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1mune0
why do a majority of white people not like being pale?
As a person of color, this always confused me. I love all skin tones so it baffles me that majority (not all, obviously) of white people are so unhappy/self-depracating about pale skin. I feel like many black and latin cultures teach you to love your skin tone and embrace it, but so many of my white friends go tanning...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1mune0/eli5_why_do_a_majority_of_white_people_not_like/
{ "a_id": [ "cccr8y3", "cccrdxb", "cccrgbh", "cccrq8q", "cccrsd6", "cccrtvo", "cccsiaa", "ccctvnz" ], "score": [ 3, 9, 5, 2, 4, 2, 5, 2 ], "text": [ "It's definitely regional. Probably just a lot of 'grass is greener...' given that there are ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
1ton93
why water goes down so smoothly when you chug it and alcohol does not?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1ton93/eli5_why_water_goes_down_so_smoothly_when_you/
{ "a_id": [ "cea0gfp" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Alcohol excites [the squamous cells lining the esophagus](_URL_1_). It is actually a poison for cells. From here on I speculate: Possibly nerves report to the brain and that just won't give you an easy time swallowing poison...\n\nAs an aside, al...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://peer.tamu.edu/curriculum_modules/Cell_Biology/module_2/hazards.htm", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Squamous_epithelial_cell", "http://alcalc.oxfordjournals.org/content/38/6/537.full", "http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a9/Alcohol_consumption_per_capita_world_map.PNG", "ht...
2yizpc
cabin pressure in commercial airplanes.
If you buy a bag of chips at the airport and take it on the plane with you, the bag will expand to the point of almost popping as you climb to 35,000 feet. I always thought that airplane cabins were "pressurized" such that if you open the door to the outside world while cruising the cabin would lose pressure and it w...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2yizpc/eli5_cabin_pressure_in_commercial_airplanes/
{ "a_id": [ "cp9z2co" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Airplane cabins are pressurized, just not to a full atmosphere of pressure. Most high-altitude planes cabins are pressurized to the equivalent of 7000-8000 foot altitudes." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
28nfxt
why are newer starwars considered so bad compared to the originals?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/28nfxt/eli5_why_are_newer_starwars_considered_so_bad/
{ "a_id": [ "cickjoc", "cicks8o", "cickze7", "cicl1zr", "cicl4mt", "cicl7kh", "ciclafg", "ciclgyz", "ciclulo", "ciclvwr", "cicmaeo" ], "score": [ 4, 2, 4, 2, 13, 8, 2, 7, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "For the answer, look at t...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://redlettermedia.com/plinkett/star-wars/star-wars-episode-1-the-phantom-menace/" ], [], [ "http://redlettermedia.com/plinkett/star-wars/" ], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VgICnbC2-_Y&feature=youtu.be&src_vid=JAbug3AhYmw&feature=iv&anno...
6ujfmv
how does unsupervised machine learning work?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6ujfmv/eli5_how_does_unsupervised_machine_learning_work/
{ "a_id": [ "dlt4ovb" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "[This video explains it well](_URL_0_)\n\nThe approach isn't far from brute forcing the pin for the parental lock your TV. Given a desired goal, you start mashing controls until you get what you want. First you try 1111, then 1112, etc until it ...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qv6UVOQ0F44" ] ]
3b6kcm
how can older movies be presented on the blu-ray format without downgrading the quality of the film?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3b6kcm/eli5_how_can_older_movies_be_presented_on_the/
{ "a_id": [ "csjag3y", "csjalpk", "csjbjre" ], "score": [ 19, 3, 3 ], "text": [ "Movies shot on film still have a higher resolution than we can match with digital. A new high definition transfer of an older film-based movie can easily be as high resolution as Blu-Ray can handle.", ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
9e3w6o
why does our brain enjoy solving puzzles?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9e3w6o/eli5_why_does_our_brain_enjoy_solving_puzzles/
{ "a_id": [ "e5lwlxa", "e5lxbio", "e5m04qx" ], "score": [ 14, 6, 4 ], "text": [ "Your brain is just like your muscles. You feel stronger when you lift weights, and solving puzzles are like lifting weights for your brain, and your brain likes that", "Humans, like most animals, a...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
5cmjx2
why do so many people seem to fall for scam artists?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5cmjx2/eli5_why_do_so_many_people_seem_to_fall_for_scam/
{ "a_id": [ "d9xo2lx", "d9xtdod", "d9xu67z", "d9xxz1z", "d9xza81" ], "score": [ 19, 5, 19, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "A lot of scams prey on ignorance and familiarity \n\nThink about the typical \"You've won x amount of money\" emails, you may not fall for them because you ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [ "http://www.businessinsider.com.au/why-nigerian-scam-emails-are-obvious-2014-5?r=US&IR=T" ], [] ]
5p1f6g
how does a restaurant with a large menu have the right food for a night of service when they don't know what people will order?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5p1f6g/eli5_how_does_a_restaurant_with_a_large_menu_have/
{ "a_id": [ "dcnnybw" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "They keep stocks slightly higher than the standard amount sold of an item on a given night. If they run out they tell the customer that something is out of stock and no longer available. " ] }
[]
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[ [] ]
29zfku
how wireless technology was first discovered
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/29zfku/eli5how_wireless_technology_was_first_discovered/
{ "a_id": [ "cipzvt5", "ciq0hm5" ], "score": [ 2, 4 ], "text": [ "Well, it's not like one day someone discovered a bluetooth headset or anything. It's just been a long process, step-by-step, understanding how electromagnetic radiation works, how we can control it, and what sorts of uses it...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2nud7i
why is the us more friendlier with the saudis over the russians? (well until crimea anyways... both are major oil producers but the russians are closer in culture and heritage)
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2nud7i/eli5why_is_the_us_more_friendlier_with_the_saudis/
{ "a_id": [ "cmgy0xq", "cmgye88", "cmgzhnm" ], "score": [ 6, 3, 3 ], "text": [ "First, alliances are not about culture and heritage, but about interests. After all, North and South Korea had *identical* culture and heritage, but were—and, of course, still are—run by people with ver...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
afokms
why can you only use emergency exits during an emergency?
This seems like a waste of a perfectly usable door. I understand that they trigger an alarm to indicate that there is a need to evacuate an area, but couldn't they just have a button next to the door to sound an alarm?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/afokms/eli5_why_can_you_only_use_emergency_exits_during/
{ "a_id": [ "ee0a5eh", "ee0rjy9", "ee13efp", "ee2aqrp" ], "score": [ 16, 3, 4, 2 ], "text": [ "Such doors are usually located in areas with poor security. Businesses don't want them used for shoplifting. Theaters don't want them used for sneaking in.", "The alarms are n...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
u76hn
austrian school and the austrian business cycle theory
I am subscribed to the /r/economics subreddit and they always talk about the Austrian School so a wiki read didn't reveal anything about the core concept of the Austrian and why it is criticized by US economists. So can you explain it like I am five?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/u76hn/eli5_austrian_school_and_the_austrian_business/
{ "a_id": [ "c4sy6kt", "c4sylf0", "c4sz1nl", "c4t0fos", "c4t6beq", "c4t6ga8" ], "score": [ 27, 6, 13, 3, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "It is rather hard to explain an entire school of economics at a 5 year-old level, especially without writing a short book, but I'll tr...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0nERTFo-Sk" ], [], [], [] ]
83d5o9
why do non-rechargable/single use batteries last longer than rechargable ones?
I recently bought a pack of rechargable AA batteries and promptly returned them when I read they had to be replaced and recharged every couple of hours in like a TV remote. Why do non-rechargable batteries last for months?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/83d5o9/eli5_why_do_nonrechargablesingle_use_batteries/
{ "a_id": [ "dvh2b0d", "dvh6znu", "dvhf19l" ], "score": [ 8, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "They don't need to be recharged every couple of hours. They need to be recharged after a couple of hours of **use**. \n\nIn this instance, that would mean pushing a button on your TV remote and holdin...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
6b3kxz
when looking at used car ads, i see many claims of "highway miles." is prolonged use at high rpms better for the car than short stop-and-go use? why?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6b3kxz/eli5_when_looking_at_used_car_ads_i_see_many/
{ "a_id": [ "dhjhaic" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Engines are designed to work optimally at running temperature and a certain RPM. If you run it on lower speed and lower temperatures it will not get efficient combustion and start making sot and tar instead of clean exhaust products. You might no...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
dfewvw
why does solid food taste good when you're chewing it, but is disgusting when you blend it into a smoothie?
Say you're eating a hamburger, it tastes good. Now blend in into a smoothie, and it's disgusting! Why? It's still the same ingredients. Does texture affect the way we taste?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dfewvw/eli5_why_does_solid_food_taste_good_when_youre/
{ "a_id": [ "f32lstn", "f32rbpb", "f33fwdw", "f33vywv" ], "score": [ 17, 5, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "There's whole field of science dedicated to this.\nThe simple answer is, yes, texture does affect taste.", "As someone who worked in a nursing facility kitchen and had to blen...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
1we9c0
why is it is it easier to be nice to strangers and acquaintances than to people we actually care about?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1we9c0/eli5_why_is_it_is_it_easier_to_be_nice_to/
{ "a_id": [ "cf16pm1", "cf17dii", "cf1831u", "cf194ld", "cf1dugi" ], "score": [ 6, 2, 5, 14, 2 ], "text": [ "You take the close people for granted. ", "You'd have to define what you mean by being nice and what you mean by people we care about.\n\n\nChances are p...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
svmrk
why congress can get away with repackaging unpopular bills (sopa - > cispa, etc.) over and over until they finally get passed?
Didn't we already make it clear that this is a Bad Thing?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/svmrk/eli5_why_congress_can_get_away_with_repackaging/
{ "a_id": [ "c4hcpbz", "c4hcrj9", "c4hcs03", "c4hcy6w", "c4hcyyb", "c4hd0hu", "c4hd0kd", "c4hd5nm", "c4hdbrv", "c4hdet2", "c4he9m6", "c4heafd", "c4hgviy", "c4hgzfz", "c4hhg4p", "c4hinm2", "c4hise0", "c4hl0v1" ], "score": [ 17, 29, ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://reddit.com/r/politics" ], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
346gbg
how do electrical systems on a jet operate?
Is it like a car, where an alternator charges the battery using engine power or is there some other way a jet harnesses electricity?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/346gbg/eli5_how_do_electrical_systems_on_a_jet_operate/
{ "a_id": [ "cqronr9" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "There are alternators in each engine casing. They provide electricity to the main batteries and the auxiliary systems batteries that power the on-board electrical systems." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
10an2t
music equalizers.
How do they effect the music? What do they change?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/10an2t/eli5_music_equalizers/
{ "a_id": [ "c6bta7e" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "An EQ or equalizer shapes the tone of the sound: the low end/frequencies, the mid frequencies, and the high end frequencies.\n\nSimple EQ's have a predetermined \"crossover\" that separates the lows, mids and highs. The lows will usually range fr...
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[]
[ [] ]
181or5
game theory in sociology/psychology
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/181or5/eli5_game_theory_in_sociologypsychology/
{ "a_id": [ "c8awj6a" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "I agree with daafuzz\n\n\nI will add that these game\nTheory tests works well in control groups. Even better when is explained to the group that they can gain more with cooperative attitudes. \n\ngame theory has a fee things to say about the cla...
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[]
[ [] ]
2odif2
why do the launches of space shuttles look like they're traveling so slow?
When they launch it looks like they're going really slow, when in reality I know they are going hundreds if not thousands of miles an hour.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2odif2/eli5why_do_the_launches_of_space_shuttles_look/
{ "a_id": [ "cmm370u", "cmm3765", "cmm3uot" ], "score": [ 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "When they're close to the ground, they're still accelerating, so they're not that fast.\n\nBy the time they've accelerated to very high speeds, they're far away, so they don't seem to move that quickly....
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
2v0ct7
why do some wires, such as phone chargers, eventually become fussy and work only when placed into a very specific position?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2v0ct7/eli5_why_do_some_wires_such_as_phone_chargers/
{ "a_id": [ "codarby" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Cables like that are made up of a bunch of very thin wires inside. If you abuse your cables, such as by coiling them up very tightly, you can break the internal wires or the connections between the wire & the connector.\n\nTreat your cables we...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
ktt4e
how are we able to control the flight of objects we send to space?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ktt4e/how_are_we_able_to_control_the_flight_of_objects/
{ "a_id": [ "c2n674s", "c2n6aft", "c2n674s", "c2n6aft" ], "score": [ 4, 2, 4, 2 ], "text": [ "An object in motion stays in motion, unless it is acted on by another force.\n\nSo, if you push something in space, it will generally keep moving in that direction. The gravity of ...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gravity_assist" ], [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gravity_assist" ] ]
fzaftt
why real phenomena like alternating voltage or current are represented by complex numbers?
I asked my friend this and he said, "It's represented in such a way to make calculations easier since writing out it's sinusoidal forms can be tiring." But is it the only explanation? I'm talking about Single Phase AC circuits.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/fzaftt/eli5_why_real_phenomena_like_alternating_voltage/
{ "a_id": [ "fn3xoqf" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "I agree with your friend, but you're right to question if that's the only reason. Your friend is correct if you've ever tried to simplify a circuit diagram that has RLC components, it is much easier to combine the reactance of the LC components b...
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[]
[ [] ]
p6s7s
how cruise ships produce electricity
I don't know why this thought occurred to me, maybe it's because I'm going on a cruise tomorrow. I remember the last time I was on one and I was able to plug my laptop into a socket and use my laptop, recharge my phone, etc. I'm curious as to how ships produce electricity since they're not connected to a grid. Do they ...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/p6s7s/eli5_how_cruise_ships_produce_electricity/
{ "a_id": [ "c3myybw", "c3mz77y" ], "score": [ 17, 16 ], "text": [ "Same as a car, essentially - part of the power from the engine is used to drive a generator.", "Newer cruise ships use diesel-electric drive trains like locomotives. Engines turn huge generators, which then drive elec...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azimuth_thruster" ] ]
appedd
why does sun dried fruit does not rot?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/appedd/eli5_why_does_sun_dried_fruit_does_not_rot/
{ "a_id": [ "egad6xg", "eghan0n" ], "score": [ 5, 2 ], "text": [ "Rotting generally happens because of the actions of microbes. \n\nMicrobes, particularly the kinds that like fruit, like moist conditions. They are not adapted to surviving in dry conditions, such as those in dried fruit. ",...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2esx0a
why are a majority of currency symbols made from alphabetic letters? eg. $, ¢, ¥, £, ฿, ₩ etc
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2esx0a/eli5_why_are_a_majority_of_currency_symbols_made/
{ "a_id": [ "ck2mdpa" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Some are made from letters that have to do with the name of the denomination, such as the €uro, or ¢ents or ¥en.\n\nBut others, like $ have no apparent connection to the word Dollar. Except that the idea of the dollar originated in the $panish Pe...
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[ [] ]
7mwoz2
brine mining lithium
I originally wanted to learn how to "mine" lithium, and then I learned that the method of mining lithium is through "brine mining" and the Wikipedia page is extremely dense. _URL_0_
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7mwoz2/eli5_brine_mining_lithium/
{ "a_id": [ "drx8nsd" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "Basically they pump in salty water which is called brine and the material (lithium in your case) would disolve in it and then get pumped out. They then extract if from the fluid by evaporating it or adding chemicals that would cause it to precipi...
[]
[ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brine_mining" ]
[ [] ]
31cimi
why is it that books can stay on store shelves for years and be unharmed, but the second i buy them and put them on my bookshelf, the pages start to yellow?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/31cimi/eli5_why_is_it_that_books_can_stay_on_store/
{ "a_id": [ "cq0cbzg", "cq0dpk3", "cq0drm0", "cq0heeq" ], "score": [ 8, 11, 5, 4 ], "text": [ "Could it be the 10 packs of cigarettes you smoke indoors everyday?", "Book stores have specially calibrated air conditioning that keeps the books in perfect condition. They do...
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[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
2qz32u
why does the electric company provides incentives to purchase cfl over incandescent light bulbs?
Doesnt the electric company makes money of off kW/hr? So more usage = more revenue?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2qz32u/eli5_why_does_the_electric_company_provides/
{ "a_id": [ "cnavm26", "cnaw06q", "cnaw0bp", "cnaxxt0" ], "score": [ 3, 7, 4, 2 ], "text": [ "Government gives power co money (Grants) to reduce emissions/promote energy efficiency, so they don't give them out of their pocket.\n\nAlso, These mobs aren't exactly short of mon...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
9v9lsg
why are so many children books/cartoons based around animals?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9v9lsg/eli5_why_are_so_many_children_bookscartoons_based/
{ "a_id": [ "e9ae0tm", "e9ahw1m" ], "score": [ 23, 3 ], "text": [ "It’s easier for kids to relate to and morph subjects that are typically tough into more light-hearted content because they are “animal” problems instead of “human” problems. Anthropomorphism goes a long way. ", "You see...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
auxv1r
why is the illuminati or new world order viewed as bad?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/auxv1r/eli5_why_is_the_illuminati_or_new_world_order/
{ "a_id": [ "ehb87to" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Simply put, it’s because the idea that a few. vastly wealthy, *unelected* individuals are controlling the majority, if not all, of the worlds states, finances, corporations means there is no accountability. \n\nThey own media outlets so they can ...
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[ [] ]
41mesc
why are electric skateboard so expensive?
Why is it that electric skateboards are so expensive however there are things like "hoverboards" that although $500 are literally a third of the price? What makes electric skateboards so expensive, aren't they just some batteries and motors.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/41mesc/eli5_why_are_electric_skateboard_so_expensive/
{ "a_id": [ "cz3gpor" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Electric motors and batteries are expensive. You figure that's a lot of copper windings in the motor, rare earth magnets too. However if you notice, those \"hoverboards\" are actually catching on fire a lot due to cheap manufacturing processes. S...
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[ [] ]
3slxi0
what is the difference between a resident physician and a practicing doctor?
As a nursing student, this is something I've always been confused by. Do resident physicians decide what treatments need to be carried out, and are there specific procedures they cannot do or make the call on? How long do they go through the residency program and what do they have to do to become a licensed practicin...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3slxi0/eli5_what_is_the_difference_between_a_resident/
{ "a_id": [ "cwyelg6" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "A resident has finished medical school but has not had the opportunity to specialize or be on their own. Residencies are to give the new MD those opportunities while also being under someone to make sure they don't screw up too much. After a 3+ y...
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[ [] ]
eqs0d3
why/how do intravenous medicines leave different tastes in your mouth when given?
I recently had surgery, and noticed distinct tastes in my mouth when I received different medications, as well as when they flushed out the IV (metallic copper taste). How is this as they are not taken orally?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/eqs0d3/eli5_whyhow_do_intravenous_medicines_leave/
{ "a_id": [ "fewgfid" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "I did some research on this recently because this taste was causing my mom significant nausea and occasional vomiting during chemotherapy. Basically, some medications have different types of preservatives added to keep the product stable. We noti...
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[ [] ]
9krcv4
what is chirped pulse amplification?
The 2018 Nobel Prize for physics has been awarded for this... and I have no idea what it means
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9krcv4/eli5_what_is_chirped_pulse_amplification/
{ "a_id": [ "e71j2bn" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Basically we've been struggling for a few years to increase the power of the lasers we have. It's been pretty much flat, this research finally got us passed that. \n\n[NPR](_URL_0_) did a story on it. " ] }
[]
[]
[ [ "https://www.npr.org/2018/10/02/653576926/scientists-from-u-s-canada-france-split-nobel-prize-in-physics-for-laser-work" ] ]
1wfssr
onion routing and tor
I would appreciate it if someone could succinctly explain onion routing to me in a way my pea-sized brain could understand. Please and thank you!
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1wfssr/eli5_onion_routing_and_tor/
{ "a_id": [ "cf1kxka" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Basically onion routing works like this. You have a long list of entry nodes, and exit nodes.\n\nWhen you start 'onion routing', you connect to an entry node (normally semi-random, which ever has the lowest ping, so geographically), then you'll r...
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36lnm6
how does your body feed itself when you don't eat food for a smaller period of time?
I am talking about 3-4 days. I know it takes the resources from your remaining muscles and fat in your body, but how exactly does the process work? How does your body take the resouces?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/36lnm6/eli5_how_does_your_body_feed_itself_when_you_dont/
{ "a_id": [ "crf26t8" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Think of your body as a laptop. When it's plugged in you can use the electricity (food) to run the laptop and it gets everything it needs from being plugged in. However, simultaneously it also charges up and saves some energy in the battery (fat ...
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8dqys5
why is the term "patient zero" instead of "patient one?"
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8dqys5/eli5_why_is_the_term_patient_zero_instead_of/
{ "a_id": [ "dxpaard", "dxpasjn" ], "score": [ 11, 17 ], "text": [ "It is a misunderstanding.\n\nThe term comes from research on the early transmission of AIDS. One of the early vectors was Canadian flight attendant Gaëtan Dugas, who in studies was referred to as Patient O (\"oh\", not \"...
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qp1mg
why video game trailers ask for your birthdate, but porn sites are just one-click to get in
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/qp1mg/eli5_why_video_game_trailers_ask_for_your/
{ "a_id": [ "c3zany5", "c3zccu9", "c3zcv25", "c3zitz6" ], "score": [ 17, 12, 6, 2 ], "text": [ "~~Video games companies are often sued. When somebody does a bad thing, like killing people, sometimes people will blame the video games that they were believed to have played. V...
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[ [], [ "http://arstechnica.com/gaming/news/2010/03/m-rated-video-the-esrb-and-video-game-trailers.ars", "http://www.esrb.org/ratings/downloads/ewc_code.pdf" ], [ "http://www.esrb.org/ratings/downloads/ewc_code.pdf" ], [] ]
2qewzj
why is elvis still big as a cultural icon?
He's been dead for 37 years but he has his own radio station, his own theme park, his own candle light vigil on the Eve of his death, and he still has a huge impact on American culture... Why does he have such a big impact today compared to Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, or Michael Jackson? What makes him special?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2qewzj/eli5_why_is_elvis_still_big_as_a_cultural_icon/
{ "a_id": [ "cn5i5i6" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "Elvis is the highest selling solo artist of all time with more than 600 million records sold in the U.S alone. The population of the U.S. was only 200 million in his prime. Elvis has the most hits in the Top 100, the Top 40, The Top 10, and has h...
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9njs3h
why do particular spots on the body have a pulse?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9njs3h/eli5_why_do_particular_spots_on_the_body_have_a/
{ "a_id": [ "e7mr3yf" ], "score": [ 9 ], "text": [ "Blood pushes through the long tracks that cover your body to keep you healthy. Some of these tracks are closer to the skin than others, the close ones can be felt as pulses. " ] }
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29e0dj
how do those satirical interview on the daily show work?
Are they real? Do the interviewees aware that they're being lampooned? Is it heavily edited? Why do people still agree to be on the show or are they actually just actors?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/29e0dj/eli5_how_do_those_satirical_interview_on_the/
{ "a_id": [ "cik0x1w", "cik10sm", "cik15zp", "cik1j9y", "cik1qa5", "cik23pt", "cik27k3", "cik2a8u", "cik31kf", "cik3pf2", "cik3to4", "cik45p1", "cik490g", "cik4boq", "cik4uim", "cik4yam", "cik52y2", "cik55sj", "cik56n6", "cik57k8", "c...
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[ [], [], [ "http://hij.sagepub.com/content/14/2/212.abstract" ], [], [], [ "http://www.mediaite.com/tv/peter-schiff-takes-mediaite-inside-the-daily-show-hit-job/" ], [], [], [], [ "http://youtu.be/DfiL2hpnmZ0" ], [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cognitive_dissonance#Bel...
39xmif
if identical twins have the same dna, how come they are not 100% perfectly identical?
slightly different heights, different fingerprints etc.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/39xmif/eli5_if_identical_twins_have_the_same_dna_how/
{ "a_id": [ "cs7d9sv", "cs7di0h" ], "score": [ 6, 2 ], "text": [ "One, genetic changes. Mistakes are made in DNA copying, both from the original zygotes (sex cells), and within the child. Major effects of minor genetic anomalies are fairly rare, since humans use stem cells, where specific ...
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[ [ "http://www.funnyjunk.com/imgrd/rd/pictures/25/02/250261_5118213.jpg/" ], [] ]
c9so95
why can't commercial aircrafts fly over the arctic circle to reduce flight time?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/c9so95/eli5_why_cant_commercial_aircrafts_fly_over_the/
{ "a_id": [ "et29zd0", "et2d3bt" ], "score": [ 3, 3 ], "text": [ "They sometimes do. Flights between extreme northern locations, like Iceland, Russia, and Canada fly over the Arctic Circle as opposed to following the latitude line.\n\nBut further south by too much, and they make better tim...
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32qbkt
the difference between american 'liberal' and british 'liberal'
There seems to be two definitions of the word liberal...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/32qbkt/eli5_the_difference_between_american_liberal_and/
{ "a_id": [ "cqdm7qj", "cqdmaif", "cqdoohz" ], "score": [ 5, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "UK calls liberals what the US calls libertarians.\n\nIn the UK people who would be called liberals are in the Labour party.", "There is! And in fact, most of the rest of the world uses liberal diffe...
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[ [], [], [] ]
1vvw1s
why do some companies put coupons on their products that give the customer say for example an automatic $2 off? why not make the price $2 cheaper?
I bought something the other day and this happened to me. It made me wonder why companies do this, sometimes they're almost hidden on the product or hard to peel off.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1vvw1s/eli5why_do_some_companies_put_coupons_on_their/
{ "a_id": [ "cew9kew", "cew9pmt", "cew9u6m", "cewn4p8" ], "score": [ 7, 8, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "The manufacturer can't force the retailer to drop their price $2. So they offer coupons instead, which are widely accepted, to facilitate the price drop.", "Finding a coupon fo...
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
24vf85
how can a sniper rifle be accurate at long range but so bad close??
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/24vf85/eli5how_can_a_sniper_rifle_be_accurate_at_long/
{ "a_id": [ "chb0in3", "chb0khl" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "What do you mean by close range?\n\nThe probably with very close shooting for a sniper rifle is that you can't use the scope, which is necessary for aiming the rifle. Also, that if you use the scope it is focused for a longe...
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[ [], [] ]
6g4yoy
why on open highways do drivers generally drive in clusters? usually someone blocking left lane as well.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6g4yoy/eli5_why_on_open_highways_do_drivers_generally/
{ "a_id": [ "dinj1go", "dinl98y", "dinny52", "dinsgv4", "dinxlnw" ], "score": [ 4, 9, 11, 3, 6 ], "text": [ "The is because someone drive slower then then the other cars and faster cars will catch up. And it takes som time to pass the car and therefor the will be a...
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[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
cyup2w
why is it that animals such as a bat or sloth can hang upside down for long periods of time but a human cannot?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/cyup2w/eli5_why_is_it_that_animals_such_as_a_bat_or/
{ "a_id": [ "eyuar7v", "eyuawan" ], "score": [ 48, 8 ], "text": [ "Humans would suffer because we haven't evolved to maintain that position for very long, and blood would struggle to flow correctly, and begin to pool in the head. Bats and sloths by contrast have specialized valves and musc...
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7q6gin
intermittent fasting
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7q6gin/eli5_intermittent_fasting/
{ "a_id": [ "dsmt5sg" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Intermittent fasting is a way to schedule food intake for multiple reasons. These reasons might include: easier counting of calories because it's easier for us to watch one meal a day; we're after the hormonal effects of eating one large meal a d...
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b892ha
what is blood plasma?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/b892ha/eli5_what_is_blood_plasma/
{ "a_id": [ "ejwhkd0", "ejwhlwu", "ejxg3m3" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Blood plasma is the part of blood that's not red, white, or platelets. Basically, it's the liquid part of blood.", "It's the bit of the blood that *isn't* blood cells, the liquid part. Mostly it's w...
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[ [], [], [] ]
7wl66e
what's the difference between chinese taipei & taiwan (if any)?
I don't know about others, but I found the aforementioned state names confusing. I know both state names have their roots in China, but I'd like for someone to put an end to my confusion as far as my query goes
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7wl66e/eli5whats_the_difference_between_chinese_taipei/
{ "a_id": [ "du16nv9" ], "score": [ 8 ], "text": [ "Once upon a time, \"China\" referred to both Mainland China and the Island of Formosa (now Taiwan).\n\nWhile, to most people, \"China\" and \"Taiwan\" very obviously refer to Mainland China (People's Republic of China - PRC) and the island of For...
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1zio31
why are many despots like putin so powerful individually? in reality doesn't it take everyone beneath him to reinforce his status and create his power for him by following all his orders?
Is it because of a cult like status in DPRK or something else thats making everyone working in the government agencies below him, the police, army, etc and in parliament bow down before him? Why doesnt anyone else want that power? What gives him alone all the power? Why are people so loyal to him?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1zio31/eli5_why_are_many_despots_like_putin_so_powerful/
{ "a_id": [ "cftzyc3" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "This just addresses the portion asking how he keeps power.\n\nIt doesn't take everyone under him to follow orders, only enough people. And they're loyal for different reasons. \n" ] }
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1uv5br
how does a person "get over someone" that they've loved and can no longer be with? is there something within our brains?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1uv5br/eli5_how_does_a_person_get_over_someone_that/
{ "a_id": [ "celyvg9", "cem4zuc" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "The grieving process denial, anger, depression and acceptance no one grieves the same and it doesn't always happen in that order, some people bounce around never accepting it. ", "On a psychological level everyone must ...
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5s8coj
why do engines produce max power at certain rpm?
Shouldn't power and RPM correlate?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5s8coj/eli5_why_do_engines_produce_max_power_at_certain/
{ "a_id": [ "ddd68if", "ddd6oqc" ], "score": [ 3, 3 ], "text": [ "There are lots factors that dictate when an engine is most efficient. The stroke of the crankshaft, the design of the cylinder heads and how they flow air etc. engines are usually designed to reach their peak power where the...
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c6vj2p
cbd full spectrum
Can it get you high or just relaxed?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/c6vj2p/eli5_cbd_full_spectrum/
{ "a_id": [ "esbhcew" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "I have a feeling that there are people who can do a better job of describing it then I can but oh well, here it goes. \n\nSo if you know anything about marijuana, you know about THC or tetrahydrocannabinol. It's the active ingredient that makes y...
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51skjn
since a fetus shares the same life supply as its mother, how can the child end up with a completely different blood type?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/51skjn/eli5_since_a_fetus_shares_the_same_life_supply_as/
{ "a_id": [ "d7ehf6b", "d7ei6hs", "d7eidrz", "d7eiwl5", "d7enent", "d7f1q7p", "d7f7i8r" ], "score": [ 132, 9, 6, 2, 96, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "The Placenta.\n\nIt acts as a nutrient exchange between fetal blood and maternal blood so they don't need to mi...
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[ [], [ "http://www.abclawcenters.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/medium.jpg" ], [], [], [], [], [] ]
4y76eq
if everything has equal and opposite reaction, where is antigravity?
I remember something about mass distorting space/time (we've all seen the plane with the earth pushing it down in space), but if that's the case, what is the thing doing the opposite (pushing away). Anti-matter?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4y76eq/eli5if_everything_has_equal_and_opposite_reaction/
{ "a_id": [ "d6lrm50", "d6lrorn", "d6m9w9z" ], "score": [ 9, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Everything is pulling on everything else. The gravity of the sun is attracting the earth, but the earth's gravity is also attracting the sun. The earth and the sun both exert the same force on each othe...
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dc8hur
what determines which cast member gets featured in the opening credits of a show?
I was watching The Office and I realised only Michael, Jim, Pam, Dwight, and Ryan were featured in the opening credits but not the rest of Dunder Mifflin Scranton. Why is that?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dc8hur/eli5_what_determines_which_cast_member_gets/
{ "a_id": [ "f277791", "f278wzi" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "The first names or the last names \"And Starring...\" are considered the most prestigious, and so actor's agents will negotiate for billing as part of their contract. Being elevated to the title credits of the show is usuall...
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agyobx
why do smokers not cough while smoking daily but cough after quitting?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/agyobx/eli5_why_do_smokers_not_cough_while_smoking_daily/
{ "a_id": [ "ee9yxlq", "ee9yy8t", "ee9zss5", "eea0974", "eea153h" ], "score": [ 22, 3, 3, 4, 10 ], "text": [ "Smoking causes death and paralysis of the cilia in your lungs. These are tiny hairs that move things up and out of your respiratory tracts. Smoking is also ...
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5d1gzs
how do video game developers make games for the next console if the next console has not been made yet?
Here are a few examples: * Final Fantasy XV is on the PS4. However, development started during the PS3 era in 2006. * The Last Guardian is on the PS4. However, development started during the PS3 era in 2007. How are games like these made?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5d1gzs/eli5_how_do_video_game_developers_make_games_for/
{ "a_id": [ "da11mxn", "da11sv9" ], "score": [ 2, 6 ], "text": [ "Initial development, such as ideas, game mechanics and artwork, don't require specific details of a computer system. Later things can be worked upon if the specification for the \"new\" console are generally known. ", "...
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[ [], [] ]
3xhzm6
how do employees at a suicide hotline or a psychiatrist/psychologist assess the risk of suicide?
Not just if there is a suicide risk present but how big is the risk of a suicide. Are there any guidelines for it? Also, if it's not too demanding to ask, what do they say to a person in risk in order to prevent suicide?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3xhzm6/eli5_how_do_employees_at_a_suicide_hotline_or_a/
{ "a_id": [ "cy4s12z", "cy4v393" ], "score": [ 10, 10 ], "text": [ "There generally isn't a gradual scale of risk, the assumption that everyone who calls needs the service. The only time there is a call for elevation (calling police, etc.) is when the caller makes a specific and immediate ...
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e7oyub
recently i saw a video where a zebra tries to drown the offspring of a rival male. how are animals in the wild able to tell the difference between their offspring and others’?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/e7oyub/eli5_recently_i_saw_a_video_where_a_zebra_tries/
{ "a_id": [ "fa287od", "fa2jjyx", "fa2loyr", "fa43n56" ], "score": [ 91, 9, 28, 2 ], "text": [ "The truth is, we really don't know for certain. It's kind of a drag really, not being able to just directly ask them. It also almost certainly varies because animals perceive the...
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b1k865
why add salt to a water softening system?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/b1k865/eli5_why_add_salt_to_a_water_softening_system/
{ "a_id": [ "eimafv7" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "\"Hard\" water is water that has a lot of non-sodium salts dissolved in it - calcium salts, potassium salts, etc. Those are the cause of build up on taps and in water heaters.\n\nWater softeners remove those salts through a process called \"ion ...
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a2es61
is water never produced, only recycled?
I read recently that the total amount of water on earth is always constant. Not a drop more, not a drop less. Everyone on the internet says contradicting things. What do you guys think?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/a2es61/eli5_is_water_never_produced_only_recycled/
{ "a_id": [ "eaxjg1h", "eaxkfnz", "eaxkgri", "eaxmbqu", "eaxmdun", "eaxmfhl", "eaxzcgf", "eay4z8b", "eayoz5w" ], "score": [ 18, 12, 3, 3, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Water is produced by burning all forms of hydrocarbons and is used b...
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
1x6k3x
how does internet explorer make money for microsoft?
Do they use it to collect data? Do they not need it to make money? I really don't know.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1x6k3x/eli5_how_does_internet_explorer_make_money_for/
{ "a_id": [ "cf8j2b5", "cf8jdlp" ], "score": [ 7, 8 ], "text": [ "IE's default search engine is Bing, and the default homepage is _URL_0_. They make lots of money on those.\n\nBy getting people to use IE, that means they are most likely not using Google's product and getting familiar with...
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[ [ "msn.com" ], [ "http://www.investopedia.com/stock-analysis/2012/how-do-internet-browsers-make-money-goog-msft-yhoo1227.aspx" ] ]
302xi1
relative to wages, are some things really cheaper now than they were in 1900?
?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/302xi1/eli5_relative_to_wages_are_some_things_really/
{ "a_id": [ "cpom4fy", "cpom5rz", "cpomuww" ], "score": [ 8, 4, 8 ], "text": [ "computers, televisions and other technology are crazy cheap in comparison to a few decades ago. a walkman for cassettes was $200-$300 new, now you can get an 8gb ipod for $100\n\nit all depends on where...
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[ [], [ "http://www.mybudget360.com/cost-of-living-2014-inflation-1950-vs-2014-data-housing-cars-college/", "https://fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/R42973.pdf" ], [ "http://cafehayek.com/2013/01/cataloging-our-progress-using-sears-com-selection-on-new-years-day-2013.html" ] ]
elnr5o
if tonsils are supposed to be the first line of defense against germs and bacteria, why would a tonsillectomy stop someone from getting strep or other bacterial infections?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/elnr5o/eli5_if_tonsils_are_supposed_to_be_the_first_line/
{ "a_id": [ "fdjbgak" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "Getting your tonsils removed is generally done to treat severe, recurrent or chronic tonsillitis, which is infection of the tonsils. They get all sore and inflamed. \n\nStep throat is an infection that affects your throat and tonsils and also mak...
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5n3bwx
betting: why can't you bet on both sides, i.e. $1.50 : $2.60 odds, make a guaranteed profit of at least $50?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5n3bwx/eli5_betting_why_cant_you_bet_on_both_sides_ie/
{ "a_id": [ "dc8djay" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Let's just say it's one to one odds.\n\n\nYou bet $10 for something and you bet $10 against something.\n\n\nCongratulations! You just paid yourself $10.\n\n\nOne bet losses $10. And the other pays $10." ] }
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edkgpd
what is the process by which mass gets converted into energy?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/edkgpd/eli5_what_is_the_process_by_which_mass_gets/
{ "a_id": [ "fbief4r", "fbiejfz" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Well I can get you started, what do you think a particle is? A very tiny small ball? \nthat's actually not what it is, fundamental particles are sizeless, they don't have a size, they don't take up any space what so ever to...
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[ [], [] ]
2bvwl3
the "market basket" situation
Could someone please explain what is going on with the boycott of the Market Basket supermarket chain? I feel lost as to how it got this point. Thanks
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2bvwl3/eli5_the_market_basket_situation/
{ "a_id": [ "cj9f96n", "cj9fdih" ], "score": [ 5, 2 ], "text": [ "Essentially the store is owned by the Demoulas family. It was started in 1906 in lowell and has grown to 71 stores since then. The original family sold it to their sons George and Telamachus (Mike) Demoulas for 15k. They own...
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[ [ "http://www.eagletribune.com/local/x1927887999/Arthur-vs-Arthur?zc_p=0" ], [] ]
8ajfuq
why can’t the cold sore virus be cured permanently?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8ajfuq/eli5_why_cant_the_cold_sore_virus_be_cured/
{ "a_id": [ "dwz36zf", "dwz7m0z", "dwzhgft" ], "score": [ 5, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "It’s hard to combat viruses. They attack your cells and can easily replicate once a cell replicates. It’s hard to attack them since they are relatively smaller than the cells themselves. There are medic...
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[ [], [ "https://www.reuters.com/article/us-herpes-treatment/new-approach-offers-chance-to-finally-kill-herpes-idUSN0229815620080702", "http://arrafunding.uchicago.edu/news/feature_roizman.shtml" ], [] ]
48urm6
what is the nuclear proliferation treaty and why do india, pakistan and a few others refuse to sign it?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/48urm6/eli5_what_is_the_nuclear_proliferation_treaty_and/
{ "a_id": [ "d0mp3w9", "d0mpkfd", "d0mqgjq", "d0muc0f", "d0mupuy" ], "score": [ 8, 7, 2, 11, 4 ], "text": [ "In simple terms. Advanced countries limit their nuclear weapon stocks. Developing countries wont sign because they believe they have the right to the weapons...
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[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
27p47k
why do many men's faces suddenly get puffy in their mid-20s and up?
Nothing like reconnecting with old high school friends to see that the women basically look the same (with some exceptions) but by-and-large the men have shockingly puffy faces, almost to the point of unrecognizability (some look like they got a bunch of bee stings in the face). These guys are not particularly overweig...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/27p47k/eli5_why_do_many_mens_faces_suddenly_get_puffy_in/
{ "a_id": [ "ci2z24r", "ci2zavv", "ci34nh2" ], "score": [ 14, 6, 2 ], "text": [ "They are overweight. Their clothes are hiding their stomachs. But I know exactly what you mean about the puffy face. \n\nI'm assuming you're about 5-10 years out of high school. Wait till you're 15-20 ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
5nt8db
how do services like square do 'instant deposits' to debit cards? what technology powers that?
I saw Square offers this feature, but it only works on 'some' debit cards. There is no explanation beyond that. What is the qualifying factor to make that happen? Chip vs no chip? Something else?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5nt8db/eli5_how_do_services_like_square_do_instant/
{ "a_id": [ "dcers5n" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "It's simply reverse debit. It's nothing special. When you return a product at certain stores they will ask you to swipe the card you used to buy it. Often times you can just swipe your debit card even if you bought it on a different credit car...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2icqiy
german sentence structure
I have researched it but I don't fully understand the format as in where what words go where in multiple positions. I thought maybe a ELI5 version would benefit me instead. Thanks!
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2icqiy/eli5_german_sentence_structure/
{ "a_id": [ "cl11yoj" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "German, like other languages such as Latin, doesn't structure it's sentences to give the words their meaning. Where English uses the position of a word to appoint it's grammatical function in a sentence, German uses Grammatical cases (_URL_0_). I...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grammatical_case" ] ]
19yz9h
anxiety disorders
What sort of things trigger attacks? What does it feel like to have an anxiety attack? How long do the attacks usually last? How does the person feel after an attack? Also, what causes anxiety disorder?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/19yz9h/eli5_anxiety_disorders/
{ "a_id": [ "c8skpkx", "c8sktqw", "c8smh2z", "c8smrhc", "c8sqd52", "c8sr2y6", "c8sr6r4" ], "score": [ 17, 4, 2, 3, 3, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "I have generalized anxiety disorder so I hope I can answer your questions to your liking. \n\nPanic attacks are a...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
3kcfmf
why are i.q. tests used as the primary standard for gauging intelligence?
Many IQ tests that I've seen really just boil down to pattern recognition, which is kind of a problem since intelligence isn't concretely defined by psychologists/neurologists anyway (that is to say, recognizing patterns isn't the only way to be intelligent). Yet when we think of someone as a genius, we say or think "T...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3kcfmf/eli5_why_are_iq_tests_used_as_the_primary/
{ "a_id": [ "cuweigq", "cuweny3", "cuwf3tn", "cuwg2ee", "cuwkian" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Pattern recognition is a very important part of intelligence. IQ tests do involve much more than that. As for why we use them... it's because we haven't reall...
[]
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[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
4mzywe
why is it flooding everywhere?
Texas forever, Mississippi, Vegas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma have already had notable flooding this year. Whats going on? Is a certain amount of flooding per year normal? Is this more than normal?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4mzywe/eli5_why_is_it_flooding_everywhere/
{ "a_id": [ "d3zobli", "d3zpzdh" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "A certain amount of periodic flooding is normal. However, as global warming continues, more ice is melting, and there is therefore more liquid water around, which means there will be more rain, more snow, larger storms, and ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
69osq7
why do humans have such long life cycles compared to most animals.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/69osq7/eli5_why_do_humans_have_such_long_life_cycles/
{ "a_id": [ "dh883uc", "dh88q6e", "dh8a4zq", "dh8afww", "dh8c1h0", "dh8cfzi", "dh8czm8", "dh8frws" ], "score": [ 92, 4, 4, 2, 12, 2, 21, 2 ], "text": [ "Idk if 'most animals' is accurate, but I guess it's relative. Lots of turtles, parrots, b...
[]
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
1v8jgs
how a complex operating system (like ubuntu) can run on a 2gb usb
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1v8jgs/eli5_how_a_complex_operating_system_like_ubuntu/
{ "a_id": [ "cepsxk7", "cepuu57" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "It doesn't \"run\" on the 2 GB USB. The USB acts in the same way that your hard drive works for Windows. \n\nWhen you boot in Linux, the bulk of the processes needed to run Linux are loaded from the USB into your RAM. From t...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1t93zy
why doesn't the topical application of disinfectants like alcohol select for resistance the way using antibiotic or antibacterial agents can?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1t93zy/eli5why_doesnt_the_topical_application_of/
{ "a_id": [ "ce5kvqh" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "Because alcohol kills everything. It's not possible for a microorganism to be resistant to alcohol. Alcohol is a tiny molecule that competes with water. Consequently, it's a dehydrating agent. Nothing can survive being catastrophically dehydrated...
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[]
[ [] ]
6n3l9k
why do people get red when they are hot? why does the area around the mouth and eyes turn white when they are about to have a heat stroke?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6n3l9k/eli5_why_do_people_get_red_when_they_are_hot_why/
{ "a_id": [ "dk6gcg0" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Bloodflow, blood is expanding the capillaries (blood vessels near the skin) to increase heat exchange. This causes changes in what blood is where in SEVERE SEVERE SEVERE case, because more blood is right on the surface. Eventually your body goes ...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://www.emsaonline.com/mediacenter/articles/00000166.html" ] ]
30rr42
why is raw salmon considered "safe to eat"
My parents gave me raw salmon for dinner and I wondered why it's safe to eat. I mean it's raw that means you should cook it first before ingesting it right?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/30rr42/eli5why_is_raw_salmon_considered_safe_to_eat/
{ "a_id": [ "cpv7lva", "cpv7r11", "cpv89do", "cpvaok0" ], "score": [ 15, 2, 6, 7 ], "text": [ "In general, actually, raw salmon is NOT safe to eat. It is only safe if it has been frozen to certain specifications, below a certain temperature for a period of time. Salmon tend...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [ "http://www.eatsushi.com/article.asp?X=628" ] ]
4kuorr
why do electronic artists still need tonnes of equipment? why can't a computer produce all the sound design they need?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4kuorr/eli5_why_do_electronic_artists_still_need_tonnes/
{ "a_id": [ "d3hw77g", "d3hyxbt", "d3hztkn" ], "score": [ 5, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Theoretically it can, its just very difficult, inefficient. And time consuming. While you can program each note into the computer its much easier to just use a midi keyboard.", "Another thing that'...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
45ag8j
since i live in a country, state, and city with modern waste water treatment facilities, how is running water while shaving, brushing teeth, showering, ect. wasting water?
Isn't water reclaimed, treated and reused? Since it is not destroyed (by changing states) can it truly be wasted?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/45ag8j/eli5_since_i_live_in_a_country_state_and_city/
{ "a_id": [ "czwbuu6", "czwbxuf", "czwbzkl", "czwc4fx", "czwdov2", "czwjrvf", "czwlvpn" ], "score": [ 2, 7, 6, 8, 21, 8, 2 ], "text": [ "I mean, you are still paying for it. So you are wasting money. Also, waste treatment facilities are not 100% effi...
[]
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
1jafvz
the relationship between andrew carnegie, john rockefeller and jp morgan
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1jafvz/eli5_the_relationship_between_andrew_carnegie/
{ "a_id": [ "cbcpd7l" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "#1 They were all insanely rich. As in, for their time, their wealth would trump that of Bill Gates. \n\n#2 They pushed forward major industries of the U.S. \n* Andrew Carnegie owned most if not all the steel industry\n* The same goes for Rockefel...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robber_baron_(industrialist)" ] ]
cyywr1
why is chemistry branched into organic and inorganic?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/cyywr1/eli5_why_is_chemistry_branched_into_organic_and/
{ "a_id": [ "eyv254f", "eyx2vwd" ], "score": [ 10, 2 ], "text": [ "Organic chemistry, or chemistry of Carbon, is so complex that it has as much or even more variety than all other chemicals combined. It's so complex that you basically spend an entire career just being an expert in Carbon-b...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
38aki4
why are cable companies constantly trying to push their home phone service? most people already have cell phones and it sounds like an added burden to their existing infrastructure.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/38aki4/eli5_why_are_cable_companies_constantly_trying_to/
{ "a_id": [ "crtl0r4", "crtl1h4", "crtn75b", "crtnqv3" ], "score": [ 5, 2, 9, 6 ], "text": [ "Money, if they can make $10/mo off of landline service, why not? \n \n > added burden to their existing infrastructure \n \nWhat burden would it create? Adding landlines aren'...
[]
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
5zlmuc
why do some people smell burnt toast before/during a heart attack?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5zlmuc/eli5_why_do_some_people_smell_burnt_toast/
{ "a_id": [ "dezadze" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "1. You're thinking of a stroke, not a heart attack.\n2. While smelling burnt toast is a popular example, it's only that, an example. It's meant to illustrate the point that a person having a stroke can sometimes experience strange, very specific...
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[]
[ [] ]
2eifb8
why does pointing a fan outside work better for cooling a room down?
As opposed to pointing it inside, which always seems to feel better.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2eifb8/eli5_why_does_pointing_a_fan_outside_work_better/
{ "a_id": [ "cjzsqn3", "cjzsuzt", "cjzt4e3", "cjzxnad" ], "score": [ 5, 14, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "It's easier to pull air out of a room than it is to try and push more in. You're fighting turbulence the fan creates and air pressure when pushing air into the room.\n\nYou're als...
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
2cf7mw
what is holding us back from developing a tire that does not need air and thus can't get a flat?
Edit: I was referring to car tires for those asking. Also, courtesy of /u/Schnutzel, it looks like they are currently a work in progress and the technical challenge that we are still facing is: "Airless tires generally have higher rolling resistance and provide much less suspension than similarly shaped and sized pne...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2cf7mw/eli5_what_is_holding_us_back_from_developing_a/
{ "a_id": [ "cjeusth", "cjeuswc", "cjeuyrz", "cjevuzw", "cjevx1u", "cjevxu1", "cjew73x", "cjewg2i", "cjewlww", "cjewz6c", "cjex424", "cjex5zf", "cjexe95", "cjey1mw", "cjeyc71", "cjeydhq", "cjezksw", "cjf0uwu", "cjf1b0l", "cjf4hzv", "c...
[]
[ "http://airless-tire.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/TweelAudi02-1024x682.jpg" ]
[ [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Airless_tire" ], [], [], [], [], [ "http://airless-tire.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/TweelAudi02-1024x682.jpg" ], [ "http://www.gizmag.com/reinventing-the-wheel--the-airless-tire/10398/" ], [ "http://www.goodyear.ca/en-CA/tires/category/run-flat"...
82ytm4
what are tariffs and why are people upset that the president wants to impose them?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/82ytm4/eli5_what_are_tariffs_and_why_are_people_upset/
{ "a_id": [ "dvdrvqd", "dvds0bz", "dvdslbl" ], "score": [ 5, 2, 28 ], "text": [ "Tariffs are just taxes on imports. When another country wants to sell their product domestically, we can tax them when the import that product for sale.\n\nThe current POTUS wants them because he feel...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
8owwfe
why is haggling commonplace at the car dealership but not at other stores?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8owwfe/eli5_why_is_haggling_commonplace_at_the_car/
{ "a_id": [ "e06rq87", "e06tr72", "e06v6wx", "e06xuw6" ], "score": [ 54, 4, 3, 10 ], "text": [ "Large ticket items like this are usually where the most negotiating happens. Same as buying a house, boat or RV. The sales model of dealerships lends itself to negotiation. \n\nP...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
ewzdmb
is there a limit to how much food we can process?
Assuming someone eating standard portions normally, is there a limit of how much food they can absorb? For example, if they eat to their physical limit every hour throughout one day or longer, (without throwing up) will some food essentially pass through almost undigested (without body actually getting much out of it),...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ewzdmb/eli5_is_there_a_limit_to_how_much_food_we_can/
{ "a_id": [ "fg5ibes" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Your body is really good at extracting nutrition. Your gut can slow down movement and take it's sweet time. Most people won't be able to eat enough regular food to actual shit out significant amounts of unabsorbed nutrition. The only real exce...
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[]
[ [] ]
3y8lir
why has there been a vinyl resurgence in the music industry?
What's the deal with vinyl records making a comeback? I feel old when I say that I don't really "get it." But, as a music lover, why should I care?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3y8lir/eli5_why_has_there_been_a_vinyl_resurgence_in_the/
{ "a_id": [ "cybfo0h", "cybfxoq", "cybh6do", "cybiew2", "cyblct9", "cybmfm1" ], "score": [ 2, 19, 53, 33, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "It's making a small resurgence, nothing big. In terms of being a music lover, the only \"benefit\" vinyl has is the sound of vinyl pl...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [ "https://m.imgur.com/a/9QvVO" ], [ "http://www.needledoctor.com/Clearaudio-Goldfinger-Statement-Phono-Cartridge" ], [] ]
2vts79
what would the short term consequences be (up to a few years) if the united states ended all corn subsidies?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2vts79/eli5_what_would_the_short_term_consequences_be_up/
{ "a_id": [ "cokuxbh" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Corn and corn syrup based produces (which are a lot of different products) would get a bit more expensive. And maybe some percentage of the corn crop was changed to grow something else that was more profitable." ] }
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[ [] ]
3ud3qx
why isn't cannibalism more common in extremely poor regions?
I'll start off saying I'm not supporting the idea of cannibalism. But I was thinking, in regions full of turmoil/extreme poverty, where people are consistently starving to death, why isn't cannibalism more of an issue? I know there's a huge difference between humans and all other animal species, but a lot of meat-eati...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3ud3qx/eli5_why_isnt_cannibalism_more_common_in/
{ "a_id": [ "cxdtktq", "cxdve1l", "cxdvqjc", "cxdw6av", "cxdxbz3", "cxdz2nx", "cxdz6lf", "cxeefq8" ], "score": [ 3, 14, 183, 5, 2, 12, 3, 7 ], "text": [ "Cannibalism is often associated with rites and rituals--eating the heart or liver of a d...
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[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuru_(disease)" ] ]