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a266le
why must a user enter “cents” in a bank atm machine if it doesn’t dispense coins?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/a266le/eli5_why_must_a_user_enter_cents_in_a_bank_atm/
{ "a_id": [ "eavhq8f", "eavljo3", "eavpfq0", "eaw7679", "eawtt18" ], "score": [ 22, 20, 2, 5, 3 ], "text": [ "When they're doing this the bank means to be very explicit about exactly how much money you were expecting to get so as to set expectations. ", "To make...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
453vjz
why does a 300$ phone recognise a fingerprint way faster than most fingerprint scanners that cost the same?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/453vjz/eli5why_does_a_300_phone_recognise_a_fingerprint/
{ "a_id": [ "czuyott", "czuyt9o", "czv1kau", "czv2dat", "czv7olo", "czv8x24", "czvddiq", "czvfunp", "czvkbuj", "czvn8ud", "czvpztu", "czvyxzs", "czvzdjx", "czw0ebl", "czw1e2q" ], "score": [ 39, 763, 2, 1430, 4, 28, 10, 8, ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
9eq4o0
- chapter 19 in nafta
Can someone please explain to me what Chapter 19 of the NAFTA agreement is all about? Why is it so important and why is the U.S. so pissed off about it? I did try Google but it just confused me more. I am in no way asking for your political opinion. Thanks!
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9eq4o0/eli5_chapter_19_in_nafta/
{ "a_id": [ "e5qnro8", "e5qnvc3", "e5qod3w", "e5qoocb" ], "score": [ 5, 5, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "From MacLeans (Canadian monthly publication if you are unfamiliar with it)\n\n“Chapter 19 allows Canada to bypass the U.S. judicial review process when the U.S. government imposes ...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://www.macleans.ca/opinion/why-naftas-chapter-19-is-worth-fighting-for/" ], [], [], [] ]
2882vz
do animals like birds, squirrels, etc. have fun or are they always in fear of predators?
Just wondering if we know that animals have fun or are they always living with some fear and the motive to acquire food, shelter, and avoid being killed by predators.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2882vz/eli5_do_animals_like_birds_squirrels_etc_have_fun/
{ "a_id": [ "ci8c3eb", "ci8c4vv" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "I know that squirrels have fun. They can often be seen chasing each other around. Other animals, such as rabbits, do this also.", "Birds, and other animals, are known to do things for the fun of it:\n\n- [Snowboarding cr...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUBMSnHH7hc" ] ]
29vqn6
does beating a cold infection make you less likely to get sick? why?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/29vqn6/eli5_does_beating_a_cold_infection_make_you_less/
{ "a_id": [ "cioyhd6", "ciozqh4" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Generally when your body is exposed to infection, it learns to fight it off. Say you are exposed to the flu. It enters your body and your white blood cells come to the rescue. Our body's temperature it almost a perfect tempe...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
5xdhdn
why are we using a loud, obnoxious *beep* to censor curse words?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5xdhdn/eli5_why_are_we_using_a_loud_obnoxious_beep_to/
{ "a_id": [ "deh9h2h", "deh9y0l", "dehayue", "dehi297" ], "score": [ 6, 10, 2, 4 ], "text": [ "I'm curious also, although I have heard the loud BEEP a lot less the past few years. Nowadays it seems to be mostly a small moment of silence to censor the curse words.", "I w...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
23kpej
how someone who is obviously in the wrong can win in court.
You hear stories about how someone who broke into a house hurt himself doing so, and sues the owners. How do they get away with that? Judges can't be that stupid. Isn't it obvious that hes in the wrong?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/23kpej/eli5_how_someone_who_is_obviously_in_the_wrong/
{ "a_id": [ "cgxyfnd" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Can you cite an actual case where this has happened? [Most of the cases circulating on the internet were false](_URL_0_). Actual lawsuits of similar nature either have more story behind it (McDonald coffee lady was served coffee so hot that she r...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://www.snopes.com/legal/lawsuits.asp", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punitive_damages" ] ]
expver
when you buy software, the source code usually is not made public, but doesn’t your computer still have to run the code to use the software? how can it run the code without allowing the user to see the code?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/expver/eli5_when_you_buy_software_the_source_code/
{ "a_id": [ "fgaztqs", "fgazuzh", "fgb0xd3", "fgb4p6t", "fgc6391" ], "score": [ 12, 3, 8, 29, 5 ], "text": [ "The computer doesn't run the software directly from the source code. At least not with most programming languages.\n\nWith something like C++ the source cod...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reverse_engineering", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obfuscation_(software\\)" ], [], [], [] ]
6ykgou
why is earth's terminal velocity around 120 mph rather than 9.8 m/s?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6ykgou/eli5_why_is_earths_terminal_velocity_around_120/
{ "a_id": [ "dmo2syd" ], "score": [ 6 ], "text": [ "You've made two false assumptions in this query. First, 9.8m/s has no meaning in this context. The acceleration of Earth's gravitational field is 9.8m/s^2, meaning that for each second an object with no resistance will accelerate an additional 9....
[]
[]
[ [] ]
7scn6m
why is it hard to read books, but easy to surf the web for hours?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7scn6m/eli5_why_is_it_hard_to_read_books_but_easy_to/
{ "a_id": [ "dt3r37h", "dt3r7mo", "dt3rnze", "dt3sqk8" ], "score": [ 7, 25, 5, 3 ], "text": [ "Searching for the same answer. Books have always been a huge part of my life. But lately the idea of committing myself to starting one gives me anxiety. So instead I read short th...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
vhdz2
what is the advantage of spending more money to buy an unlocked phone?
I see new phones like the Galaxy S3 going for $700 unlocked. What is the advantage of this?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/vhdz2/eli5_what_is_the_advantage_of_spending_more_money/
{ "a_id": [ "c54i7fm", "c54isis", "c54m3tz" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "The only advantages are that you can choose any provider and you can get a prepaid plan. If you text/ring a lot, it's better to not get an unlocked phone and just get a contract.", "One advantage is...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "http://www.vodafone.co.uk/brands/samsung/galaxy-s3/index.htm?icmp=int-vod-hpg-hb-bt1" ] ]
m1ca5
why shouldn't iran be allowed to have nuclear weapons?
There always seems to be a lot of talk about Iran getting ready to have their own nuclear weapons and I don’t really understand why the US (and other countries) is/are talking about it like it’s the worst thing that could ever happen. Why are the US & Russia (and others) “allowed” to have them if these people also sa...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/m1ca5/eli5_why_shouldnt_iran_be_allowed_to_have_nuclear/
{ "a_id": [ "c2x9ksx", "c2x9lb9", "c2x9mlz", "c2x9p3o", "c2xa0oc", "c2xa96m", "c2xaa52", "c2xae51", "c2xagj6", "c2xar3h", "c2xb07u", "c2xb7lo", "c2xbayr", "c2xbvxy", "c2xbwtk", "c2xbzkd", "c2xm6dn", "c2x9ksx", "c2x9lb9", "c2x9mlz", "c...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuclear_Non-Proliferation_Treaty" ], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2011/jun/09/iran-nuclear-power-un-threat-peace", "http://www.thedailybeast.com/newsweek/2009/05/22/mohamed-elbaradei-they-...
66i6xo
why do humans fear rejection?
After seeing multiple cases and being in the situation, Why do humans fear rejection?Be it romantic,team based sports,the workplace etc.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/66i6xo/eli5_why_do_humans_fear_rejection/
{ "a_id": [ "dgin2xq" ], "score": [ 7 ], "text": [ "We are social creatures which means we are evolved to be a part of a group. Rejection means we are not a part of the group we attempted to be in (or that we failed to get our mat, a biological imperative). Not being in the group for most of our h...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
1inya8
why is a living wage such a bad idea?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1inya8/eli5_why_is_a_living_wage_such_a_bad_idea/
{ "a_id": [ "cb6b1se", "cb6b2jc" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "I think a lot of the pressure against living wages comes from companies who argue that it will cut into their profit margin, force them to raise prices, or drive them out of business. I'd say most people working on minimum w...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1homz2
why do people get more upset when for example a dog dies than if an ant dies, even if they have no attachment to either animal?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1homz2/eli5_why_do_people_get_more_upset_when_for/
{ "a_id": [ "cawc2qz" ], "score": [ 8 ], "text": [ "Empathy. Dogs show similar emotional and behavioral traits to us so we relate to their experiences, their pain, the excitement etc. An ant has no behaviours or notable reactions that we can relate to so we are not able to put ourselves in their s...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2jw2m4
is a ripped up contract still legally binding?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2jw2m4/eli5_is_a_ripped_up_contract_still_legally_binding/
{ "a_id": [ "clfkfoc", "clfkndm", "clfkogh", "clfkyon" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Of course, otherwise why would you not just rip contracts you wanted to get rid of (I'm looking at you, cellphone contract). Of course you can argue that the contract said somethin...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
20r85y
why are hover boards so impossible to make?
Like i dont mean the hover boards that you ride on the street and water, but why not make a park specificly for that use? A skate park made of positive magnetic pads and boards with positive pads too. That should make the boards float right? What are the limitations and why is it so impossible to make something like th...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/20r85y/eli5_why_are_hover_boards_so_impossible_to_make/
{ "a_id": [ "cg5z146", "cg5z2t1", "cg5z666", "cg5z877", "cg63qn3", "cg6cmf2" ], "score": [ 2, 6, 49, 5, 7, 2 ], "text": [ "The implementation you're suggesting is expensive. It's possible, but it's expensive.\n\nSkate parks won't see much business if they're...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ws6AAhTw7RA" ], [], [], [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRNU_D_UImk" ] ]
3s380h
why is it that a human brain doesn't fully develop until age 25, even though that would have been around (or even past) middle aged for most humans throughout history?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3s380h/eli5_why_is_it_that_a_human_brain_doesnt_fully/
{ "a_id": [ "cwtole4", "cwtonhx", "cwtop42", "cwtos60" ], "score": [ 9, 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "This is actually a really common misconception, just because life expectancy was around 30 throughout most of history, doesn't mean that most people lived to be about 30. Infant m...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
64eg8i
why is is that at fast food restaurants (mcdonald's, starbucks, etc.) that they only give 10 minute breaks when all other places of work give 15?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/64eg8i/eli5_why_is_is_that_at_fast_food_restaurants/
{ "a_id": [ "dg1hs9b" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "You are incorrect, California only requires 10 minute breaks. [Here](_URL_0_) are the relevant laws.\n\nWhile many places give more than what is required by law (like 15 minute breaks) 10 is all that is required. " ] }
[]
[]
[ [ "https://www.calaborlaw.com/what-break-periods-am-i-entitled-to/" ] ]
267jmg
why do movie producers continue to put lengthy credits at the end of every movie when they know the audience won't watch them?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/267jmg/eli5_why_do_movie_producers_continue_to_put/
{ "a_id": [ "chodn9y", "choe19j", "choeaiq" ], "score": [ 8, 5, 5 ], "text": [ "Because people like recognition for the work they put into something. In a way, the credits are there for the people who are listed in the credits more than the people watching the movie. ", "Some a...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
5bahx6
what purification process does water undergo when you open the tap?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5bahx6/eli5_what_purification_process_does_water_undergo/
{ "a_id": [ "d9my8dz", "d9n0jhx", "d9n0lm2", "d9nc5re", "d9nmy5r" ], "score": [ 8, 40, 3, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Different water systems will use different methods, depending on what's in the water and what's feasible for the size of the system. Commonly there will be c...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
5tx4gr
since both light and sound could be measured by their frequencies, does that mean they are essentially the same, only that sound is in the audible frequency range and light in the visible frequency range?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5tx4gr/eli5_since_both_light_and_sound_could_be_measured/
{ "a_id": [ "ddpog9j", "ddpohet", "ddpoohh", "ddpow3l", "ddpoyhk", "ddpq3pf", "ddq5rm3" ], "score": [ 2, 7, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Sound is the transfer of energy as a waveform... Think of dropping a pebble in a pond. \n\nLight is photons(repres...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
9q3v68
why does it feel good to prove someone wrong?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9q3v68/eli5_why_does_it_feel_good_to_prove_someone_wrong/
{ "a_id": [ "e86f81f" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Knowledge is power, everyone loves power. It gives you more weight in the balance of power between two relative equals" ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3unxoc
what are chocolate diamonds?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3unxoc/eli5_what_are_chocolate_diamonds/
{ "a_id": [ "cxgdf7s", "cxgdf86" ], "score": [ 5, 11 ], "text": [ "Impure, low grade diamonds. They have their own novelty, but they are less rare then your pure white diamonds. Before you couldn't sell them as people found them ugly, but this new chocolate tag line really helps change peo...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
17gtc2
why dogs are so finicky about where they poo?
My dog didn't shit for three days because every time he found a spot he'd curl up, realize it wasn't good enough, and cancel the poo. My tiny brain cannot compute the evolutionary need for this.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/17gtc2/eli5_why_dogs_are_so_finicky_about_where_they_poo/
{ "a_id": [ "c85dobh", "c85h8mn", "c85hq8m", "c85p7cl" ], "score": [ 21, 2, 9, 2 ], "text": [ "Poop has a very distinct smell depending on the diet and predators can smell it from a long ways away. He couldn't find a spot that would be safe, and therefore he did not poop. I...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
f8kg11
what is lift and drag, and how does it apply to planes?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/f8kg11/eli5_what_is_lift_and_drag_and_how_does_it_apply/
{ "a_id": [ "filwwfx", "filx627", "filx7d9", "filxfkx" ], "score": [ 6, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Gravity pulls a plane down.\n\nLift is the upwards force generated by the wings. Wings generate lifting force because they're shaped like an [airfoil](_URL_0_), and as the air pas...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/proxy/rbIfxIuF0WRVwqwQcVT_4DFS9GnNAlKahW-Algfk0L95KfeW_LPaROPYsNSz1rVoWftQ1lP2YjrOdt5_AkZ08ldhqYkNkQjPmEkVgIU" ], [], [], [] ]
21dpfw
how does a "board of directors" work?
How are board members of large corporations also leaders of other companies? If they have such important jobs how do they find time to also be board members of another company? What about conflicts of interest? How do they become board members? Are they invited or do they apply? Are they paid a lot? Why do they appear ...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/21dpfw/eli5_how_does_a_board_of_directors_work/
{ "a_id": [ "cgc26j6" ], "score": [ 24 ], "text": [ "Board members don't have to be employees of the company and do its day to day decision making, like a CEO.\n\nThey can be independent business figures appointed by shareholders to have a say in the strategic direction of the company. They sign c...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
8tgqrt
how does repetition of failure lead to improvement?
Things such as skating or surfing where you can’t practice correctly until you’ve got it, you just keep trying and stacking it but somehow you improve by repetition. It sounds like insanity, making the same mistakes over and over again expecting different results - yet it works
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8tgqrt/eli5_how_does_repetition_of_failure_lead_to/
{ "a_id": [ "e17cbzs", "e17cg9s", "e17clr9", "e17qqzp" ], "score": [ 6, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "You learn what you shouldn't do. Everytime you fail you try to do somthing different until you succeed.", "You don't make the same mistake, you make a slightly different one. T...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
3ar9ui
why does my car continue to rool for a short time after i put it in park?(usually happens on a sloped surface)
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3ar9ui/eli5why_does_my_car_continue_to_rool_for_a_short/
{ "a_id": [ "csf7ob3" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "When you put the car in park, what you're doing is engaging a \"peg\" that fits into grooves on the transmission's output. When the peg fits into the grooves, the output can't turn, which means the wheels can't spin.\n\nWhen you step on the brake...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://auto.howstuffworks.com/automatic-transmission11.htm" ] ]
4bmv5l
why are there so many complaints about how formula 1 is run?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4bmv5l/eli5_why_are_there_so_many_complaints_about_how/
{ "a_id": [ "d1allpr", "d1asmjt" ], "score": [ 4, 2 ], "text": [ "F1 is supposed to be the highest level of motorsports: the fastest drivers in the fastest cars on the best tracks.\n\nIt is run by the FIA (who are the world motorsports governing body), but Bernie Ecclestone, who is the com...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1j0zpw
what regulations do banks have to follow that credit unions do not? why are credit unions not fdic insurance?
I am not stupid. I know the difference between banks and credit unions. I have belonged to both. I have looked at Wikipedia and looked on the internet. Yet I still do not under the basic regulations that differ between banks and credit unions, mainly why credit unions do not have to be insured through FDIC. I know t...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1j0zpw/eli5what_regulations_do_banks_have_to_follow_that/
{ "a_id": [ "cba0gee" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Credit unions are taxed as not-for-profit institutions and parlay some of the savings from the lower taxes into better rates for customers.\n\nBanks don't like this because they see it as unfair competition--I tend to agree, but opinions may vary...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
ubw98
this whole x86, x64, win32 thing...
A few months back I thought I understood the whole signifigance of the 'x86' 'x64' and win32 or win64 thing (sorry if any of these terms are off). Turns out, I still have no understanding. Can someone explain to me why I need to download certain types of programs instead of others depending on my OS type? (I'm runnin...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ubw98/eli5_this_whole_x86_x64_win32_thing/
{ "a_id": [ "c4u1iz0", "c4u1pi0", "c4u1zqj", "c4u4pah", "c4u5jxu" ], "score": [ 5, 18, 102, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Ok first of all x86 and x64 refer to different types of CPU. x86 are 32-bit CPUs and x64 are 64-bit CPU. Win32 refers to 32-bit windows and Win64 refers to...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
3x3rgb
why haven't black holes sucked up everything in the universe yet?
If the gravitational pull of black holes is so strong that nothing, not even light, can escape, and there are currently tons of black holes out there in the universe, how are we still here? I mean, as a black hole sucks in matter, wouldn't the remaining matter of the universe just diffuse to fill the empty space, so th...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3x3rgb/eli5why_havent_black_holes_sucked_up_everything/
{ "a_id": [ "cy17xmc", "cy1800d" ], "score": [ 2, 7 ], "text": [ "Because they cannot escape *if they are within a certain range.* Their gravity doesn't reach on endlessly. Also, just because something is in the gravitational pull, doesn't mean it will be sucked in. Our planet is in the gr...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
e8bejx
. how do you bring back a species from from near extinction?
Saw a post talking about the white Rhino only had 200 animals left but now there are so many more. But how is this done without serious inbreeding. Or is there something I'm missing? Edit: yes, I know how sexy time works.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/e8bejx/eli5_how_do_you_bring_back_a_species_from_from/
{ "a_id": [ "faaadk7", "fab2kch", "fab5zr5", "fab63f7", "fab98ce", "fab9ihf", "fabb4c4", "fabb5rr", "fabjkdi", "fabnu3u", "fabsilk", "fach3td", "fadea9j" ], "score": [ 5864, 123, 252, 21, 7, 107, 54, 4, 16, 30, 6, ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "https://www.aza.org/studbooks" ], [], [], [], [] ]
48rgpx
why do some coins get rejected in vending machines?
Sometimes a coin will work first time and with other coins you have to insert it a few times for the vending machine to accept it.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/48rgpx/eli5_why_do_some_coins_get_rejected_in_vending/
{ "a_id": [ "d0lw7s9", "d0lwdtn" ], "score": [ 19, 2 ], "text": [ "There can be a couple reasons, depending on how the machine identifies coins and what money's inside it. It might try to look at the coin's face and think it's not real (too damaged to look authentic, etc). It might try t...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
16tnh4
why won't most websites let you use spaces in usernames?
Thanks everyone for the answers really appreciate it!!!
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/16tnh4/eli5_why_wont_most_websites_let_you_use_spaces_in/
{ "a_id": [ "c7zaul6", "c7zb3l8", "c7zbhqh" ], "score": [ 6, 58, 38 ], "text": [ "It's generally a lot easier to parse/store/look-up usernames without spaces, because the spaces have to be treated specially. Some other characters (like $ or #) often also have to be treated speciall...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
4sr1kw
why is a fly swatter so much more effective than anything else?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4sr1kw/eli5_why_is_a_fly_swatter_so_much_more_effective/
{ "a_id": [ "d5bhf3p" ], "score": [ 9 ], "text": [ "The holes allow the air to flow through them. If it was flat, the air that builds up on the face would push the fly out of the way. At least that's how I understand it. " ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
a4i0tm
how to multiply very large integers in programming ?
When we multiply two large integers due to large result we cant do it in the normal way, so we use the 3rd grade multiplication algorithm to solve it, there are lot of tutorials which explains this concept doesnt explain how they implement(actually i can get the concept of taking each digit and multiplying with the the...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/a4i0tm/eli5_how_to_multiply_very_large_integers_in/
{ "a_id": [ "ebemm8k" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "The simplest solution is BigNum or LibGMP. These are libraries of all the routines you need to do these operations. \n\nEssentially, the \"numbers\" are stored as a structure, like a string. Then the algorithms go through the structures, digit...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
ac0c0c
how do developers of games and movies create directional audio so that you are able to tell if a sound is coming from in front of, or behind you when using a headset that just has a speaker in your left ear and a speaker in your right ear, and similarly with vertical sound?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ac0c0c/eli5_how_do_developers_of_games_and_movies_create/
{ "a_id": [ "ed4f4ss", "ed6btdi" ], "score": [ 7, 2 ], "text": [ "I work in the field, specifically on these kinds of systems. Wall of text incoming. \n\nThe most basic method is called panning. It usually as one knob controlling direction by altering the level of the signal in each channe...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
kwx4g
language - can someone explain aspect and tense, and the difference between them?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/kwx4g/eli5_language_can_someone_explain_aspect_and/
{ "a_id": [ "c2nxn1b", "c2nxn1b" ], "score": [ 7, 7 ], "text": [ "Generally, tense refers to the the relative position in time of an action.\n\nDoes this verb form refer to things that happenned before now? Its in the past tense. Things that will happen sometime in the future? The future t...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
sysrl
[big bang q] if the universe originated from a single point, why is it (and everything in it) not more symmetrically distributed?
Maybe this is a stupid question, but I would assume that with nothing to impede its outward motion, it wouldn't have any reason not to be a uniform formation...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/sysrl/eli5_big_bang_q_if_the_universe_originated_from_a/
{ "a_id": [ "c4i5eig", "c4i5fw9", "c4i7oog", "c4i926z" ], "score": [ 2, 14, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "There is clumping in some spots due to gravity, which forms a lot of the structures that we see like stars, planets, solar systems, galaxies, and clusters of galaxies. However, w...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://map.gsfc.nasa.gov/media/ContentMedia/990004b.jpg", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:WMAP_2008.png" ], [], [ "http://www.reddit.com/r/askscience/comments/flzut/i_have_some_questions_about_the_big_bang/" ], [] ]
2s6llz
why is australia so desolate when it is the same relative longitude as african and south american rain forests?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2s6llz/eli5_why_is_australia_so_desolate_when_it_is_the/
{ "a_id": [ "cnmmnxb", "cnmnb4r" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "It's really Papua New Guinea that's around the same longitude as the rain forests - that's why it has so many rain forests. That being said, there were a lot more rain forests in Australia than what's left in the northeast o...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://www.srl.caltech.edu/personnel/krubal/rainforest/Edit560s6/www/where.html" ], [] ]
4cz6a0
how do athletes play with broken bones and serious injuries?
I heard Michael Vick played with the same rib injury as my friend who was severe pain and couldnt breath right at night, our running back played on a broken leg and beasted that whole season, one guy broke his finger during practice and didnt tell anybody until the season ended so he didnt have to sit out. Also there w...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4cz6a0/eli5_how_do_athletes_play_with_broken_bones_and/
{ "a_id": [ "d1mhman", "d1mia06" ], "score": [ 5, 3 ], "text": [ "Adrenaline, painkillers, and a level of competetiveness the average person can't fully comprehend.", "I played a water polo tournament with a broken hand because my team manager refused to take me to the hospital (it was...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2t1gw8
how are women sexually stimulated by anal sex?
Why do some women truly enjoy Anal Sex, and others do it only for the SO (if at all)?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2t1gw8/eli5_how_are_women_sexually_stimulated_by_anal_sex/
{ "a_id": [ "cnutuld" ], "score": [ 6 ], "text": [ "Women have just as many sensitive nerves around the entry to anus as men, the only thing they do not have is a prostrate.\n\nAs far as why one enjoys it more then another ...is like asking why do you like Coke over Pepsi...it is just a preference...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anal_sex" ] ]
38qkyj
in the united states why do kids under the age of 18 still have to pay taxes when the country was almost built on the motto "no taxation without representation"
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/38qkyj/eli5_in_the_united_states_why_do_kids_under_the/
{ "a_id": [ "crx1y6h", "crx1z4b", "crx20ov", "crx255e", "crx43pa", "crx4cz8", "crx4w23", "crx9ahc", "crx9opq", "crx9wcn", "crxab1x", "crxbyhe", "crxc8q5", "crxcqqj", "crxdcdv", "crxef7i", "crxfi5v", "crxfs2o", "crxglj5", "crxgnff", "c...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
5ewtqa
why do we draw hearts as ❤ when real hearts look so different?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5ewtqa/eli5why_do_we_draw_hearts_as_when_real_hearts/
{ "a_id": [ "dafr6qq", "dafrsa5" ], "score": [ 2, 16 ], "text": [ "I have always read the heart represents a woman's butt when she is bent over at the hip, or what it looks like when her (I don't know how to explain this to a five year old) vulva is spread open.\n\nI, personally, like to b...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silphium#Connection_with_the_heart_symbol" ] ]
5ysefi
how can a plane fly upside down without the crew noticing?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5ysefi/eli5how_can_a_plane_fly_upside_down_without_the/
{ "a_id": [ "desk7ns", "desmq06", "desq0c1", "desqf18" ], "score": [ 21, 12, 13, 2 ], "text": [ "It's a condition called spatial disorientation, usually temporary and resulting from flight into poor weather conditions with low or no visibility. When affected, the pilot may ...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://www.japantoday.com/category/national/view/ana-pilots-unaware-for-20-seconds-that-plane-was-almost-turning-upside-down" ], [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graveyard_spiral", "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9pvG_ZSnCc" ], [] ]
dztrj0
is there more specialized treatment for certain viruses besides treating the symptoms
Recently I was admitted to the er because my sinus infection didn't get better after antibiotics, I had high fever, high blood pressure sweating, fear of loud and sudden noises. I was stabilized and given meloxicam. After reviewing my charts I'm sure I had meningitis but only confirmation is with a spinal tap and I hav...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dztrj0/eli5is_there_more_specialized_treatment_for/
{ "a_id": [ "f8a46qy", "f8a4ovs", "f8a5c7e", "f8allj3" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 2, 5 ], "text": [ "Depends on the virus. There some are treatments, but most are in the form of prevention instead of treating them after you get sick.\n\nThe prevention is in the form of vaccines.\n...
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[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
1og7mn
is drinking 3 3% alcohol beers in 3 hours the same as drinking 2 4.5% alcohol beers in the same time span?
Is drinking 4 3% alcohol beers in 3 hours the same as drinking 2 6% alcohol beers in the same time span?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1og7mn/eli5is_drinking_3_3_alcohol_beers_in_3_hours_the/
{ "a_id": [ "ccrnhd2", "ccrni37", "ccrnk7z", "ccrnz8p", "ccrogu8", "ccrqvy6" ], "score": [ 2, 3, 3, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Yes, all other things being equal. You'll pee a bit more perhaps. ", "In terms of alcohol content, yes.\n\nBut you'd feel more bloat...
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
dppq5x
how can we not listen to a song for years but as soon as it comes on the radio boom we still know every line?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dppq5x/eli5_how_can_we_not_listen_to_a_song_for_years/
{ "a_id": [ "f5xdyln" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Memory can be tied pretty closely to emotions, and music can be pretty emotional. I personally enjoy the beat of the music more than the words, so I can't remember most lines of the music I listen to unless I listen to the same stuff daily for aw...
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[]
[ [] ]
431d5s
why do iowa and new hampshire vote before everyone else? wouldn't it make sense to all vote at once?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/431d5s/eli5why_do_iowa_and_new_hampshire_vote_before/
{ "a_id": [ "czepciv", "czepmmw", "czetfff" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Each state gas to decide its primary election dates. These are not general elections. They serve to whittle the field down. This also allows large contributors to focus on fewer candidates before the ge...
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[]
[ [], [], [] ]
68iofo
why does such a small difference in the amount of co2 in the atmosphere make such a large impact on temperatures?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/68iofo/eli5_why_does_such_a_small_difference_in_the/
{ "a_id": [ "dgyrwk4", "dgyt7we" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Why do you think its a small increase in C02? there has been about a 40% increase in C02 PPM over the past 100 years and it shows no signs of slowing down. At this rate we will probably be at double the C02 in the atmosphere...
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[ [], [] ]
27gltd
why is an icebergs ice a pure source of "freshwater" when the ocean is full of salt?
I have been wondering this recently, Does salt not freeze? or does it seperate? Or were the oceans just not populated with salt long ago? Answer me...ANSWER MEEEE
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/27gltd/eli5_why_is_an_icebergs_ice_a_pure_source_of/
{ "a_id": [ "ci0mh32" ], "score": [ 12 ], "text": [ "Icebergs are not frozen ocean. Icebergs are created from snow that fell on land, was pressed down to make glaciers, which flowed down to the sea, where they started floating and broke off. " ] }
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[ [] ]
af37jc
if casinos are illegal, why are they bound by other laws?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/af37jc/eli5_if_casinos_are_illegal_why_are_they_bound_by/
{ "a_id": [ "edv2rvm" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "What makes you think gambling is illegal in the US? It is legal under Federal Law (hence why the Indian Reservations are clear since they are under Federal Law). Vegas and Atlantic City are just two dens of sin and vice." ] }
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[ [] ]
6irth4
how all of the gold in the world can fit in less than four olympic sized swimming pools?
I was reading [this](_URL_0_) article on Forbes that said all the world's gold could fit in less than four swimming pools. How is this possible? How could all those stacks of gold bars, gold jewelry, and other countless gold items in the history of humanity fit in such a relatively small space?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6irth4/eli5_how_all_of_the_gold_in_the_world_can_fit_in/
{ "a_id": [ "dj8l47s", "dj8l7it", "dj8mr74", "dj8ng13" ], "score": [ 4, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "I believe it is because the gold used in jewelry and coinage is alloyed with other metals to strengthen it, which makes for a lower percentage of gold.\n\nAlso, olympic-sized pools...
[]
[ "https://www.forbes.com/forbes/welcome/?toURL=https://www.forbes.com/sites/afontevecchia/2010/11/19/how-many-olympic-sized-swimming-pools-can-we-fill-with-billionaire-gold/&refURL=https://www.google.com/&referrer=https://www.google.com/" ]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
d6p894
i’d like to hear some simple explanations of the bible. i’d like to hear from history buffs or christians as well as people with other religions or none at all.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/d6p894/eli5_id_like_to_hear_some_simple_explanations_of/
{ "a_id": [ "f0uvls0" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "The Bible is a compilation of various books, letters, and texts created over a period of several hundred years. Some dating possibly as far back as the 8th century BC but most from a period of 500BC to 300BC and 0AD to 100AD.\n\nThe Old testament...
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[ [] ]
1o7c02
why can't a coup happen?
This is probably a bad question and I know I'm prone to paranoid episodes, but I'm looking at our nonfunctional United States congress and their 5% approval rating and I'm also looking at our relatively competent and organized defense apparatus that needs congress to be functional enough to keep writing them checks. R...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1o7c02/eli5_why_cant_a_coup_happen/
{ "a_id": [ "ccpjep0" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "There are so many reasons a military coup could never happen in the USA. First of which is US pride in its self for its democratic ideals! If a military leader tried to take power their troops certainly wouldn't obey them and others would activel...
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[]
[ [] ]
66cito
how did people talk to people on different continents back when we only had land lines?
I more or less understand why cell phones can work but I don't get how a land line could call people across oceans...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/66cito/eli5_how_did_people_talk_to_people_on_different/
{ "a_id": [ "dghdqgs", "dghdx5e" ], "score": [ 2, 7 ], "text": [ "We've had [landlines that go under the ocean](_URL_0_) since the telegraph was the only form of long distance communication. So they worked just like any other long distance call (though usually with much higher costs). ",...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transatlantic_telegraph_cable" ], [ "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f3/Atlantic_cable_Map.jpg" ] ]
8sxm0o
why can events occurring before the administration of general anesthesia be erased from memory?
For example, you wake up and no longer remember being wheeled to the OR, or talking to the surgeon before, etc. Why are these experiences erased from memory even though you were conscious during them?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8sxm0o/eli5_why_can_events_occurring_before_the/
{ "a_id": [ "e133zol", "e134ik6" ], "score": [ 10, 3 ], "text": [ "Your brain isn't like a recorder that instantly writes your experiences into a persistent format. It sorts, categorizes, prioritizes, and even edits your experiences as it makes memories. That takes a certain amount of time...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
j4x3x
what is 'liberalism' or 'being a liberal' in the us and why is it considered bad or a derogatory term by some?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/j4x3x/eli5_what_is_liberalism_or_being_a_liberal_in_the/
{ "a_id": [ "c2967qb", "c296xtq" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "If you were five I would tell you to compare politics to your school.\n\nLiberals would be the children who want the teacher to help them and their classmates with \"everything\"\n\nConservatives would be the children who wa...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
3kzkry
the australian pm switcheroo
So I see you Aussies are making a commotion down there; why was Tony Abbott bad and is the new guy better?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3kzkry/eli5_the_australian_pm_switcheroo/
{ "a_id": [ "cv1uw83" ], "score": [ 6 ], "text": [ "Tony abbot was probably one of the most corrupt politicians in control of a first world country. He actively sold Austrailias wellbeing and prosperity to the highest bitter (removed protections on the great barrier reef, dismantled public health ...
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[]
[ [] ]
8mykpj
what is the point of studying literature
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8mykpj/eli5_what_is_the_point_of_studying_literature/
{ "a_id": [ "dzrco6i", "dzrcxur" ], "score": [ 3, 3 ], "text": [ "By the same token, what would be the point in getting a degree in something like astrophysics?\n\nYou may not see the point because literature apparently doesn't interest you.\n\nBut are you trying to insinuate that every si...
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[ [], [] ]
1mdk8z
why is natural gas stored in round tanks?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1mdk8z/eli5_why_is_natural_gas_stored_in_round_tanks/
{ "a_id": [ "cc869bb" ], "score": [ 16 ], "text": [ "Because when you store a gas, it exerts a pressure. \n(or more truthfully has a pressure difference between it and the 'outside')\nA round storage container distributes this pressure equally over the surface area so it doesn't put more pressure ...
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[ [] ]
1ork52
linux users of reddit. why and how do you use linux?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1ork52/eli5_linux_users_of_reddit_why_and_how_do_you_use/
{ "a_id": [ "ccuv8nh", "ccuv8og", "ccuvgv9", "ccuvia7", "ccuvl34", "ccuvo8v", "ccuw657", "ccuw9rz", "ccuwa8y", "ccuwh2x", "ccuwkjc", "ccux9p3", "ccuxcff", "ccuy9wc", "ccuya98", "ccuybr8", "ccuym6k", "ccv0xa5", "ccv12oi", "ccv3i5q", "c...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://i.imgur.com/jqIcv.jpg" ], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
a1cws4
how does google maps get satellite photos without clouds in them?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/a1cws4/eli5_how_does_google_maps_get_satellite_photos/
{ "a_id": [ "eaopihn", "eaoy278" ], "score": [ 25, 3 ], "text": [ "1) Take many photos.\n\n2) Discard photos with clouds in them.\n\nProblem solved.", "1) they're not satellite photos. they're not taken by a satellite in orbit. rather they are aerial photos taken by an airplane\n\n2...
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[ [], [] ]
3z59vk
how/why do the ice cubes on the plane i'm on have hollow cylindrical shapes?
So I'm on a standard Boeing 737, can't remember if this was happening during any descent, when I notice that the ice cubes in my drink have a hollow cylindrical shape, even though they were solid moments before. What is it about them that upon melting, caused them to form hollow round ice cubes melting inside out inste...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3z59vk/eli5_howwhy_do_the_ice_cubes_on_the_plane_im_on/
{ "a_id": [ "cyjbomy", "cyjdy1v" ], "score": [ 7, 3 ], "text": [ "They're formed in an ice-making machine which has a freezing plate with fingers sticking out of it. They poke into the water, which freezes round them. When they're ejected they have that characteristic hole down the middle....
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[ [], [] ]
53jtqk
airline/car rental web reservations: they have the records, why ask for a confirmation number when cancelling/modifying?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/53jtqk/eli5_airlinecar_rental_web_reservations_they_have/
{ "a_id": [ "d7tp7j0" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "It's basically there to add an extra layer to prevent you (or somebody else) from accidentally making changes.\n\nSay you have two booking and you want to cancel one - but you accidentally click on the wrong one - asking you to give your confirma...
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[]
[ [] ]
2vykt1
why do many ceiling fans with speed settings go from useless to slightly faster but still useless to category 5 hurricane?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2vykt1/eli5_why_do_many_ceiling_fans_with_speed_settings/
{ "a_id": [ "com0v4q", "com1w81" ], "score": [ 5, 8 ], "text": [ "Ceiling fans are just there to provide a movement of air, in the winter bring the hot air near the ceiling to the lower levels. Obviously in the winter people don't like air moving on them.\n\nIn the summer, they like the in...
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[]
[ [], [] ]
a8tb50
why do your feet hurt worse when you sit down?
I’m on my feet all day (flat feet, cement floors) and when I get home my feet hurt like hell, but the second I sit down, they hurt even worse for a few mins. I’ve heard the same thing with other professions where ppl stand all day. Why would it hurt worse?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/a8tb50/eli5_why_do_your_feet_hurt_worse_when_you_sit_down/
{ "a_id": [ "ecdinqi" ], "score": [ 11 ], "text": [ "Pressure is off the soles of your feet when you sit down so blood flows freely, with a full supply of blood the nerves send their full allocation of signals reporting how battered they are." ] }
[]
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[ [] ]
2lwp2w
what happened in history to associate the jewish culture with controlling the media?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2lwp2w/eli5_what_happened_in_history_to_associate_the/
{ "a_id": [ "clyut2h", "clyv7z1", "clyz12v" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Jewish people were usually the wealthiest, which meant brightest and with the most influence = controlling the media. ", "Yet an Arab man actually does own a significant part of our media, including...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
35r75d
can humans eat leaves and lawn grass to get their fiber?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/35r75d/eli5_can_humans_eat_leaves_and_lawn_grass_to_get/
{ "a_id": [ "cr70ozy", "cr70yun" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "You already eat plenty of leaves, or at least you should. Lettuce, spinach, kale, collard greens, etc are all example of leaves that you eat.\n\nAs for grasses, you eat the seeds of them, wheat, oats, corn, rice. Humans lack...
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[]
[ [], [] ]
79o2k3
how is foreign investment raising housing prices in vancouver?
I heard that foreign, mostly Chinese, investors put a lot of their liquid cash into real estate in Vancouver, Canada for tax evasion reasons, but I don't know how this translates to higher real estate prices. If the investor is Canadian, would that also raise prices?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/79o2k3/eli5_how_is_foreign_investment_raising_housing/
{ "a_id": [ "dp3fdhx", "dp3k7pl" ], "score": [ 4, 8 ], "text": [ "It is really just a result of supply and demand. Supply of housing in most markets is fairly static. However, when more people come to the market to purchase homes, there is more demand to buy the fairly static supply of h...
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[]
[ [], [] ]
20zf6e
why are pests' immune response systems seemingly better than humans'? (full worded question in text)
Why is it plants, animals, pests and germs become more resistant, and ultimately immune to afflictions - man made or otherwise, but yet, the number of humans with allergies (cat/dog fur, nuts, asthma etc) seem to be on the rise - or is that merely a reflection of population growth and media fear mongering?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/20zf6e/eli5_why_are_pests_immune_response_systems/
{ "a_id": [ "cg85o7q", "cg87vsx" ], "score": [ 5, 2 ], "text": [ "They reproduce faster with shorter lives and therfore have a more rapid generational genetic change. Someone is going to explain this much better than I have though. ", "As far as I know, there are 2 main reasons why pes...
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[]
[ [], [] ]
53w45f
how does colin kaepernick kneeling during the national anthem help to draw attention to issues in america?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/53w45f/eli5_how_does_colin_kaepernick_kneeling_during/
{ "a_id": [ "d7wrhkh", "d7wru4m", "d7wrxka", "d7wsf3h" ], "score": [ 7, 3, 4, 10 ], "text": [ "Just by making this post you have drawn attention to issues in America, stemming from his actions. So I don't know what your confusion is. \n\nHe does something, people talk abou...
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
ap9m50
why do some tv adverts have out of sync audio
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ap9m50/eli5_why_do_some_tv_adverts_have_out_of_sync_audio/
{ "a_id": [ "eg6pho5" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Often because they were originally shot in another language (German ones are common on British TV) and have been dubbed on the cheap." ] }
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2866dt
what is going on inside the brain of a person with a speech problem? (stutter, stammer, etc)
I was born with or developed a speech problem when I was a child, I was wondering what exactly is going on inside my brain that causes this. I have a mild stammer / stutter but it was very bad when I was young and caused a lot of social issues and bully issues. Extra points: Is there a way to "rewire" the brain throug...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2866dt/eli5_what_is_going_on_inside_the_brain_of_a/
{ "a_id": [ "ci7utay", "ci7vn0j", "ci7w780", "ci7xfrs", "ci7xlpf", "ci7xp6j", "ci802y3", "ci809sy", "ci81be8", "ci83pku", "ci89is5" ], "score": [ 2, 6, 2, 2, 2, 26, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "It depends on the person....
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
3x832z
how are we able to use sophisticated telescopes such as hubble to view deep space, but not able to fixate on closer earth-like planets to search for civilization?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3x832z/eli5_how_are_we_able_to_use_sophisticated/
{ "a_id": [ "cy2aiis" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "Because Earthlike planets dont give off lots of light. Cant see something that isnt emitting light. \n\nBasically its way easier to see a star 1000 light years away than it is to see a planet even 1 light year away." ] }
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8ody52
the leveraged buyout of toys r us by private equity firma and resulting bankruptcy
Did the PE firms make money on this and if so how much and why?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8ody52/eli5_the_leveraged_buyout_of_toys_r_us_by_private/
{ "a_id": [ "e02pax9" ], "score": [ 9 ], "text": [ "No, the firms that bought Toys R Us did not make money from the deal.\n\nThey put $1.28 billion of their own money into the deal to buy the company in 2005. Since that time they have received ~$180 million in dividend equivalents. That means th...
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29lw7y
why do religious beliefs get special consideration under the law, but other beliefs don't?
If I strongly believe for non-religious reasons that wars are morally wrong, I'm still required to pay the taxes that fund our military - but someone who strongly believes that contraception is morally wrong for religious reasons can opt not to follow what would otherwise be a legal mandate? How does that work?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/29lw7y/eli5_why_do_religious_beliefs_get_special/
{ "a_id": [ "cim73gi", "cim7crc", "cim8utv", "cimetsy" ], "score": [ 6, 2, 3, 3 ], "text": [ "(1) Congress passed a law called the Religious Freedom Restoration Act giving religious beliefs enhanced protection. \n\n(2) The First Amendment specifically singles out religious...
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3waz4a
indian giver?
I've been used to saying the phrase, "Don't be an Indian giver!", since I was a child. Now that I'm older it seems a tad racist. Where did the phrase even come from?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3waz4a/eli5_indian_giver/
{ "a_id": [ "cxus3w4", "cxus4g2", "cxus4ny" ], "score": [ 7, 7, 3 ], "text": [ " > As observed and documented by Lewis and Clark in their journal, trading with Native Americans had a very unusual aspect - any trade, once consummated, was considered a fair trade. If on one day, the...
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[ [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_giver" ], [], [] ]
3uoodw
when you smell cigarette smoke from far away, are you necessarily inhaling second-hand smoke or is it just the "odor"?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3uoodw/eli5_when_you_smell_cigarette_smoke_from_far_away/
{ "a_id": [ "cxgk4it" ], "score": [ 14 ], "text": [ "You smell things by inhaling them. The odor of a thing is it vaporized. So, yeah, you're still inhaling second hand smoke." ] }
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6p3kn9
why do different fruits/vegetables accumulate different nutrients?
For instance: you plant kale, sweet potatoes and a watermelon vine in the same soil next to each other but the food produced will come out with different vitamins and minerals in them even though they grew in soil of the same composition. Why is this?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6p3kn9/eli5_why_do_different_fruitsvegetables_accumulate/
{ "a_id": [ "dkmc1w1" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "Different plant species (and species overall) have different needs ([their niche](_URL_0_)). Both a tree and a herb can be cultivated in your garden but by their very nature they'll have different needs for nutrients.\n\nIn the case of domesticat...
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[ [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ecological_niche" ] ]
7ranxg
how did humans found out, that they can create paper out of wood?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7ranxg/eli5_how_did_humans_found_out_that_they_can/
{ "a_id": [ "dsveukr", "dsvhjpq" ], "score": [ 2, 6 ], "text": [ "Paper way back when came from smaller plants. Papyrus was very popular in ancient Egypt. Hemp was used in China. Basically, once they figured out that plant pulp can be mashed into paper, there are a lot of sources one ca...
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j2q5a
can some explain the chemistry behind why some fats are good and some fats are bad to me li5?
I watch what I eat meticulously, but was not a science major in school. I eat what I do because individuals smarter than myself tell me its good. I've always been particularly confused about fats; i.e. monosaturated, monounsaturated, etc. Can someone explain to me why different kinds of nutritional fats have different ...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/j2q5a/can_some_explain_the_chemistry_behind_why_some/
{ "a_id": [ "c28ndo3", "c28o6lv" ], "score": [ 2, 4 ], "text": [ "Short version - Your body can't make the good ones.\n\nLong version - You may have heard the term \"omega-3\" fatty acid. This is scientific nomenclature. Fatty acids, and many other biomolecules, have their carbons labeled....
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[ [], [ "http://www.marksdailyapple.com/fats/" ] ]
4jvxoo
what exactly is neoclassical economics, and what are its prescriptions?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4jvxoo/eli5_what_exactly_is_neoclassical_economics_and/
{ "a_id": [ "d3a2uqj" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "I am no expert but since nobody has answered yet I'll have a try. So if others could verify or review that would be appreciated. Economics is hard especially when you start talking theories since a lot of theories are similar and economics is not...
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29a88e
where does the stereotypical pirate accent actually come from?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/29a88e/eli5_where_does_the_stereotypical_pirate_accent/
{ "a_id": [ "ciiy06r", "ciiy3gq", "ciiy4zg", "ciiy9xe", "ciiymko", "cij0kkw", "cij2qk8", "cij3byx", "cij3jfi", "cij3l5z", "cij4zp1", "cij5l9e", "cij5myz", "cij6exh", "cij6inx", "cij6n7m", "cij6obi", "cij6z9l", "cij81yd", "cij82y0", "c...
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://youtu.be/tcMJWZBzYjU" ], [], [], [ "http://beardcommunity.com/pirate/" ], [], [ "http://dialectblog.com/2011/05/24/pirate-accent/" ], [], [], [], [ "www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJH-4BNsVlc&sns=em" ], [], [], []...
be5mkf
how do scientists know if they`ve already discovered a certain star or planet?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/be5mkf/eli5how_do_scientists_know_if_theyve_already/
{ "a_id": [ "el37ro8", "el37ucf", "el3b2nv", "el3dj8v", "el3nspu" ], "score": [ 1307, 112, 36, 6, 3 ], "text": [ "They don't search by a name, they search by the coordinates of the star they are looking at.", "There are other parameters to search for. Distant st...
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[ [], [], [], [], [ "https://aladin.u-strasbg.fr/AladinLite/" ] ]
2lh89i
if i'm not attracted to old women now why will i be attracted to them when i'm an old man?
Why will I become physically attracted to old, saggy dustiness when I'm old, saggy and dusty?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2lh89i/eli5_if_im_not_attracted_to_old_women_now_why/
{ "a_id": [ "cluq6xl", "clurmwm", "clurwxq", "clux07m", "cluzbpr", "cluzja7", "clviad3" ], "score": [ 14, 5, 2, 14, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Nah, you will still slyly eye up the hottest lasses you eye up now. But, you will be tempered by the fact tha...
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[ [], [], [], [ "http://i.imgur.com/Ijgzwsk.png" ], [], [], [] ]
3uat5x
why do bridges from the 17 & 1800s seem to last longer than our bridges today?
I'm not sure if others noticed this or really care, but every time I go to a historical site I am constantly in wonder of why those stone bridges have lasted 300-200 years, yet some bridges today need to be repaired a lot and sometimes entirely replaced. Is it because of the architecture? The materials?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3uat5x/eli5why_do_bridges_from_the_17_1800s_seem_to_last/
{ "a_id": [ "cxdc8ls", "cxdcarp", "cxdcd1j", "cxdcvfm", "cxdf94r" ], "score": [ 3, 3, 3, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "A well designed stone structure can last for a really long time, just look at the pyramids.\n\nModern bridges take a whole lot more punishment than an old sto...
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[ [], [], [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammersmith_Bridge" ], [] ]
4a6aqb
how do they measure scoville units?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4a6aqb/eli5_how_do_they_measure_scoville_units/
{ "a_id": [ "d0xpe0a" ], "score": [ 6 ], "text": [ "I googled your question and this is from the 2nd result:\n\n > To perform the Scoville Organoleptic Test, an alcohol extract of capsaicin oil from a dried pepper is mixed with a solution of water and sugar to the point where a panel of taste-tes...
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6hctd7
why does one hammer with a hammer, chisel with a chisel but sweep with a broom?
Deep thinking I know. Interesting how some tool names reflect their usage while others don't. Some more, you level with a level and brush with a brush.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6hctd7/eli5_why_does_one_hammer_with_a_hammer_chisel/
{ "a_id": [ "dixh68h", "dixh9a7" ], "score": [ 10, 3 ], "text": [ "Hammers rarely hammer but they do tap, drive, pound, peen, beat, and a bunch of other stuff. \n\nChisels mostly carve, cut, plane, and gouge, among other things. \n\nBroom is a bush (invasive species in the west, Scotch/fr...
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1y1lrn
what would happen if someone drilled a deep hole into the earth and then connected it to the ocean?
Like in this xkcd comic: _URL_0_
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1y1lrn/eli5_what_would_happen_if_someone_drilled_a_deep/
{ "a_id": [ "cfgjed8", "cfgjerz", "cfgjo69", "cfgkd4v" ], "score": [ 3, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "How far into the earth to be exact?", "The hole would likely collapse, or if not it would fill with water... then collapse/fill with sediment. FYI, the Earth is not hollow.", ...
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[ "http://www.xkcd.com/1330/" ]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
4yqyvi
why are some people more sensitive to horror fiction than others?
I am completely frightened watching Stranger Things (I couldn't sleep for a few hours because of it) but my friends can easily watch horror movies and sleep soundly
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4yqyvi/eli5_why_are_some_people_more_sensitive_to_horror/
{ "a_id": [ "d6pth4o", "d6pv6me" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "The only simple answer to this is people are different. It's no different than some people find some jokes funny and others don't. Some people like vanilla and some like chocolate. ", "It has to do with the psychological...
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cy6mnf
how does tracing a phone call to a physical location work? i see it all the times in movies and wondered how realistic it is.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/cy6mnf/eli5_how_does_tracing_a_phone_call_to_a_physical/
{ "a_id": [ "eyq108y" ], "score": [ 6 ], "text": [ "Its called triangulation. Basically your cell is always sending signals to the various cell towers in the area, so they take the 3 closest towers to you and see how long it takes for a signal to go from the tower to your phone. By doing this, and...
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1xz5gr
why pewdiepie can use extracts from pop songs etc but other youtubers get copyright strikes if they do the same?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1xz5gr/eli5_why_pewdiepie_can_use_extracts_from_pop/
{ "a_id": [ "cffwtjv", "cffzrbe", "cffzyos", "cfg0rak", "cfg10mb" ], "score": [ 8, 3, 3, 24, 6 ], "text": [ "I'm pretty sure that youtube can't auto-claim copyrighted music if the clip is that short and the only way to have it claimed is if their company was to file...
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oqu9p
if nuclear engines are the zenith of submarine technology why aren't they used more in other applications.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/oqu9p/eli5_if_nuclear_engines_are_the_zenith_of/
{ "a_id": [ "c3jb474", "c3jb8n1", "c3jboyj", "c3jbri6", "c3jdr5y", "c3jfism" ], "score": [ 9, 2, 2, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Former 8-year navy nuke here (operated the reactor and engine room equipment on a submarine).\n\nFirst, it is an awesome, powerful, and ...
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[ [], [], [], [], [ "http://web.ead.anl.gov/uranium/guide/facts/" ], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuclear_aircraft" ] ]
3ua1p2
nsfw. how come sometimes ejaculation comes quickly and sometimes it takes forever while masturbating?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3ua1p2/eli5_nsfw_how_come_sometimes_ejaculation_comes/
{ "a_id": [ "cxd8jrk" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Some times it depends on the position. When standing or sitting, more blood flows down and into the tip of the penis, allowing it to achieve a climax faster. When lying down, it can sometimes be harder to reach an orgasm.\n\nOther times, it depen...
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anecjm
what are monoclonal antibodies and how do they work?
An immunologist at a dinner party brought these up as a potentially revolutionary treatment for a variety of conditions, but I didn't really understand the basics of what monoclonal antibodies are and how they work/why they change things.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/anecjm/eli5_what_are_monoclonal_antibodies_and_how_do/
{ "a_id": [ "efsodbj", "efsohjk" ], "score": [ 6, 4 ], "text": [ "Basically disease causing cells that cause infection and sickness have a marker on their surface (\"antigen\") that alerts everyone around it that it's bad. \n\nAntibodies are substances that are produced to detect these ant...
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[ [], [ "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/2d/Antibody.svg/255px-Antibody.svg.png" ] ]
npa2n
what is depth-of-field? how does it work?
Examples include "tilt-shift" photography (whatever that means), and the current fad of "narrow depth-of-field" video. I simply don't understand what's going on.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/npa2n/elif_what_is_depthoffield_how_does_it_work/
{ "a_id": [ "c3awfh3", "c3ayrvc", "c3awfh3", "c3ayrvc" ], "score": [ 4, 7, 4, 7 ], "text": [ "Tilt Shift lenses do not create any shallower depth of field than regular lenses, the term 'tilt-shift' photography is a misnomer, it is a misuse of the functions to create these e...
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[ [], [ "http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/ae/Jodhpur_rooftops.jpg/800px-Jodhpur_rooftops.jpg", "http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/cf/Jodhpur_tilt_shift.jpg/800px-Jodhpur_tilt_shift.jpg", "http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a0/Depth_of_field_dia...
f3cfvh
why are big teams of lawyers most likely to beat one very good lawyer?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/f3cfvh/eli5_why_are_big_teams_of_lawyers_most_likely_to/
{ "a_id": [ "fhhtdrs" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "They can dedicate more time and effort to working the ins and outs of the case. The team of lawyers who put in 1,000 combined hours of work will be more prepared for whatever variables happen in court than the one amazing lawyer who *only* put in...
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