that the sun is 3,800,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 times brighter than that bulb. ", "W...
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
30oo4o
if your head gets separated from your body do you die instantly? if not, could you still feel pain in your body or do your nerves not work the same?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/30oo4o/eli5_if_your_head_gets_separated_from_your_body/
{ "a_id": [ "cpud4qa", "cpud8uc", "cpud9xt", "cpudzx1", "cpuigmj", "cpuiqta", "cpuk256", "cpul9js", "cpurhx7", "cpvbpp1" ], "score": [ 40, 27, 16, 7, 2, 15, 2, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "As far as deaths go, beheading is rather fas...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://www.executedtoday.com/2008/06/28/1905-henri-languille-a-man-of-science/" ], [], [], [], [] ]
1mcjf0
why do those car-accident lawyers exist (like in texas) if everyone is required by law to have car insurance anyways?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1mcjf0/eli5_why_do_those_caraccident_lawyers_exist_like/
{ "a_id": [ "cc7w1xg", "cc7w3ja", "cc7w525", "cc80j9a" ], "score": [ 8, 6, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Because not everyone does", "Not only do some people not have insurance, many insurance companies will stiff-arm the victims and tell them they aren't entitled because of bulls...
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[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
egndb9
why when we sit on the toilet for a prolonged time we get 'static legs', but not when we sit down regularly, in class for instance, for a far longer time?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/egndb9/eli5_why_when_we_sit_on_the_toilet_for_a/
{ "a_id": [ "fc7ovpx", "fc7p0ip" ], "score": [ 12, 8 ], "text": [ "Because your elbows are pressing on your thighs and you’re leaning forward while you look at your phone.", "A combination of the low seat height of the toilet causing the seat to dig into the back of your thighs as well...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
3jcb2l
how did medieval engineers aim catapults (or trebuchets)?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3jcb2l/eli5_how_did_medieval_engineers_aim_catapults_or/
{ "a_id": [ "cuo0672" ], "score": [ 8 ], "text": [ "They did some pretty serious math when it came to picking a site for the siege engine and then building it. Remember that these things were way too big to move around and most of them were built on site by the engineers. Once they were set up the...
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[ [] ]
95kk9d
union membership in the usa
In the U.K., you can join a workplace union. They vary in size depending on the type of work. My employer recognises four different unions covering about 20,000 people - though those unions have hundreds of thousands of other members employed elsewhere too. I pay a union fee. It entitles me to certain things: voting i...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/95kk9d/eli5_union_membership_in_the_usa/
{ "a_id": [ "e3thc35", "e3tnv3v" ], "score": [ 5, 2 ], "text": [ "Most US \"labor unions\" (as they call them) were formed by a majority of the relevant workers at whatever company they operate with, and under American law they then negotiate conditions for *all* such workers, members or n...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
dm7ws9
why does debt such as loans (automobile, home, consolidation, etc.) increase your credit score but credit card debt decreases it?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dm7ws9/eli5_why_does_debt_such_as_loans_automobile_home/
{ "a_id": [ "f4z5t6v" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "Banks are looking for people who pay their money back in the way that it was originally agreed upon. So if you if you have a mortgage and pay the correct rate every month, that is good. If you have a credit card and pay it off on time, that is go...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
ayc83n
why do re-released video games sometimes have issues with music licensing when re-released movies seemingly don't have this issue?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ayc83n/eli5_why_do_rereleased_video_games_sometimes_have/
{ "a_id": [ "ehzosc8", "ehzr4e5", "ehzsklv" ], "score": [ 12, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Movies do have this issue as well. \n\nCheck out the original Wayne's World: _URL_0_\n\nCompared to Video release:\n_URL_1_\n\nThe joke doesn't make any sense.\n\nBut in general it happens less because...
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[]
[ [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xXlYt5JCrZw", "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RD1KqbDdmuE" ], [], [] ]
2kcxkt
how are people with adhd good at video games when it requires a lot of concentration?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2kcxkt/eli5_how_are_people_with_adhd_good_at_video_games/
{ "a_id": [ "clk2qg9", "clk2s5e", "clk311g", "clk32xx" ], "score": [ 2, 4, 7, 2 ], "text": [ "ELI5:Because all the distractions in the game play with their head really well", "It activates the frontal lobe and stimulates what's known as the \"Mastiobigenesis.\" it's a s...
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[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
3ovpec
"three guesses, and the first two don't count"
I've heard this phrase all my life, and while **I understand the idiomatic meaning** (that something is very easy to guess), I don't understand the literal translation of the phrase. If it's easy to guess, why would the first two guesses not count? Shouldn't the person be able to get it in the first try, if it's that...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3ovpec/eli5_three_guesses_and_the_first_two_dont_count/
{ "a_id": [ "cy2hcm1", "cw0ub9u", "cw0uh3l" ], "score": [ 2, 5, 3 ], "text": [ "I think your last theory is correct.\n\nIt probably derives slightly from 'three strikes and you're out'. The logic is that since the question is so easy to answer, even if we took away your first two t...
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[ [], [], [] ]
8g0efa
why doctors are so often not timely with their appointments and don’t compensate you for your inconvenience if you run late?
It is common to wait for 30-60 or more minutes past your appointment time for doctors appointments. Why are they so untimely compared to say, restaurant reservations? Why don’t they offer compensation to their paying customers (e.g. pick up the copay) the way a restaurant will give you free drinks, appetizers, etc if a...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8g0efa/eli5_why_doctors_are_so_often_not_timely_with/
{ "a_id": [ "dy7tku0", "dy7tv0l", "dy7u985", "dy7w0ds", "dy8alru" ], "score": [ 5, 2, 6, 4, 2 ], "text": [ "Because they are expected to spend 15 min or less with a patient and that rarely is sufficient time to fill out the paperwork let alone give and accurate exam...
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[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
8qwhpt
why do most of canadians live in such a small, cramped area, instead of using all the open land?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8qwhpt/eli5_why_do_most_of_canadians_live_in_such_a/
{ "a_id": [ "e0ml4qy", "e0ml6ww", "e0mmq6s", "e0mxq0x", "e0myyzc" ], "score": [ 40, 15, 13, 6, 4 ], "text": [ "Because the \"open land\" you are talking about is mostly inhospitable, extremely difficult to travel, or otherwise unsuitable for continuous human habitat...
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[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
7negwe
catalan independence movement
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7negwe/eli5_catalan_independence_movement/
{ "a_id": [ "ds19p0a" ], "score": [ 11 ], "text": [ "Catalonia is culturally distinct from the rest of Spain. They have their own language and their own cultural traditions. Their culture was suppressed during Franco's reign, so even though that's no longer going on, the memory of it still makes s...
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2wxu2y
why don't the police punish cops who do the wrong thing? what do they get out of transparent corruption?
Are there really so few cops that they can't let a few bad eggs go?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2wxu2y/eli5_why_dont_the_police_punish_cops_who_do_the/
{ "a_id": [ "cov38j3", "cov38mw" ], "score": [ 2, 6 ], "text": [ "Cops who do the wrong thing (as judged by an official process and not public opinion) are punished so I'm not sure what your question refers to. Could you clarify?", "Plenty of cops get in trouble for doing the wrong th...
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7j8x94
what causes your mouth to taste so bad after forgetting to brush your teeth the previous night?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7j8x94/eli5_what_causes_your_mouth_to_taste_so_bad_after/
{ "a_id": [ "dr4kdo9" ], "score": [ 6 ], "text": [ "Bacteria are able to reproduce very quickly when you give them food and put them in a humid environment. Just like how milk goes bad if you leave it out.\n\nIt becomes difficult to deal with because the bacteria will just form bio mats all over, ...
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2rlneb
after the dramatic slowdown of the arrests by the seudo strike by the nypd, why can't the city simply fire or reduce the size of their police force?
The NYPD is essentially refusing to do its job and yet New York hasn’t collapsed into chaos. If according to the statistics, citations for traffic violations fell by 94 percent, from 10,069 to 587, summonses for low-level offenses like public drinking and urination plunged 94 percent — from 4,831 to 300. and parking v...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2rlneb/eli5_after_the_dramatic_slowdown_of_the_arrests/
{ "a_id": [ "cnh0ose", "cnh2fqk" ], "score": [ 4, 2 ], "text": [ "People peeing outside or not paying at the meter isn't really hurting anyone except the city itself from the loss of revenue. The NYPD is still responding to the emergency calls, but they are making sure the mayor is seeing ...
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[ [], [] ]
nw48t
why do we get 'butterflys'?
Why do you get that butterflys feeling when your nervous/ talking to someone you like/ about to perform something ETC?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/nw48t/why_do_we_get_butterflys/
{ "a_id": [ "c3cg1xf", "c3cgfjk", "c3cg1xf", "c3cgfjk" ], "score": [ 3, 6, 3, 6 ], "text": [ "They're caused by adrenaline pulling the blood out of the stomach, which produces the subsequent feelings", "Slight expansion on visvires:\n\nGenerally, about 1/3 of your blood...
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6lirph
are humans omnivores? why do so many vegans argue we are herbivores?
I am getting assaulted on facebook by OMNI deniers. Pls. Help. " Lions are natural meat eaters. People are herbivores. Look at our teeth. We don't kill with our physical bodies. We inclose animals and kill them with machinery. People are physically killing themselves eating meat. It is scientifically proven to cause 9...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6lirph/eli5_are_humans_omnivores_why_do_so_many_vegans/
{ "a_id": [ "dju5e8f", "dju5fc4", "dju82cy", "djuaydw", "djuoy2n", "djuwn4s", "djv2uy2", "djv340x", "djv4zrl", "djvy3db" ], "score": [ 90, 64, 22, 5, 3, 2, 5, 3, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Yes, humans are omnivores. However, vegans wo...
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "nutritionfacts.org" ], [], [], [] ]
24dtug
why is a store legally allowed to not refund my money of a returned purchase but give me store credit instead?
I feel like they're stealing if I don't want to do business there after or want their products. What if I just wanted my money back?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/24dtug/eli5_why_is_a_store_legally_allowed_to_not_refund/
{ "a_id": [ "ch64rul" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "In general they're not required to accept your return at all. Have you ever seen \"all sales final\" at a store? So putting limitations on the way they voluntarily choose to allow returns is going to be legal. Any requirement that stores **mus...
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2r1l2z
why do forks typically have exactly four tines?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2r1l2z/eli5why_do_forks_typically_have_exactly_four_tines/
{ "a_id": [ "cnbk5so" ], "score": [ 20 ], "text": [ "If you're interested in this it's covered in the book [The Evolution of Useful Things](_URL_0_) .\n\n\n\nIf you click on the 'surprise me' page a few times you might get to see page 10 on which it spends a little time talking about how the fork ...
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[ [ "http://www.amazon.com/Evolution-Useful-Things-Artifacts--Zippers-Came/dp/0679740392/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1420152612&sr=1-2&keywords=invention+of+everyday+things" ] ]
46wb4e
why is it wrong to correct people when they make a grammatical error (or any error for that matter)? aren't you helping that person out by pointing out their mistake?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/46wb4e/eli5why_is_it_wrong_to_correct_people_when_they/
{ "a_id": [ "d08a6av", "d08a7lw", "d08aa9i", "d08ad0m", "d08bjbf", "d08gx5r", "d08hz8p" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2, 15, 17, 2, 5 ], "text": [ "Because instead of creating a worthwhile response to the person. You're pointing out a mistake they didn't even ...
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[ [], [], [], [], [ "http://youtu.be/J7E-aoXLZGY" ], [ "http://www.amazon.com/Language-Instinct-Mind-Creates-P-S/dp/0061336467/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1456087827&sr=8-1&keywords=the+language+instinct", "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7Un06tDOn0" ], [ "https://www.youtube.c...
9s5h9d
; if you were to stop mastrubating for the rest of your life, what would happen to all the sperm that is being produced? will it just go into nothingness, or will it be broken down as a part of some process inside you? or what will actually happen to it?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9s5h9d/eli5_if_you_were_to_stop_mastrubating_for_the/
{ "a_id": [ "e8m7qnz" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Nothing ever just goes into nothingness; it can only be transformed into something else. Unused sperm deteriorate with age and if used won't successfully fertilize an egg so they are - just like all other cells the body doesn't need - broken dow...
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3dczmi
if you want a tattoo removed, why can't you tattoo over it with ink that matches your skin colour?
Seems the easiest way surely
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3dczmi/eli5_if_you_want_a_tattoo_removed_why_cant_you/
{ "a_id": [ "ct3ynuy", "ct3yokf", "ct3znr8" ], "score": [ 8, 26, 5 ], "text": [ "It is hard to match skin color. Your tattoo of skin color will not tan with the rest of your skin. No tattoo artist can stock skin color. Skin color varies from person to person.", "The new ink wou...
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[ [], [], [] ]
9xlvyi
the german educational system
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9xlvyi/eli5_the_german_educational_system/
{ "a_id": [ "e9t9e7g", "e9tdpof", "e9tdsm8", "e9teh3x", "e9tofuu", "e9u46r0" ], "score": [ 129, 6, 17, 5, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "You go to kindergarten for a few years, usually when your kid is between 3 and 6 years.\nThis is not in the educational system, howev...
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5n1ye7
please explain to me the mythos created by hp lovecraft
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5n1ye7/eli5please_explain_to_me_the_mythos_created_by_hp/
{ "a_id": [ "dc83bo8", "dc84fce" ], "score": [ 5, 2 ], "text": [ "The point of Cthulhu and the rest of Love craft works is about the fear of the unknown. Nothing is ever fully explained which is kind of the point.\n\nI would suggest getting a hold of the penguin publication \"Call of Cthul...
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[ [], [] ]
jlx0g
why does it seem like all australian animals/insects want to kill you, and why are their european counterparts so tame in comparison?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/jlx0g/why_does_it_seem_like_all_australian/
{ "a_id": [ "c2d6uv5", "c2d6uv5" ], "score": [ 5, 5 ], "text": [ "There were many animals that could be considered quite dangerous in Europe. However, European population growth and the domestification of \"useful\" animals created an incentive for the survival of only tame species. Thos...
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[ [], [] ]
1xcz6c
how do steadicams work?
In addition to the mechanical aspect, what purpose(s) do they fill in filmmaking?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1xcz6c/eli5_how_do_steadicams_work/
{ "a_id": [ "cfa8lgz" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Steadicams mount the camera on a complex mount with hinges and springs so the camera stays steady even as the cameraman moves around. You get a very smooth shot, like you would with a more fixed mount, but have the freedom of motion of a person. ...
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7f0dzx
how do shopping cart anti-theft wheel locks work?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7f0dzx/eli5_how_do_shopping_cart_antitheft_wheel_locks/
{ "a_id": [ "dq8lyf5" ], "score": [ 6 ], "text": [ "There is a braking device inside the wheels which contains a radio receiver. Around the boundary of the store grounds is a transmitter loop, much like an invisible dog fence, putting out a signal.\n\nWhen the cart crosses the invisible fence, it...
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3p0u0o
why aren't all cars made from carbon fiber since it is lighter, stronger and cheaper than steel?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3p0u0o/eli5_why_arent_all_cars_made_from_carbon_fiber/
{ "a_id": [ "cw25d8h", "cw25foc", "cw26w5z", "cw275b6", "cw28c3q" ], "score": [ 20, 4, 3, 2, 4 ], "text": [ "I'd really like to see your reference that it's \"cheaper than steel\" because that would be a remarkable manufacturing achievement.", "From my research ...
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dbhk59
what makes the quality difference between knock offs and original products?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dbhk59/eli5_what_makes_the_quality_difference_between/
{ "a_id": [ "f21xqtu" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "Well, to touch specifically on the materials, \"plastic is plastic\" isn't true. There are different industrial grades of plastics, as there are metals. \n\nHeadphones for instance. The cone that vibrates within the earpiece is made of lots of me...
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157740
if i were to put rogaine (or a similar hair growing/hair loss preventative substance) on my face, would it make my beard thicker?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/157740/eli5_if_i_were_to_put_rogaine_or_a_similar_hair/
{ "a_id": [ "c7k1pxb", "c7k3knl", "c7kdio6" ], "score": [ 4, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "If I remember correctly rogaine works by stimulating dormant hair follicles so no it wouldnt make it grow in thicker. Just give it time, shave regularly and it will grow in", "As far as I know hair ...
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5ovnum
why does adding slow motion to certain videos create a shutter effect?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5ovnum/eli5_why_does_adding_slow_motion_to_certain/
{ "a_id": [ "dcmfd5g" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Imagine you have a video. You open it in your video software. After some investigation, you learn your video is 1 second long and consists of 24 individuals photos of a cat running. Cute!\n\nBut one of your friends comes along. She isn't very imp...
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6831cn
how does a mirror help to fix phantom limb syndrome?
Can't remember where I saw this. If a nerve is sending pain signals, surely just looking at it in a mirror wont stop the pain? Thanks
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6831cn/eli5_how_does_a_mirror_help_to_fix_phantom_limb/
{ "a_id": [ "dgvaxm5", "dgvep73", "dgvkytg", "dhw0ot4" ], "score": [ 4, 5, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "You saw it on a Ted talk. The mirror is positioned so the person with the missing limb sees the reflection of the remaining limb, which tells the brain the missing limb is still th...
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[ [], [], [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h0QiGj9eOOw&t", "http://www.mirrorvisualfeedback.com" ] ]
3ipkka
why are american houses often of such poor quality?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3ipkka/eli5_why_are_american_houses_often_of_such_poor/
{ "a_id": [ "cuih45d", "cuih5xz", "cuihmqm", "cuihotq", "cuihpnt", "cuihrd5", "cuihvgs", "cuihxb8", "cuiogrt" ], "score": [ 7, 12, 11, 7, 18, 25, 5, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Maybe their houses are the same strength as ours. It might be just...
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8fc1j6
why can a person sing with another singer or music but not by themselves?
Sometimes when a person sings with a recording, the music and another singer they can hold the tune and notes, and sound good but when they sing by themselves without music or another singer they can't hold the tune or notes. Why is that?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8fc1j6/eli5_why_can_a_person_sing_with_another_singer_or/
{ "a_id": [ "dy28a7k" ], "score": [ 6 ], "text": [ "You don't have to find the note if it's being produced for you. If you start out sounding flat compared to the recording, you adjust. If you're rushing or dragging, the recording will pull you back into correct time. No such luxury when you're si...
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5621mw
how would a sports franchise enforce a "lifetime ban" on a patron? with tens of thousands of people at each game, how are they going to recognize a single person?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5621mw/eli5_how_would_a_sports_franchise_enforce_a/
{ "a_id": [ "d8fmh60", "d8fmixj", "d8fnfz2" ], "score": [ 12, 4, 4 ], "text": [ "Lifetime bans are not so much about keeping you out, but giving them grounds for having you arrested if they do notice you or if you do any kind of minor infraction. ", "If the person comes back an...
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[ [], [], [] ]
2ly2rl
why don't we have animal organ donor clinics?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2ly2rl/eli5_why_dont_we_have_animal_organ_donor_clinics/
{ "a_id": [ "clz86ij" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "I actually don't know but I would assume that it is because no healthy dog's owner would give up the dog's organs. If a dog is being put down, there is a reason. Thus, organs not salvageable. Also, who would pay for the storage? Vet bills are exp...
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9obxv2
why do cops always ask if you know why they pulled you over? does your answer have any influence on how the cop my handle the situation?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9obxv2/eli5_why_do_cops_always_ask_if_you_know_why_they/
{ "a_id": [ "e7svf9s", "e7svl4f" ], "score": [ 3, 3 ], "text": [ "If you say \"I was speeding\" they document that so you can't go to court and say you weren't speeding", "It's a mind game. They pulled you over for a very specific reason. If there's something *else* you're doing wron...
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48bdz2
what was the nazi plan for explaining the final solution to the german public?
The general historical consensus is that the Final Solution was not general public knowledge since the average citizen would be against genocide. Theoretically, if the Nazis won, did the 3rd Reich have a plan/idea in place on how they were going to explain the complete absence of Jews in Europe? Or were they going to...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/48bdz2/eli5what_was_the_nazi_plan_for_explaining_the/
{ "a_id": [ "d0ia8me", "d0idred", "d0iv0hp", "d0izbka" ], "score": [ 12, 33, 5, 5 ], "text": [ "\"The Jews have been working to undermine the state and harm the German people. Those deemed disloyal to the state have been placed into forced labor camps to provide for the wel...
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
58faf8
what is a tor relay node, and how does it work?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/58faf8/eli5_what_is_a_tor_relay_node_and_how_does_it_work/
{ "a_id": [ "d8zz0s8" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "basically there's a bunch of relay nodes and an exit node. when you connect to a website, instead of connecting to the website directly, you connect through multiple relay nodes and then to an exit node, that exit node is where you appear to be ...
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[ [ "http://www.hacker10.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/tor-hidden-service-diagram-network.jpg" ] ]