q_id
stringlengths
5
6
title
stringlengths
3
296
selftext
stringlengths
0
34k
document
stringclasses
1 value
subreddit
stringclasses
1 value
url
stringlengths
4
110
answers
dict
title_urls
list
selftext_urls
list
answers_urls
list
2bajtn
if planets require certain conditions for life, why can't we bring those conditions to them?
For example, water. Is there no way to introduce water to another planet?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2bajtn/eli5_if_planets_require_certain_conditions_for/
{ "a_id": [ "cj3di82", "cj3djyq", "cj3dls6", "cj3ewah", "cj3f11k", "cj3f3im" ], "score": [ 4, 2, 3, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "This is called [Teraforming](_URL_0_) and it's theoretical.", " > For example, water. Is there no way to introduce water to another ...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terraforming" ], [], [], [], [], [] ]
3nxaqz
what happens if a country is found guilty of a war crime?
I keep seeing posts about the U.S. being accused of war crimes by doctors without borders. What would happen if the country were found "guilty"? Furthermore, who (agency, coalition, UN...) decides if a country has or has not committed a war crime?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3nxaqz/eli5_what_happens_if_a_country_is_found_guilty_of/
{ "a_id": [ "cvs3pus", "cvs3rk4", "cvs9s46" ], "score": [ 4, 2, 5 ], "text": [ "Countries can't be guilty of war crimes, only individual people can. What happens depends on what court makes that ruling and whether that court has the power to enforce that ruling.", "You can't ch...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://www.icc-cpi.int/en_menus/icc/about%20the%20court/icc%20at%20a%20glance/Pages/how%20the%20court%20works.aspx" ], [] ]
b8e2wr
when does a town/city become big enough to need a mayor?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/b8e2wr/eli5_when_does_a_towncity_become_big_enough_to/
{ "a_id": [ "ejxdnt4" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "This really depends on the country you're talking about. In the US, There's no uniform system. It varies state by state, with most states having similar but not identical legal administrative divisions and definitions of what constitutes each div...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2fctyt
how are countries economies affected by war when they are not directly fighting at home?
A great example would be America or Russia. They are both at war outside of "home base". How are their economies differing from the pre-war era? What specific sections of their economies flourish or fall, and how is their economic outlook as a whole compared to times without war? Sorry about the essay question. This ...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2fctyt/eli5_how_are_countries_economies_affected_by_war/
{ "a_id": [ "ck7ztke", "ck80xiw" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Scarcity of goods and the need to send goods overseas to soldiers all negatively impact the economy. Soldiers need to eat, be supplied to be effective and need skilled support staff such as doctors and nurses to assist in th...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1bk3oy
since all elements are made of protons, neutrons, and electrons, why can't we synthesize our own?
I know that every element is made up of protons, neutrons, and electrons, but why can't we make our own? Why can't we get a whole bunch of protons, neutrons, and electrons together in something like the Large Hadron Collider and make tons of any element?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1bk3oy/eli5_since_all_elements_are_made_of_protons/
{ "a_id": [ "c97dfan", "c97dgfe", "c97ix5x" ], "score": [ 10, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Because the amount of energy that it would take is not worth the amount of element produced. Elements can be synthetically produced, but the energy and heat produced in the process cause it to be ineff...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
3cy52b
why do satellites and the iss need re-boosting while we have too much space junk that seems to keep hanging around?
Shouldn't all space junk in Low Earth Orbit just de-orbit in a couple of years? Why is space junk still a problem? What about higher orbits?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3cy52b/eli5_why_do_satellites_and_the_iss_need/
{ "a_id": [ "ct00x6o", "ct02zt0" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Junk in low Earth orbit does go through re-entry and burn up, but it takes longer than a couple years because they are small objects and so they don't have as much friction as, say, a space station. The result is that they l...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1t0e80
how does nasa take pictures of the sun so clearly?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1t0e80/eli5_how_does_nasa_take_pictures_of_the_sun_so/
{ "a_id": [ "ce31p8b", "ce31pft", "ce32biw", "ce32lmp" ], "score": [ 3, 3, 4, 2 ], "text": [ "With cameras. Most of what they're interested in isn't what the human eye would see, they use cameras meant to pick up only on a small band of light to make out what they want to s...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
37nkte
why do companies prefer the "buy one get one free" method over the "50% off" method?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/37nkte/eli5_why_do_companies_prefer_the_buy_one_get_one/
{ "a_id": [ "cro87s7", "cro8ib7" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Probably a merchandising technique that's been tested and proved more receptive to customers. The word \"free\" always seems to stimulate a Pavlovian response.", "/u/moops79 and /u/coliecam both got two pieces, and there...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
364s9x
at what point does a word/phrase become a slur?
ELI5: At what point does a word/phrase become a slur? For example, the first time someone used the word “nigger,” was the person on the receiving end offended? In the case of a new word, let’s use something ridiculous like “fishpoot,” would someone be offended if they were called a fishpoot, and if no, at what point wo...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/364s9x/eli5_at_what_point_does_a_wordphrase_become_a_slur/
{ "a_id": [ "crarrgw", "crasbzw", "crascru", "craskts" ], "score": [ 3, 6, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Those kinds of words are usually taken directly from another language or dialect that is not considered as sophisticated by the slur adopting culture.\n\nFor example, the word \"ni...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
1s9xce
how do heat-protective hair products work?
There are many products being marketed as things for use before heat-styling hair (blowdrying, straightening, curling) to protect it from heat damage. How is it possible to put a substance on your hair that both allows the heat to do what you want it to do while still protecting your hair from said heat?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1s9xce/eli5how_do_heatprotective_hair_products_work/
{ "a_id": [ "cdver8q" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Depending on what kind of hairspray you get, it depends. one of two things:\n\n1. Prevents the breakdown of part of the proteins in hair, which is why they tend to feel waxy or sticky in your hair. \n2. Prevent water loss from the hair strand. I'...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
238yv9
how does oil kill mosquito larvae? can't they just poke their breathing tube through the oil?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/238yv9/eli5_how_does_oil_kill_mosquito_larvae_cant_they/
{ "a_id": [ "cgun71m" ], "score": [ 11 ], "text": [ "They depend on the surface tension of the water to stay at the top. Oil breaks the surface tension. When that happens, the larvae sinks." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
37kq93
how do illegal drug prices remain more or less constant while everything else increases in price?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/37kq93/eli5_how_do_illegal_drug_prices_remain_more_or/
{ "a_id": [ "crnjdaq", "crnmqoa", "crnn2xx", "crnndqq", "crnovk5", "crnp7ot", "crns5r3" ], "score": [ 16, 3, 103, 3, 2, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "They don't?\n\nSure the amount of $ you hand over may have stayed consistent over the years but the amount you ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
70qv5r
how does putting an organ on ice keep it alive?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/70qv5r/eli5_how_does_putting_an_organ_on_ice_keep_it/
{ "a_id": [ "dn58soz" ], "score": [ 12 ], "text": [ " > How does putting an organ on ice keep it alive?\n\nIt doesn't keep it alive so much as slow down its dying. As you should remember from chemistry class, chemical reactions generally go faster the warmer they are. All the chemical stuff going...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
fyuvn6
why does the quality of a video or image deteriorate the more it gets shared?
I see this a lot on here. The more something gets reposted the worse the quality. Why is that? And I just noticed that the videos in my “saved” folder here on Reddit have dropped in quality too, is this an odd occasion or does Reddit lower the quality of older posts to save on storage space? Have a nice Easter 🥴
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/fyuvn6/eli5_why_does_the_quality_of_a_video_or_image/
{ "a_id": [ "fn1yhff" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "It’s not that they deteriorate in quality the more they are shared. It’s just, like you mentioned, that different apps lower the quality of uploaded videos to save storage space on their servers. Most of the time people don’t care or even notice....
[]
[]
[ [] ]
5jszzd
is it possible to heat up an object by playing a loud enough sound? if so how loud would it need to be?
[first post in reddit] Going on the basis that sound is a wave of vibrating particles and when particles vibrate they heat up. Could you get the object to vibrate enough due to the sound to heat up? How loud would this object then need to be?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5jszzd/eli5_is_it_possible_to_heat_up_an_object_by/
{ "a_id": [ "dbirlsu", "dbisi2o", "dbiso31", "dbiyiry" ], "score": [ 4, 2, 18, 4 ], "text": [ "Sort of, it's not necessarily the volume of the sound but the frequency. Most sound based heaters use ultrasonic sound to excite the material being heated, usually water. \n\nAt...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
1obc7e
why is the debate on healthcare over who is going to pay, and how they are going to pay, rather than why it is so expensive in the first place?
I understand that the two are linked, in terms of collective bargaining, but even still, the prices are outrageous. Why don't laws similar to price gouging restrictions apply - you are in no more desperate need of gas or a heater during a natural disaster, than you are in need of care or medicine when facing death.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1obc7e/eli5_why_is_the_debate_on_healthcare_over_who_is/
{ "a_id": [ "ccqftgq", "ccqkd2c" ], "score": [ 4, 2 ], "text": [ "One of the main goals of 'Obamacare' is to bring the cost of healthcare down. ", "You've answered your own question: *who* pays is the largest reason for how much it costs. \n\nMost countries now have a free universal he...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
27jvpu
can you live without having any senses?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/27jvpu/eli5_can_you_live_without_having_any_senses/
{ "a_id": [ "ci1i0nf", "ci1j1ue", "ci1la1a" ], "score": [ 7, 3, 3 ], "text": [ "Pretty sure you technically can. Doesn't sound like fun though.\n\nSee 'One' by Metallica...", "Some Senses would be required to live for any length of time, you can only go on so long drinking pois...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
2c3yry
what is that "light" left in our vision after something like a camera flash?
I've always wondered about this. Not just camera flash either. Things like the sun, a flashlight, whatever.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2c3yry/eli5_what_is_that_light_left_in_our_vision_after/
{ "a_id": [ "cjbp22t", "cjbsrzi" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Your eyes got a bit over-stimulated and it takes time to adjust the eyes back.\n\nIf you go out and it's quite bright your pupils get smaller so that less light gets in, and vice versa. The idea is to try and get the best am...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1xbdr0
why does usa care so much about russia's anti-gay laws but doesn't allow same sex marriage in all states?
I don't get why they are making Russia seem like the bad guy but they don't allow it them selves. Shouldn't americans demand it from their own country first before judging Russia?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1xbdr0/eli5_why_does_usa_care_so_much_about_russias/
{ "a_id": [ "cf9t3fb", "cf9t3o8", "cf9taxo", "cf9vyqm" ], "score": [ 2, 6, 6, 4 ], "text": [ "We are trying. There are other groups in the country that aren't so progressively minded. At least our president isn't denouncing gays in front of a backdrop of a huge multi-nation...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
b8su73
why is the natural position of my eyes open during the day and i have to “forcefully” close them, while at night i have to “forcefully” keep them open as their natural state becomes closed?
I know this is kind of a weird one. I just don’t understand how I have to focus on closing them during the day but then at night it’s the exact opposite. Is something changing physically with tension or is it all psychological?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/b8su73/eli5_why_is_the_natural_position_of_my_eyes_open/
{ "a_id": [ "ek01zmn", "ek0rdul" ], "score": [ 20, 32 ], "text": [ "It is just part of the sleep system. There are two parts to the sleep system. The sleep-wake homoestasis and the circadian rhythm. \n\nThe sleep wake system is pretty simple. The longer you are awake the sleepier you get a...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
233kyl
could we really build star wars sized space ships?
Say, something that was several kilometers long and could house tens of thousands of people. Is this feasible with existing materials science? EDIT: Let me clarify: I'm assuming cost isn't a factor, nor is getting the material into orbit, etc. Let's just build the damn thing up there.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/233kyl/eli5could_we_really_build_star_wars_sized_space/
{ "a_id": [ "cgt1tff", "cgt1tv0", "cgt3omy", "cgt78fb", "cgt7ibo", "cgtbuec" ], "score": [ 6, 89, 8, 3, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "If built in space. Our rocket tech wouldn't be able to accelerate fast enough to put strain on anything, I don't think. ", "Simply ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_elevator", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/In-situ_resource_utilization" ], [], [], [ "http://www.buildtheenterprise.org/" ] ]
1gvhsf
why does stagnant water turn green-ish after some time ?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1gvhsf/eli5_why_does_stagnant_water_turn_greenish_after/
{ "a_id": [ "cao7wet" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "It depends on where the stagnant water is, but a good portion of the time it's because algae grows in it, which is commonly green." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
5yfpln
is there any significant difference between different brands of water?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5yfpln/eli5_is_there_any_significant_difference_between/
{ "a_id": [ "deplmms", "deplvhm", "depmp6g", "depmzku", "depnab7", "depni4e", "depnsap", "depoj3y", "depr9eq", "deptea5", "depzvkh", "deqqso2" ], "score": [ 8, 88, 11, 34, 2, 10, 7, 2, 9, 20, 5, 2 ], "text": [ ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
2fgf2t
in honor of beyonce's birthday, eli5 why every girl i know idolizes her, in a near religious fashion
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2fgf2t/eli5_in_honor_of_beyonces_birthday_eli5_why_every/
{ "a_id": [ "ck8xxnc", "ck8ytmi" ], "score": [ 5, 3 ], "text": [ "Because she's a celebrity thats it. People idolize other people who are well off ", "Because you are overexaggerating things. Plus confirmation bias. I'm sure not EVERY girl you know \"idolizes her in a near-religious ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2evhn4
why do i sweat more after getting out of the shower?
I live in a pretty hot and humid place, but this is a strange phenomenon I've noticed with my body. I can walk outside for a little bit and get a bit sweaty normally. But after I shower at the gym and walk back to my car, I'm for some reason pouring sweat. Even at home, not going outside, I'll be in my room feeling hot...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2evhn4/eli5_why_do_i_sweat_more_after_getting_out_of_the/
{ "a_id": [ "ck3bphu" ], "score": [ 7 ], "text": [ "If your showers are long and hot enough, the heat is raising your body temperature. You'd notice the same phenomenon in a hot bath, sauna, or hot tub. It takes a while for your body to cool off after the shower, so until you do, you sweat." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
dyraob
i have had escrow explained to me three times just now by three different people and i still don't quite get it.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dyraob/eli5_i_have_had_escrow_explained_to_me_three/
{ "a_id": [ "f82wtha", "f82zpl0", "f830g4d", "f83r5q3" ], "score": [ 13, 6, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Escrow is a neutral place where all monies go to be dispersed to the right people at the right time.", "Imagine I'm trying to buy a house. I want to give someone a bunch of mo...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
b678m3
network routing
"Routing calculates good paths through a network for information to take. " & #x200B; But how?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/b678m3/eli5_network_routing/
{ "a_id": [ "ejidby4" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "There are a lot of different ways, but it basically boils down to this:\n\nEach router sends messages to its neighbors and then learns information about its neighbors, such as who they are and how long it takes to communicate with them. Through t...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
323ojp
are police in the us really so trigger happy against african-americans, or does it just seem this way to an outsider as such news is more widely proliferated since the trayvon martin?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/323ojp/eli5_are_police_in_the_us_really_so_trigger_happy/
{ "a_id": [ "cq7kkl1", "cq7kn4t", "cq7l2zy", "cq7m126", "cq7mrrb", "cq7n6pc", "cq7o1by", "cq7o4xl", "cq7o5t5", "cq7od5q", "cq7ol9l", "cq7onq1", "cq7orsb", "cq7ovyg", "cq7p3jz" ], "score": [ 45, 10, 315, 2, 49, 34, 7, 2, ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://www.vox.com/2014/12/26/7443979/racism-implicit-racial-bias" ], [], [] ]
6emx23
what's te deal with g20?
I live in Hamburg, Germany and we will host the G20 soon. Now I have seen that a lot of people are against this summit, and I am wondering what it is that people dislike. After all to me it seems like a good idea for the richest Counties to meet and discuss the problems of the world.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6emx23/eli5_whats_te_deal_with_g20/
{ "a_id": [ "dibfjwo" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "The reason people don't like the G20 is beavuse it's 20 of the world's largest economies that get together and talk about what way they want to steer the world's economies. Basically like the rich deciding what policy changes they can decide to m...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
1hjr2s
what's the difference between neoliberalism and capitalism?
Also an explanation of the two would be greatly appreciated!
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1hjr2s/eli5_whats_the_difference_between_neoliberalism/
{ "a_id": [ "cav2160" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Capitalism is what's called a mode of production, or system of political economy. This means that Capitalism is a system of organizing the production of goods/services for a given location. It can be defined a couple different ways. To give an ex...
[]
[]
[ [ "Marxists.org", "Capitalism.org" ] ]
3i6d3x
the current stock market situation and crash.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3i6d3x/eli5_the_current_stock_market_situation_and_crash/
{ "a_id": [ "cudoxtj" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "[This is a long overdue correction, IMO. If you look at a chart over decades rather than the last week or month or year, you will see nothing out of the ordinary. Click \"max\" and look at that chart. You will see that the stock market is doing q...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://finance.yahoo.com/echarts?s=%5EDJI+Interactive#" ] ]
5ihpoz
how is it that the united states is a secular state but the phrase "in god we trust" still appears on our money and in the house chamber
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5ihpoz/eli5_how_is_it_that_the_united_states_is_a/
{ "a_id": [ "db874p4", "db89gfg", "db89kvn", "db89t2e", "db8ampv", "db8arnk", "db8c2wh", "db8c9xi", "db8cuif", "db8d066", "db8d5by", "db8d9wx", "db8dam6", "db8dcup", "db8ddvh", "db8df4z", "db8dzh1", "db8eszs", "db8f6di" ], "score": [ ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/president-eisenhower-signs-in-god-we-trust-into-law" ], [], [], [ "https://www.treasury.gov/about/education/Pages/in-god-we-trust.aspx" ], [ "https://www.merriam-webster.com/...
6lszal
why are our fingers partially webbed?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6lszal/eli5_why_are_our_fingers_partially_webbed/
{ "a_id": [ "djwfa01" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Not professional\n\nOur fingers are slightly webbed because during the development of the embryo, our hand and feets first form as a single mass, then the fingers develop. \nIn the end, after the development of fingers, a sheet of skin and tissue...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3fj9vp
are the chewing sounds you hear while you're chewing magnified or what you actually sound like chewing?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3fj9vp/eli5_are_the_chewing_sounds_you_hear_while_youre/
{ "a_id": [ "ctp3ull" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Not really amplified, but directly routed into your ears by your jawbone. While in contrast to third parties they get dampened by the meat around your mouth (i.e. cheeks and lips) ... so keep your pie hole shut while chewing.\n\nEDIT: also obviou...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
4yn5w0
why is it such a disadvantage to be in lane 1 as a track runner/team when the overall distance is the same from any starting block?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4yn5w0/eli5_why_is_it_such_a_disadvantage_to_be_in_lane/
{ "a_id": [ "d6p0q8g", "d6p89kz" ], "score": [ 12, 2 ], "text": [ "Actually, I believe the greater disadvantage is in lane 8 (or the most outer lane)! In lane 1, you are able to see the rest of your competitors so you can pace yourself accordingly and know exactly when you need to have you...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
29r7iq
how do people put graffiti on bridges?
When I'm driving on roads, there will be some bridges that are full of graffiti on the sides of the bridge over the road. How do they get it there?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/29r7iq/eli5_how_do_people_put_graffiti_on_bridges/
{ "a_id": [ "cinouc7" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "They climb up, or lean over the side." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
1xa7xg
shin splints!
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1xa7xg/eli5_shin_splints/
{ "a_id": [ "cf9hord" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "Due to repetitive stresses, the connective tissues that hold your muscles to your bones get inflamed, stiffened, and sometimes (in extreme cases) start to separate from the bones.\n" ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
5r89w8
the good and the bad of greenpeace?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5r89w8/eli5_the_good_and_the_bad_of_greenpeace/
{ "a_id": [ "dd55p63", "dd5dwsh" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Greenpeace did irreparable damage to the Nazca Lines during a protest, fled the country, then refused to divulge the names of those involved for extradition. That action is enough for me to call them an evil organization. ",...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2fatld
why it's the fbi looking into people posting the leaked celeb nudes, and what's to stop me from requesting the fbi to aid me in removing any content i don't want on the internet now that they are helping(or trying to) remove unwanted content?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2fatld/eli5_why_its_the_fbi_looking_into_people_posting/
{ "a_id": [ "ck7hb9g" ], "score": [ 9 ], "text": [ "The FBI is looking into it because the FBI handles criminal investigation on the federal level: in particular, most large scale internet crimes fall under federal law.\n\nThis was data theft, not a typical information leak. Your bad highschool ye...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
30ao33
why are monsters/objects in movies or video games portrayed to move a slow speed relative to their size?
For example a giant human hand reaching to crush something is shown to be slow when moving. But in perspective to real life we can crush an ant relatively quick for our size.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/30ao33/eli5_why_are_monstersobjects_in_movies_or_video/
{ "a_id": [ "cpqo9ox", "cpqoee6", "cpqorn4" ], "score": [ 6, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "They're actually moving at full speed, it just appears to take longer because of the distance traveled.", "Compared to an ant we do move slow (in relation to body size).\n\nAlso think about Elephant...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
8zmivg
why is it easier to tear paper in one direction more than the other?
If paper is made from a homogeneous dough-like matter, why does it act like it has directional tissues?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8zmivg/eli5_why_is_it_easier_to_tear_paper_in_one/
{ "a_id": [ "e2jsy2q" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "Paper is made of cellulose fibers. Imagine those fibers are cooked spaghetti. When paper is produced, those Spaghetti get oriented in the Machine direction so they Look like this IIIIII next to each other. Now If you want to tear from the top top...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3l3nr0
our pupils change size but the amount we can see doesn't?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3l3nr0/eli5_our_pupils_change_size_but_the_amount_we_can/
{ "a_id": [ "cv2wbfr", "cv2wcpx", "cv2wd2a", "cv2wj3y" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "The size of the pupil controls how much light enters the eye, not the eye's field of view. The field of view (i.e. how wide of an area you can see at one time) is controlled by the...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [ "https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1371/847802600_2513f34e14_z.jpg?zz=1", "https://taylearningphotography.files.wordpress.com/2010/10/aperture.jpg", "http://www.abc.net.au/science/askanexpert/img/aperture.jpg" ] ]
2lbxr7
why would obviously wealthy people spend millions of their own fortune for political campaigns? is it really a good roi?
My SO posed this question the other day. My immediate response was they want to win the popularity contest. I argue that real investor/business types wouldn't blow cash on such endeavors. But there obviously has to be a pay off. I know this conversation will go in the direction of quid pro quo and good old boy networks...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2lbxr7/eli5_why_would_obviously_wealthy_people_spend/
{ "a_id": [ "cltc3ne", "cltc6b4", "cltcifn", "cltd8iu", "cltg1tl" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Smart rich people don't put their money in losing investments. It's really as simple as that.", "In certain situations donating money will lower the amoun...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=1gEz__sMVaY" ], [], [] ]
ejwotx
why does spinach have pretty much infinite shrinking potential when cooked?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ejwotx/eli5_why_does_spinach_have_pretty_much_infinite/
{ "a_id": [ "fd2ckad" ], "score": [ 32 ], "text": [ "Its 92% water. Cooking all the wayer out only leaves (pun intended) 8% mass of cellulose and such. \n\nTheir large surface area and thinness makes it easy to cook the water out and their lack of sugars/starches makes it harder to burn while doi...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
ck1seo
how can a phone/laptop that has a less than 1080p display play 1080p videos on youtube?
i have an iphone 8. i found out that it has a 750p display (kinda pathetic compared to the 1440p galaxy phones that i used previously). so when watching youtube, the iphone 8 can at best play 720p videos right? but there's actually a 1080p option as well. what the fuck is that option? just a bullshit 1080p fake option...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ck1seo/eli5_how_can_a_phonelaptop_that_has_a_less_than/
{ "a_id": [ "evi8fpj", "eviabo5" ], "score": [ 7, 3 ], "text": [ "It can download the video but when it comes to seeing it the limitations are set physically by the screen itself.", "The video is scaled down by the software to the resolution it is shown on the screen just like lower re...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2a1xs4
what happens to the veins when we eat chicken or beef?
For example when I'm eating chicken wings, the skin is still on but i don't see any veins or blood vessels. where did they go?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2a1xs4/eli5what_happens_to_the_veins_when_we_eat_chicken/
{ "a_id": [ "ciqob5s" ], "score": [ 12 ], "text": [ "They are still there and the larger ones can still be visible (I commonly see them). A lot of the veins and tendons break down into an indistinguishable mush when cooked. " ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2zexh9
why do monitor refresh rates are always non exact numbers such as 23.97/29.97/59.94 instead of the full 24/30/60 hz?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2zexh9/eli5_why_do_monitor_refresh_rates_are_always_non/
{ "a_id": [ "cpiabne" ], "score": [ 7 ], "text": [ "Specifically for the 29.97 frame rate:\n\nI long time ago, when TV started the US started transmitting frames at 30 frames per second (30 Hz). Which is great. However, when colour TV started and they needed to add colour to each pixel, they cou...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://youtu.be/mjYjFEp9Yx0" ] ]
1u3fs5
with 3d printing of organs coming in the near future, what are the printing the organs out of? whats the source of the material?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1u3fs5/eli5_with_3d_printing_of_organs_coming_in_the/
{ "a_id": [ "cee4vik" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "I'll just throw out my best guess; the organs are created by putting stem cells on a stencil of some sort. The stem cells figure out what organ to create, and thus, create it. The issue is that stem cells create things as if they were young. If y...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
drzmzh
how wikipedia website works, who can edit or create articles. do author need to attach source or proof with articles? how we can trust everything is right and trustworthy.
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/drzmzh/eli5_how_wikipedia_website_works_who_can_edit_or/
{ "a_id": [ "f6ly7xh", "f6m4iri" ], "score": [ 10, 2 ], "text": [ "Anyone can edit or create any page.\n\nWikipedia has three main rules: 1) a page must be written from a neutral point of view, 2) all claims and quotations must be verified by a reliable source outside of Wikipedia, and 3) ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
7lzvk4
how do you fix a severed artery/vein?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7lzvk4/eli5_how_do_you_fix_a_severed_arteryvein/
{ "a_id": [ "drqcffk" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Have you called 911/000 yet? " ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
jt9oj
what is instantaneous velocity?
I Googled it and it led me to a calculus website. I'm 16, a junior in high school with iffy math ability. HALP :(
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/jt9oj/eli5_what_is_instantaneous_velocity/
{ "a_id": [ "c2exxrw", "c2exxrw" ], "score": [ 4, 4 ], "text": [ "It's how fast and in which direction you're moving *right now* as opposed to your average velocity over some time period.\n\nExample:\n\nYou're driving to your friend's house. At some point, you're heading straight north, gl...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
40xn6p
why do people say "you have been served" when giving out a subpoena?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/40xn6p/eli5why_do_people_say_you_have_been_served_when/
{ "a_id": [ "cyxvtop", "cyy6lf3" ], "score": [ 5, 3 ], "text": [ "The word \"serve\" simply means to deliver a legal writ. So in delivering the writ, the person is serving you with said writ, meaning you are being served.\n\nIt would make sense that the reason they announce it is so you kn...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
770g4i
why does no one ever name the sexual offenders in hollywood?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/770g4i/eli5_why_does_no_one_ever_name_the_sexual/
{ "a_id": [ "doi1naf", "doi23mj" ], "score": [ 4, 2 ], "text": [ "Let's say you're in the position to make millions of dollars and help you and your family out for generations. You are also in a position to be able to avoid known offenders most of the time. Do you try to ignore that part...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
89n6j1
what are the advantages/disadvantages to a v6 engine vs. an in-line 6?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/89n6j1/eli5_what_are_the_advantagesdisadvantages_to_a_v6/
{ "a_id": [ "dws5guj" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "Straight 6 advantages are simplicity and ease of manufacture so cost less. They are, contrary to what one of the other comments said, actually better balanced than V6. In a V6 to get it precisely balanced you have to add specially placed weights ...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
62y6ye
the publishing industry. are there any differences between publishing a. children's book and novel? what does an author do to get his book published and onto bookshelves?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/62y6ye/eli5_the_publishing_industry_are_there_any/
{ "a_id": [ "dfqugfk" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Source: I'm an author.\n\nThere's not necessarily a distinction between children's books and adult novels per se, but there are a couple different ways books get made: by commission, and by submission. Often, a publishing company sees the need fo...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
1pygpe
eil5: what does the transatlantic trade and investment partnership mean, both positive and negative, to me: 25 yr old taxpayer?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1pygpe/eil5_what_does_the_transatlantic_trade_and/
{ "a_id": [ "cd7bq1o" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "It's a transatlantic organization that works to put the European Union and the United States into a common market. Much like the way the European Union is put together there are no tariffs between Member States. The idea is that if the two larges...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2eywyo
what is actually the difference between pentium and eg. i5 processors when pentium is an older series however the new anniversary version is faster than some i5 processors?
For hose who dont get what I mean, I found out that the new Intel Pentium Anniversary Edition G3258 is faster than my i5 4200u processor. Why don't they just change the names? or just scrap the Pentium series?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2eywyo/eli5_what_is_actually_the_difference_between/
{ "a_id": [ "ck4a9cj" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "For one thing, the i5 4200u is meant for battery powered devices(laptops and the like) where as the pentium is meant for desktop use. Because they have the same instruction set it only makes since for the processor capable of drawing more power(t...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
5ke4r5
why do mobile devices have autocorrect implementation, but almost no computers do?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5ke4r5/eli5_why_do_mobile_devices_have_autocorrect/
{ "a_id": [ "dbn8t1b", "dbnc7n0", "dbnd49d" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Browsers like Chrome have spell check integrated. But OS-wide autocorrect isn't necessary because keyboards are much more precise than mobile screens; the autocorrect is for fat-fingering something and ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
2wl26l
why do people horde bread and milk for bad weather when they don't consume those things normally in such large quantities?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2wl26l/eli5why_do_people_horde_bread_and_milk_for_bad/
{ "a_id": [ "cortp9a", "cortrhi" ], "score": [ 2, 3 ], "text": [ "The idea is that these things make the basis for a lot of meals and are very versatile. You can use milk and bread to make tones of things, and assuming you have a generator. Another thing that should be said is that, you ca...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
94vnco
in music what's the difference between 4/4, 5/4, 5/8, etc?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/94vnco/eli5_in_music_whats_the_difference_between_44_54/
{ "a_id": [ "e3o4cul", "e3o4fdk", "e3o4ktv", "e3o5ews", "e3o5kuz", "e3o7q27", "e3o8fax", "e3o97dc" ], "score": [ 3, 3, 9, 2, 2, 4, 5, 3 ], "text": [ "Short answer: tempo and timing. \n\nLong answer: Let's for a moment imagine a song. This fir...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://youtu.be/KcAJUi89m6Q" ], [], [], [ "https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2017/04/03/521913341/what-do-hanson-and-madonna-have-in-common-hits-ideal-for-saving-a-life" ], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0kcet4aPpQ", "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmCnQDUSO4I" ], [...
7jbl01
how do grocery stores get money back from coupons?
I can imagine a schoolhouse rock cartoon showing tons of coupons being delivered and sorted and rang up but that seems wildly inefficient. If coupons are redeemed by the store through scanning the code, do they just throw the coupons away? How do smaller, more efficient countries handle coupons compared to the US? ...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7jbl01/eli5_how_do_grocery_stores_get_money_back_from/
{ "a_id": [ "dr51cdl" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "It depends. There are store coupons, and manufacturer coupons. Stores do not get reimbursed for store coupons. Manufacturers will reimburse them for manufacturer coupons, but they never receive the actual coupons. The stores just tell them how ma...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2x5phg
why are school buses so bouncy compared to other vehicles?
I've always noticed how commercial and public transport buses are incredibly more comfortable, same as cars.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2x5phg/eli5_why_are_school_buses_so_bouncy_compared_to/
{ "a_id": [ "cox8e80", "coy5xhq" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "The public transport busses have an air suspension set up. School busses still use the old leaf spring set ups which is a lot more rigid than the air suspension. ", "Like Boogge points out. School busses use leaf springs...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
3z7kg1
why do hospitals and other medical facilities require expensive and elaborate buildings with detailed architecture and landscaping, wasted interior space, and seemingly energy inefficient exterior glass walls?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3z7kg1/eli5_why_do_hospitals_and_other_medical/
{ "a_id": [ "cyjufq6", "cyjuzww", "cyjy27c" ], "score": [ 3, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Never underestimate the [placebo effect](_URL_0_). Even being in a place that looks and feels bright and open can affect your psychology and actually improve physical symptoms.\n\nAdditionally, hospital...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Placebo" ], [], [] ]
rmgi6
buckingham's pi theorem
I keep confusing myself when I try to do it. There just doesn't seem to be a good explanation that I understand, so if you would please explain it like I'm five I'd appreciate it!
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/rmgi6/elif_buckinghams_pi_theorem/
{ "a_id": [ "c46zsax", "c475xia" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "In science, a lot of things tend to have *units* attached to them. Ruler measurements have units of length, clock measurements have units of time, and so on and so forth.\n\nThe thing is that units are sometimes inconvenient...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2zfp73
since light takes time to travel from distant stars to earth, does this mean our night sky is consistently being "updated" with new stars?
If so, would this mean that eventually (undoubtedly far into the future) the night sky would become so densely packed with stars that differentiating them from one another with the naked eye would be impossible?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2zfp73/eli5_since_light_takes_time_to_travel_from/
{ "a_id": [ "cpihs6s", "cpihtcu", "cpiiy5w" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Yes, although it's not like they just \"turn on\" one night. Stars take many thousands of years to be born.\n\n > If so, would this mean that eventually (undoubtedly far into the future) the night sky ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
8psd14
why do objects in cartoons that move/will move appear brighter/more vibrant than objects that are stagnant in that scene?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8psd14/eli5_why_do_objects_in_cartoons_that_movewill/
{ "a_id": [ "e0dncni", "e0dndyu" ], "score": [ 5, 2 ], "text": [ "If you're talking about old cartoons, then that's because those objects were drawn separately.\n\nThe background of a scene in a cartoon is generally a single drawing. The moving objects or characters are drawn on a separate...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2uegof
is it bad for my eyes if i sit on my pc (or other glowing screens like tv) at night while having the lights off? if yes, in what way? if not then why do so many people believe this?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2uegof/eli5_is_it_bad_for_my_eyes_if_i_sit_on_my_pc_or/
{ "a_id": [ "co7nqhn", "co7nrov", "co7o9bc", "co7ok24", "co7oopa", "co7p95j" ], "score": [ 18, 15, 2, 2, 4, 3 ], "text": [ "Techinically so, but prolonged use in a light room can be just as tiring on your eyes. Keep an eye out (heh!) for any signs of strain,...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://justgetflux.com/" ], [], [], [], [], [] ]
240m6c
if bananas don't naturally reproduce and are all the result of cloning by humans, how are there different types of bananas?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/240m6c/eli5_if_bananas_dont_naturally_reproduce_and_are/
{ "a_id": [ "ch2g81i", "ch2ggvl", "ch2hajz" ], "score": [ 13, 12, 4 ], "text": [ "Imagine that you took one sterile person in a family and you repeatedly cloned them.\n\nYou could do the same with a different person in their family.\n\nIt's kind of like that with bananas. That's ho...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
3wvwxw
how are houses in poor countries so expensive?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3wvwxw/eli5_how_are_houses_in_poor_countries_so_expensive/
{ "a_id": [ "cxzge8p" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Well China and especially Japan aren't poor countries. Eritrea is a poor country. Burkina Faso is a poor country. China is middling in wealth per person, and Japan is rolling in it comparatively.\n\nNot everyone needs to buy a house. More and mor...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
8kw8lv
how can people die from skin cancer? why can't the cancerous part simply be cut away?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8kw8lv/eli5_how_can_people_die_from_skin_cancer_why_cant/
{ "a_id": [ "dzazh2c", "dzazrr1", "dzazzj5", "dzb07gh" ], "score": [ 3, 19, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "At first, you can just cut it away. But as you wait for longer, the cancerous cells might gain the ability to spread throughout the body, at which point it becomes hard to target ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
2cv3mw
if a car is driving at a constant speed with its windows open, and a bird flying alongside it drifts in through the window, will it hit the front windshield or the rear windshield?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2cv3mw/eli5_if_a_car_is_driving_at_a_constant_speed_with/
{ "a_id": [ "cjjbhjn", "cjjbwjd" ], "score": [ 6, 2 ], "text": [ "If its just gliding, all other things equal, it will fall into the seat with little speed relative to the car. The wings won't lift it anymore without airflow around them, but there is no particular force to accelerate or de...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
j35je
li5: 2012 us presidential election
In 2012, I will be eligible to vote for the first time; unfortunately, I started caring about this election *way* too late, and now I feel lost whenever I stumble upon an article talking about so-and-so of the GOP or Democratic candidate XYZ. Basically, I would like a rundown of the different political parties involved...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/j35je/li5_2012_us_presidential_election/
{ "a_id": [ "c28qpm2", "c28qpqp" ], "score": [ 3, 7 ], "text": [ "I think a year before the election is not in any way \"too late\".\n\nThe different political parties (that have any meaningful chance of success) are the democrats and the republicans.\n\nThe democrats will have Obama (you ...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michele_Bachmann", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitt_Romney", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tim_Pawlenty", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarah_Palin", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newt_Gingrich" ], [] ]
b8be9z
why does some body soap leave a hydrophobic coating and some doesn't?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/b8be9z/eli5_why_does_some_body_soap_leave_a_hydrophobic/
{ "a_id": [ "ejx7kvu" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Some moisturizers are hydrophobic, like dimethicone (silicone based), and oils or waxes. These trap water in the skin. Other moisturizers like glycerol are hydrophilic, they are humectants that absorb water, and hold it on your skin. So basicall...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3lj3hw
why is there only one type of american public school?
In Italy, for example, a relatively small town (Alba,CN, 30k people) has more than 7 different schools (i.e. scientific for people like me, classical for Latin culture geeks, artistical, oenological for wine lovers...). We use this to separate nerds from bullies and to better manage the budget. Why don't you do the sam...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3lj3hw/eli5_why_is_there_only_one_type_of_american/
{ "a_id": [ "cv6q8gw", "cv6qbfg", "cv6qfo7" ], "score": [ 13, 2, 6 ], "text": [ "Some cities have magnet schools that do that. They specialize in certain subjects such as math, science, health sciences, etc. But most cities don't. The focus is on creating well rounded graduates who...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
3zmfpn
why do car door locks in the back of a car not go down as far as the ones in the front?
It seems more dangerous because younger children could be more able to accidentally unlock or open the door while a car is moving than an adult in the front.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3zmfpn/eli5why_do_car_door_locks_in_the_back_of_a_car/
{ "a_id": [ "cynb1pe", "cyngvrg", "cynm0pk" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "I have had cars where locks sit flush while down and others that stay a little up, enough to grab and unlock incase of no power. Rear doors have a safety feature which can be enabled that prevents doors...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
39ptx0
how did eyeliner become a thing in the west?
Why do westerners wear eyeliner? How did it get there, why did it become a trend in the west, when (afaik) it was first only used in places like Egypt and Mesopotamia?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/39ptx0/eli5_how_did_eyeliner_become_a_thing_in_the_west/
{ "a_id": [ "cs5fiil" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "In the 1920s, Tutankhamun's tomb was discovered, and suddenly eyeliner was the new hip thing as everyone was in an Egyptian fad. But eyeliner ended up sticking around anyways." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3p7fpc
how to make cheese from scratch with fresh milk?
Suppose the SHTF, and all I have is a cow, the basic means to keep us both alive, and not much else. How would I go about making cheese to store for the winter?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3p7fpc/eli5_how_to_make_cheese_from_scratch_with_fresh/
{ "a_id": [ "cw3t014", "cw3tqs1" ], "score": [ 5, 5 ], "text": [ "first you seperate the cheese into Curds (solid) and whey (liquid) this is usually done by souring the milk and adding something like rennet.\nThe acidification can be accomplished directly by the addition of an acid, such a...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
dd76ym
why do the health problems around vapes constitute a temporary ban while the health problems around cigarettes is well known and are still being sold
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dd76ym/eli5_why_do_the_health_problems_around_vapes/
{ "a_id": [ "f2egvm3", "f2egxvs", "f2ehzdj", "f2ei04n", "f2ei9un", "f2eifhf", "f2eip9o", "f2ej32z", "f2ejeg6", "f2ejh4o", "f2ejio9", "f2ejkb9", "f2ejnn1", "f2ejoq7", "f2ek53y", "f2ek5q1", "f2ek6jx", "f2ekcd5", "f2ekcxb", "f2eke7b", "f...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
ep1h65
why are current nuclear weapons not as large scale of yield, compared to previous warheads and nuclear tests?
Why are current nuclear warheads of recent times only limited to the dozens or hundreds of kilotons of yield, compared to the megaton yields of weapons past, up to 50 even with the Tsar Bomba
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ep1h65/eli5_why_are_current_nuclear_weapons_not_as_large/
{ "a_id": [ "fegemo3", "feger3t", "fegl4c6", "fegluo2" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 2, 11 ], "text": [ "One huge issue at hand is that larger bombs require larger/heavier planes to carry/deploy. Larger planes are potentially easier to detect and possibly shoot down, rendering suc...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
2xq24c
what exactly are "natural flavorings" and how are food companies allowed to omit these ingredients from the ingredient list?
Title
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2xq24c/eli5_what_exactly_are_natural_flavorings_and_how/
{ "a_id": [ "cp2cxln", "cp2d4cn", "cp2d5kw", "cp2emjd", "cp2hge9", "cp2k16t", "cp2mtex", "cp2o2o1", "cp2qdl8", "cp2tdrv", "cp2wvf2", "cp3084c" ], "score": [ 12, 6, 259, 66, 31, 3, 10, 3, 2, 10, 5, 16 ], "text": [ ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [ "http://www.marketplace.org/topics/business/ive-always-wondered/finding-natural-natural-flavors" ], [], [ "http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/ac/Synthesis_vanillin_4.svg", "http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c7/Vanillin2.svg", "http://upload....
35kn1h
why is venus only visible a few hours after sunset?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/35kn1h/eli5_why_is_venus_only_visible_a_few_hours_after/
{ "a_id": [ "cr5atwf" ], "score": [ 18 ], "text": [ "Venus's orbit lies between Earth's orbit and the Sun.\n\nDuring the day you can't see Venus for the same reason you can't see any stars - the Sun is too bright.\n\nDuring the night you can't see Venus for the same reason you can't see the Sun - ...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
1ow0uw
why do we use substitute words for some numbers like "dozen" for "twelve," but not for almost all other numbers?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1ow0uw/eli5_why_do_we_use_substitute_words_for_some/
{ "a_id": [ "ccw8btm", "ccw8wtv", "ccwcdbe" ], "score": [ 2, 10, 3 ], "text": [ "Would there be any use in having other words for most numbers? I think the words we do substitute are just shorthand ways of saying commonly used numbers: couple, dozen, score, ton...", "For some u...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
3lv1tf
how do employee owned grocery stores work? why are they a good thing?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3lv1tf/eli5_how_do_employee_owned_grocery_stores_work/
{ "a_id": [ "cv9jqjp", "cv9k865" ], "score": [ 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Not sure how they work but Winco is amazing! Here in NorNev it consistently beats Walmart prices on food and produce, and the employees get great pay.", "I work for an \"employee owned grocery store\". Basically, when yo...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
838y0x
why don’t countries start merging together? as globalization increases and borders shrink, why don’t countries like canada, usa, and mexico form a super country?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/838y0x/eli5_why_dont_countries_start_merging_together_as/
{ "a_id": [ "dvfza6l", "dvfzcmy", "dvfze5l", "dvfzf7m", "dvfzmmk", "dvfzpxq", "dvfzvrj", "dvg001f", "dvg0wm0", "dvg3dcp", "dvg59xe" ], "score": [ 26, 5, 14, 2, 2, 2, 19, 2, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Who retains power in th...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
d21o22
how are still images created to look like they're moving?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/d21o22/eli5_how_are_still_images_created_to_look_like/
{ "a_id": [ "ezsa6nf" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "It’s because that the human eye isn’t perfect, and flashing something at ~24 still images a second tricks our brain into perceiving movement" ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
amm8uk
how do fish control where they are in the water? why don’t they just float or sink?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/amm8uk/eli5_how_do_fish_control_where_they_are_in_the/
{ "a_id": [ "efn0tx8", "efng3nh" ], "score": [ 46, 2 ], "text": [ "Fish have a special organ called a \"swim bladder\" which regulates their buoyancy such that they tend to be about neutral, neither floating or sinking. Various sicknesses can cause problems with this balance which is why d...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isinglass" ] ]
7b4nrj
why does clicking with your left hand and clicking with your right hand produce a different tone?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7b4nrj/eli5_why_does_clicking_with_your_left_hand_and/
{ "a_id": [ "dpf68pe" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Snapping, you mean? Strength of muscles/handedness. Basically, with your dominant hand you have a more coordinated \"snap\" than with your non-dominant hand. Faster, more powerful movement = louder or different toned snap. " ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
8mrsgg
how do mobile services, that are disabled while in airplane mode, interfere with an airplane?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8mrsgg/eli5_how_do_mobile_services_that_are_disabled/
{ "a_id": [ "dzpuaon", "dzpvybh" ], "score": [ 29, 3 ], "text": [ "They don't. \n\nHowever, if an airplane was built incorrectly, it is possible that the signals send out by your mobile phone - mostly radio and microwaves - could induce an electric current in either the instruments or cont...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2b4aaw
how does reddit have 4 billion visitors in a year, but top posts rarely break 1k posts.
expound please
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2b4aaw/eli5_how_does_reddit_have_4_billion_visitors_in_a/
{ "a_id": [ "cj1nl6o", "cj1nmud", "cj1nmve", "cj1ntwz", "cj1pgho" ], "score": [ 7, 4, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Not every user up votes. Some users down vote.\nNot every user goes on the same sub reddit.\nNot every user is on at the same time.\n\nThat's a simple as it n...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
1q097l
besides bragging rights, for what reasons are countries still "racing" in space exploration?
I became curious about this after reading of India's recent launch of a spacecraft to Mars ([link](_URL_0_)), particularly this quote: > Some observers are viewing the launch of the MOM, also known by the informal name of Mangalyaan (Mars-craft), as the latest salvo in a burgeoning space race between the Asian power...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1q097l/eli5_besides_bragging_rights_for_what_reasons_are/
{ "a_id": [ "cd7y1yh" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "imagine being in 2nd grade and everyone had home packed sandwiches and juice boxes and you were the first kid to have that baller ass pizza lunchable and caprisun combo. \n\nnot only are you the coolest kid in the lunchroom, but you could trade t...
[]
[ "http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-24729073" ]
[ [] ]
blo1zl
what happens when lake mead reaches dead pool level?
Lake Powell too for that matter. With Lake Mead however hovering at around 30ft above being unable to generate electricity, what happens when the Hoover Dam power plants are forced to shut off? Is there enough excess grid capacity to absorb the sudden, and likely long term, loss of 2,080MW? For that matter, another 20...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/blo1zl/eli5_what_happens_when_lake_mead_reaches_dead/
{ "a_id": [ "empz0nm" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Lake Mead will shut off the water going to California before it gets to that level. The Power gen takes priority. But assuming even that is not sufficient then yes, they will have to shut off the power. No, there is not a back up that can produce...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
7ko31z
digital aliasing and the nyquist frequency
What is aliasing? What are some examples? What is the nyquist frequency in relation to aliasing?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7ko31z/eli5_digital_aliasing_and_the_nyquist_frequency/
{ "a_id": [ "drfuda7", "drg0pzl", "drg1qcz", "drgrgtq" ], "score": [ 6, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "The real world is analog, things like sound and radio are continuous oscillations. While quantum field theory is true, most all real-life things are much, much too large to have d...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
af4fvu
how has less than 10% of the ocean been discovered is 90% of it too deep?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/af4fvu/eli5_how_has_less_than_10_of_the_ocean_been/
{ "a_id": [ "edvdeps", "edveubb", "edvf03r", "edvfbe2", "edvnzs3", "edvt8gd", "edvvnyc", "edvxo97", "edw6gm9" ], "score": [ 217, 39, 133, 23, 32, 5, 4, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "The oceans are altogether 1.332 BILLION cubic kilometers in vol...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Challenger_Deep" ], [], [ "https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/how-much-of-the-ocean-is-still-unexplored.html" ], [], [], [], [], [] ]
7ilnre
why do some plants require more shade than others?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7ilnre/eli5_why_do_some_plants_require_more_shade_than/
{ "a_id": [ "dqzoi8v", "dqzx0ay" ], "score": [ 3, 3 ], "text": [ "Because some plants evolved in forests where the canopy of trees means that very little light reached the area where these plants grew. ", "Because they'll get a nasty sunburn otherwise. Shade loving plants are either sm...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1ljpyq
how does one fix their standing/sitting posture?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1ljpyq/eli5_how_does_one_fix_their_standingsitting/
{ "a_id": [ "cbzxehw", "cc03x7f" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "There are lots of things that could be wrong with a sitting/standing posture (Spinal curvature, excess body weight, nerve damage, tendonitis, deformations, sedentary lifestyle...)\n\nThe short answer is exercise, but we'd ne...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
6zhhfq
how did earth get its name? i read online that the name is derived from english and german words, but the few articles i read didn't give much info beyond that.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6zhhfq/eli5_how_did_earth_get_its_name_i_read_online/
{ "a_id": [ "dmva2l1", "dmva4dy", "dmvahns", "dmvav4f", "dmvaxt8" ], "score": [ 2, 3, 18, 5, 4 ], "text": [ "Which name? Different peoples may refer to it by different names. Although, in general, they tend to refer to ground or soil in some fashion. Presumably as p...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=earth" ], [ "http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=earth&allowed_in_frame=0" ], [], [] ]
5978ro
why is it that structures that are built on sand in the desert such as the pyramids have not crumbled or been buried by sand?
I understand why the great pyramids have not fallen, however with structures being built in the sand, how have massive sandstorms and wind not made for an uneven base with sand flying around. Or even if the pyramids are built on a solid base, how has sand not eventually covered the pyramids?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5978ro/eli5_why_is_it_that_structures_that_are_built_on/
{ "a_id": [ "d966p1o", "d968e86", "d968g7l" ], "score": [ 2, 12, 2 ], "text": [ "The Great Pyramids were not built on top of sand.\n\nThey were built on top of rock. ", "The pyramids of Giza stand on the bedrock of the Giza plateau.\n\nMost of the mastabas, pyramids and the Sph...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://content.satimagingcorp.com/static/galleryimages/quickbird-pyramids-egypt.jpg", "http://emerald.tufts.edu/alumni/magazine/spring2007/images/features/A5343_NS.jpg" ], [] ]
5sa08e
what's the point of having country-specific internet content?
In the past 24 hours, I have seen two front posts featuring SNL, but when I go to click on them, they're not available in Canada. What gives? Wouldn't it be more fiscally sensible to have a viewer base of 35 million more people?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5sa08e/eli5whats_the_point_of_having_countryspecific/
{ "a_id": [ "dddfgnx", "dddhnf9" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Typically, it means that some channel in Canada (or wherever) has bought the rights to broadcast the show there. That contract includes the rights to online streaming for viewers in that country. The original content owner j...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
3q7h3l
how can a sixteen month old baby read and say words?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3q7h3l/eli5_how_can_a_sixteen_month_old_baby_read_and/
{ "a_id": [ "cwcqe2y" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Everyone learns and comprehends at different rates. Some children have the capability and the mental ability to read and write even earlier than that, some claiming as early as 12-13 months. Others, stunded in growth sometimes never speak.\n\nAnd...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
33m0nz
why did switzerland decide to cap the mark (exchange rate?) and how/why did that have such a huge impact on the euro's value against the usd?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/33m0nz/eli5_why_did_switzerland_decide_to_cap_the_mark/
{ "a_id": [ "cqm9m5f" ], "score": [ 12 ], "text": [ "It was capped in the first place (in one direction only, btw) because believe it or not, the industrial sector is *much* more important to Switzerland's economy than the financial sector. \n\nHaving a cheap CHF relative to the Euro helps these c...
[]
[]
[ [] ]