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av1wyv
how exactly was enron capable of warping their financials and making investors believe they were doing better than they actually were?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/av1wyv/eli5_how_exactly_was_enron_capable_of_warping/
{ "a_id": [ "ehbz7aa", "ehc0rbf" ], "score": [ 5, 3 ], "text": [ "I highly recommend watching The Smartest Men in the Room. It’s a nearly two hour documentary that answers those exact questions. I believe that you can it for free here:\n\n_URL_0_", "Mainly by creating subsidiaries to h...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://watchdocumentaries.com/enron-the-smartest-guys-in-the-room/" ], [] ]
amv1qp
when you suck your stomach in, where does it go?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/amv1qp/eli5_when_you_suck_your_stomach_in_where_does_it/
{ "a_id": [ "efoqu9w", "eforwm9" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "How high are you? Lol (am also curious about this question) ", "Your abs tighten and force everything inside to squish together. When they can’t squish no more, they go up (like squeezing a bottle of water) and take up t...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
d19fpf
how did the water rise so high with the hurricane
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/d19fpf/eli5how_did_the_water_rise_so_high_with_the/
{ "a_id": [ "ezj9w08" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "the hurricane is also a low pressure system and the change in pressure combined with rainfall, winds and even the Earth's rotation can create a storm surge." ] }
[]
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[ [] ]
1g3x40
“i’m offended” vs. “it’s offensive”
There are people that find things offensive but are not offended. EG; South Park, Family Guy, Rap music, etc... Then you have those that are offended by things that are not necessarily offensive. EG: Celebrating religious activities, sexual preference, etc...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1g3x40/eli5_im_offended_vs_its_offensive/
{ "a_id": [ "caghwn5", "cagnc4n" ], "score": [ 5, 2 ], "text": [ "Different people are offended by different things, depending on their own experiences, culture, religious beliefs, etc.\n\nWhen a majority of people are offended by something (and deciding whether this is the case is not an ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1tdz1z
why i can't overdose on marijuana but can on heroin?
From what I understand its impossible to overdose from smoking marijuana. Heroin (or most other hard drugs) on the other hand is a textbook drug people OD on. Chemically speaking, why is this? What's going on in the brain and/or body to cause this?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1tdz1z/eli5_why_i_cant_overdose_on_marijuana_but_can_on/
{ "a_id": [ "ce6z4o3", "ce6z6jb" ], "score": [ 2, 3 ], "text": [ "You can overdose on THC if you start injecting it directly into your veins. The lethal dose of THC is so high, that you would sooner die of lung problems than of overdose. The lethal amount is basically the point where a vit...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
3e4vva
why do people get sick eating raw chicken, but not raw beef? would people still get sick from a chicken that was just killed and eaten right away?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3e4vva/eli5_why_do_people_get_sick_eating_raw_chicken/
{ "a_id": [ "ctbiow8" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Often commercialy grown chicken is crammed into barns with thousands at a time, walking in their own poop. The have wounds on their legs from prolonged poop exposure and are stressed out and peck each other so they get more injuries. Poop in the ...
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[]
[ [] ]
3shudk
the freedom of speech debate going on in america
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3shudk/eli5_the_freedom_of_speech_debate_going_on_in/
{ "a_id": [ "cwxcpop" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "There is no debate over \"freedom of speech\". That freedom is alive and well by virtue of all these idiots (on both sides of every issue) being able to say all this. It did not start at any particular time. The difference is today people ar...
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[]
[ [] ]
218bwf
elie5: if two twin brothers are disputing to see who is the father of a child, can science determine who of the two is the real one?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/218bwf/elie5_if_two_twin_brothers_are_disputing_to_see/
{ "a_id": [ "cgaku2v", "cgal5uy", "cgalmf1", "cganbmi", "cgat10t" ], "score": [ 20, 41, 3, 5, 3 ], "text": [ "It's a maybe. Over time the DNA of identical twins may become slightly different due to a phenomenon known as \"copy-number variation\"; bits of DNA may bec...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
7igm8s
why are computer monitors designed so that their heights are not ergonomically correct when placed on a standard work desk?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7igm8s/eli5_why_are_computer_monitors_designed_so_that/
{ "a_id": [ "dqyktr4", "dqylgqo" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "The 'ergonomically correct' height for a computer monitor is dependent on the individual user's eye level and the area they're placing the monitor in. So you'd need to design a support apparatus capable of variable height t...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1n78cd
why do i experience temporary blindness before insane headaches. where does the light information go?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1n78cd/eli5_why_do_i_experience_temporary_blindness/
{ "a_id": [ "ccfzt72" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "If you're experiencing blindness, go see a doctor, ASAP. Serious, irreversible injury could be occurring. You could be having an aneurysm, stroke, or a seizure. It might just be a migraine headache, but those are still worth talking to a doctor a...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
9rt9xu
why you have to switch your phone off when moving your number to another sim?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9rt9xu/eli5_why_you_have_to_switch_your_phone_off_when/
{ "a_id": [ "e8kbo6n" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Usually when the phone boots up, it does a fresh handshake with the towers. It just makes sure registration works properly and the card has the correct information attached to it and the carrier has everything it needs." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3cm53i
how come the general public seems to deem men being associated with female-oriented activities as more abnormal than women being associated with male-oriented activities?
For example, I see material such as [this] (_URL_0_) being showcased on the news, and yet I never really see news stories of women being involved in similar circumstances, such as them watching Transformers or G.I. Joe for example.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3cm53i/eli5_how_come_the_general_public_seems_to_deem/
{ "a_id": [ "cswu4rt", "cswula1" ], "score": [ 5, 5 ], "text": [ "Because, despite what some might claim, both men and women are oppressed, part and parcel, by the societal norms of their time. If a woman is not doing traditionally womanly things, she's thought of as weird -- mostly becaus...
[]
[ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sq3nQsMWROw" ]
[ [], [] ]
1e9dl8
milk turning sour.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1e9dl8/eli5_milk_turning_sour/
{ "a_id": [ "c9y1427", "c9y15o4" ], "score": [ 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Tiny organisms eat the milk and poop all in it. The sour smell and taste is tiny little turds.", "Basically, there's small amounts of bacteria that live in your milk. They feed off the sugar (lactose) in the milk. These ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
fpi8ni
why is saltwater so good at dislodging stuff?
I was prescribed a warm saltwater rinse in turn for brushing my teeth after wisdom teeth removal. Even after recovery, I got into the habit because it seems things are still getting stuck between teeth. I drink water all day but it doesn't seem to help like a warm saltwater rinse. Similarly, I clean my "tobacco" pipe w...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/fpi8ni/eli5_why_is_saltwater_so_good_at_dislodging_stuff/
{ "a_id": [ "flmkq8l", "fll2xz5", "fll4jcx" ], "score": [ 2, 6, 19 ], "text": [ "By the way gurgling salt water and treating with sage can (help) heal an aching tooth. Probably not recommended as a replacement of a visit to a dentist but will likely help.", "Salt breaks up into...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
8aqxv4
how does visible light fall within the electromagnetic spectrum? what do magnets have to do with light?
Update: Found [this video](_URL_4_), but this stuff is pretty complex and I still don't really understand it. From [here](_URL_1_), credit to u/agate_ : "The Maxwell equations provide a conceptual underpinning for all electric, optical and radio technologies, including power generation, electric motors, wireless com...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8aqxv4/eli5_how_does_visible_light_fall_within_the/
{ "a_id": [ "dx0sym7", "dx0y11d", "dx0yi79", "dx2b6ki", "dx2lm70" ], "score": [ 8, 4, 5, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Electromagnetic waves [are waves of both an electric and magnetic field](_URL_1_). Photons are the actors that carry this energy. \n\nElectromagnetic radiatio...
[]
[ "https://study.com/academy/lesson/vibrations-and-waves-wavelength-amplitude-period-frequency-speed.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maxwell%27s_equations", "https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/definition/electromagnetic-waves", "https://www.khanacademy.org/science/physics/light-waves/introduction-to-lig...
[ [ "https://proxy.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.spacekids.eu%2Fimages%2Feducation%2Fbb-rad.png&f=1", "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/35/Onde_electromagnetique.svg/400px-Onde_electromagnetique.svg.png" ], [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maxwell%27s_equations"...
2mrq5d
how dna from blood is changed when getting a bloodtransfusion
So I've been wondering about this for some time now. We all know that we got our own special DNA. And DNA is in the blood too, right? So when you've been in an accident or something, and must recieve blood, wouldn't another mans DNA be in that blood you recieve? And wouldn't those two DNAs then mix up? There might be...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2mrq5d/eli5_how_dna_from_blood_is_changed_when_getting_a/
{ "a_id": [ "cm6xvq5", "cm6y7ky" ], "score": [ 5, 3 ], "text": [ "The transfusion does contain the other person's DNA if it has white blood cells in it, but your body isn't really looking that closely at it. Your immune system looks for improper markers on the cells, ones that shouldn't be...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
7412i0
why do we tend to "like" negative news/information more than positive one?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7412i0/eli5_why_do_we_tend_to_like_negative/
{ "a_id": [ "dnuoei6", "dnutz8q", "dnuuc83", "dnv0p1l" ], "score": [ 12, 3, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Positive things happening are far more common, so people think they're boring. Once you've seen an airplane land, then you feel like you've seen a million. So a headline that says...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
37unyt
why do objects feel hotter the more you press against them?
Say there is a warm-hot object. When you just put your finger against it or just keep it on your hand, it feels warm. But, when you press against it with more force, it starts feeling warmer/hotter. Why is that? Thank you!
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/37unyt/eli5_why_do_objects_feel_hotter_the_more_you/
{ "a_id": [ "crpxt2v" ], "score": [ 6 ], "text": [ "What you feel as hot/cold is heat transferring from the object to you. When you press hard against an object, you're making it easier for heat to transfer, because you're pushing more skin against the object. More heat being transferred means a w...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
37fizc
how the fuck the akinator web genie works.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/37fizc/eli5_how_the_fuck_the_akinator_web_genie_works/
{ "a_id": [ "crm9bgc", "crmaam6" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "It uses a modified decision tree.\n\nBasically, every question can be answered with true or false. The combination of all those trues and falses gives a unique answer that is preprogrammed into the database.\n\nIf it fails, ...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://www.google.com/patents/US20060230008?dq=Artificial%20neural%20network%20guessing%20method%20and%20game", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Binary_search_algorithm" ] ]
505np0
why does salt that you buy in a store have a shelf life, when it essentially just rocks?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/505np0/eli5_why_does_salt_that_you_buy_in_a_store_have_a/
{ "a_id": [ "d71ccl3", "d71cekw", "d71e431" ], "score": [ 20, 6, 16 ], "text": [ "Most likely what actually has the shelf life in salt is the anti-caking agent that's present in the salt that you buy from the store.\n\nIt prevents the salt from forming into clumpy rocks.", "She...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
2xuj3f
how do food franchises choose locations? and how do decide where to expand to?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2xuj3f/eli5_how_do_food_franchises_choose_locations_and/
{ "a_id": [ "cp3i3fr" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "most brands expand close to their initial location and then expand to newer markets as finances allow for it or never. this is due to the strength of the brand recognition and taste preferences in the home market. \n\nwhen you expand to a new m...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
d5p785
how can vasectomies, at the same time, have a considerable chance of reverting itself and not be reliably reversible on purpose?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/d5p785/eli5_how_can_vasectomies_at_the_same_time_have_a/
{ "a_id": [ "f0n8s0k", "f0nip64", "f0nmy5b" ], "score": [ 12, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Well a quick google will show you the truth.\n\nA Vasectomy Reversal has a 97% success rate if its been less than 3 years, going down to as low as 71% after 15 years. Seems like we can pretty reliably...
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[]
[ [], [], [] ]
151tez
explain like i'm five: what does "folding" a dimension mean?
I recently watched a video called "Imagining The Tenth Dimension" on r/youtubephilosophy and it talked about "folding" a dimension in order to get to the next dimension. Could someone elaborate?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/151tez/explain_like_im_five_what_does_folding_a/
{ "a_id": [ "c7ihywb" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "I've seen that video too. it's not so much about actually \"folding\" dimensions, it's just an abstract demonstration to illustrate that there are 3 spacial dimensions, 3 time dimensions, and 3 (iirc) \"universe dimensions\"\n\nthat video is rea...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3ytbiy
why does rainwater on the ground evaporate when the sun does not heat it up to 100c
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3ytbiy/eli5_why_does_rainwater_on_the_ground_evaporate/
{ "a_id": [ "cygef80", "cygfhh0" ], "score": [ 5, 3 ], "text": [ "Water, in all its states, including solid and liquid, can go to another state if the temperature and pressure are favorable. A piece of ice can say to itself, \"Wow. The external temperature and pressure are favorable for me...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1g6wku
if dry friction does not depend on surface area, why do racing cars have wide tires?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1g6wku/eli5_if_dry_friction_does_not_depend_on_surface/
{ "a_id": [ "cahbrxs", "cahbs3z", "cahcde5", "cahdne0", "cahgn20", "cahjny8" ], "score": [ 136, 3, 2, 5, 9, 2 ], "text": [ " > If dry friction does not depend on surface area, why do racing cars have wide tires?\n\nYou are correct that static friction depend...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://www.splung.com/content/sid/2/page/friction", "http://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=56486" ], [], [], [], [ "http://i.imgur.com/sQGjkRb.gif" ] ]
16sjze
what is the difference between a metaphor and a simile?!
Seriously, I need this explaining like I'm 5. I have never been able to understand the difference!
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/16sjze/eli5_what_is_the_difference_between_a_metaphor/
{ "a_id": [ "c7yy52d", "c7yy5hz", "c7yy5wy", "c7yy8og", "c7yz4qx" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 6, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "a simile is a literal comparison, it typically uses \"like\" and \"as\". So saying that one thing is like some other thing is simile. A metaphor is more along...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [ "http://allpoetry.com/poem/8449735-Sonnet_130_My_mistress_eyes_are_nothing_like_the_sun...-by-William_Shakespeare" ] ]
8xqv0e
variable speed zones
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8xqv0e/eli5_variable_speed_zones/
{ "a_id": [ "e24x7nm" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "I can't speak for the specific logic behind your municipality's usage of variable speed zones and there are obviously downsides to this implementation, however the greatest possible benefit in a world where people obey speed limits is that if tra...
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[ [] ]
3a7oxu
why can't software developers, like microsoft, just put a straight end to malware?
In 2015, digital computers have been around for decades, how can developers still be making highly vulnerable software that needs anti-malware to stay healthy?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3a7oxu/eli5_why_cant_software_developers_like_microsoft/
{ "a_id": [ "csa192f", "csa1c7e", "csa1eu7", "csa2d89", "csa2h1t", "csa2wxn", "csapfqa" ], "score": [ 4, 3, 2, 3, 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Because there is nothing stopping a program from looking at what you type, what websites you visit and sending tha...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
wzihc
the controversy surrounding penn state and joe paterno
Why did they take his statue down? And what's going to happen with the school's fall football program?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/wzihc/eli5_the_controversy_surrounding_penn_state_and/
{ "a_id": [ "c5hu7vg" ], "score": [ 21 ], "text": [ "At best people were hoping that Joe Paterno was just a innocent bystander. The University commissioned an investigation (the Freeh Report) into the situation and they found that, in fact, he was not. He knew about the assaults and even though ...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/blog/eye-on-college-football/19632027" ] ]
3ipn5r
why do immigrants in the mediterranean always leave off the coast of libya? tunisia is much closer to europe.
Tragedy after tragedy occur in the Mediterranean sea with thousands of deaths this year alone. The common denominator seems to be that the boats always capsize/sink "off the coast of Libya". I know The current political situation in Libya makes it much easier to get to the coast however looking at a map, Tunisia seems ...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3ipn5r/eli5_why_do_immigrants_in_the_mediterranean/
{ "a_id": [ "cuihlc7" ], "score": [ 7 ], "text": [ "In brief: Tunesia has a coast guard, Libya is currently in chaos, there are basically no authorities there to prevent the human traffickers shipping hundreds of migrants to Europe." ] }
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[ [] ]
c2galm
- why and how does a plane dump fuel in emergency landing situations?
I understand that they need to be a lighter weight to land. How does the process of dumping fuel while airborne work? Edit: sorry my question was worded horribly. What happens with the fuel if it is dumped while airborne. If a plane is flying over a city and needs to dump fuel how does that work?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/c2galm/eli5_why_and_how_does_a_plane_dump_fuel_in/
{ "a_id": [ "erjucu5", "erjv68t", "erjvtcy", "erk6xor" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 11, 3 ], "text": [ "Opening the tank and letting it relase in the air.. it's also to cutdown on the fire risk.. if your crash landing your tanks should be basically empty..", "Crashing into the g...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
29mfz1
why does facebook insist upon directing me to "top stories"?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/29mfz1/eli5_why_does_facebook_insist_upon_directing_me/
{ "a_id": [ "cimcqcs", "cimdf6w", "cimf66t" ], "score": [ 5, 4, 2 ], "text": [ "those are paid advertisements", "You can change it.\n\nOn desktop just use the arrow next to News Feed on the left side and select 'most recent'. It should save the setting. \n\nOr on mobile \"more\...
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[]
[ [], [], [] ]
1rrzkg
the markov chain algorithm
It was mentioned in a post on /r/poetry. I read through the wiki article here: _URL_0_ but still dont understand it at all.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1rrzkg/eli5_the_markov_chain_algorithm/
{ "a_id": [ "cdq9u0e" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "The basic idea is one where you can think of some process as occurring as a sequence of \"steps\" in time, where each step only looks back at (at most) one previous step to determine where to go next. A classic example would be a random walk, whe...
[]
[ "http://www.reddit.com/r/Poetry/comments/1rrrrb/general_i_scraped_all_of_the_poems_in_this/" ]
[ [] ]
6a80k6
why do the oscars tend to favour more critically successful 'artistic' movies, whilst the grammy's favour more commercially successful 'mainstream' music?
They are both the biggest award ceremonies of their respective mediums- if they were reversed then The Avengers would have cleaned out the oscars, and a relatively unknown band would have done the same at the Grammy's. Wondering why this is.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6a80k6/eli5_why_do_the_oscars_tend_to_favour_more/
{ "a_id": [ "dhcixc0", "dhcj79y", "dhck660", "dhck8gt", "dhck9ah", "dhckh0v", "dhcl3zr", "dhcly8k", "dhcm7wm", "dhcm8wt", "dhcmjy3", "dhcn1s4", "dhcnb6u", "dhcoxus", "dhcpbd4", "dhcpfyz", "dhcq8fx", "dhcr1ls", "dhcre79", "dhcrg1h", "d...
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[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhfxo8xPNGU" ], [], [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grammy_Award#2012_category_restructuring", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oscar_season", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gladiator_(2000_film)" ], [], [], []...
426hpv
why do we get tax returns, why can't it just be calculated automatically when paid?
I am British, immigrated to America, and I work. I am delighted every year when I figure out that I get a nice tax return. I don't have much in terms of deductions, I am married, and that is about it. In the UK, I never got a tax return, infact, it is mostly automated if your are paid by PAYE. Can someone explain to ...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/426hpv/eli5_why_do_we_get_tax_returns_why_cant_it_just/
{ "a_id": [ "cz7y4fu", "cz7yef0", "cz7yo4a", "cz7z74g", "cz7zd2s", "cz809nb", "cz81n4e", "cz82nnd", "cz845mm", "cz84io9", "cz86ai9", "cz86pop", "cz8ay5m", "cz8b3gr", "cz8dy1f", "cz8e4xq", "cz8h0g2", "cz8izay", "cz8loin", "cz8n9zj", "c...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://www.propublica.org/article/how-the-maker-of-turbotax-fought-free-simple-tax-filing" ], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
5qn6js
what is the clicking/knocking/banging noise some heaters make?
I mean hot water baseboard heaters, specifically small short ones you might find in a bedroom low on the wall which have thin pieces of metal on top of what I suspect is a water pipe
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5qn6js/eli5_what_is_the_clickingknockingbanging_noise/
{ "a_id": [ "dd0k36s", "dd0n7fp", "dd0o1na" ], "score": [ 8, 8, 2 ], "text": [ "Hot water baseboards have pipes throughout your house. As the water moves through them you can hear a lot of creaking and cracking that's the sound of the pipes moving slightly and rubbing against the w...
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[ [], [], [] ]
3x5nq0
could coca-cola make a decarbonated coke?
Don't kill me, but I have always preferred Coke decarbonated. I drink it for the taste and to sate my thirst, not the fizziness. Since Coke has so many different variants, Coca-Cola will surely have come up with the idea to make a decarbonated variant as well, but they haven't. Why?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3x5nq0/eli5_could_cocacola_make_a_decarbonated_coke/
{ "a_id": [ "cy1ql29" ], "score": [ 6 ], "text": [ "I think you mean uncarbonated. It's not like they'd put the carbon dioxide in especially and then take it right back out.\n\nSo yes, they could easily make it by just mixing all the other ingredients and not carbonating it. Nothing about coke, or...
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[ [ "http://www.amazon.com/Baar-9654-Cola-Syrup-oz/dp/B000M36L9E" ] ]
2qt0mr
in the wintertime, why don't they de-ice the planes before letting people board so passengers don't have to sit and get delayed by 15 minutes or more?
Like a lot of people, I did some traveling over Christmas with my wife back to my hometown. This happened to us last year as well as this year and it has always confused me as to why this is. Say for example it's a cold morning and looking at the flight board things seem to be fine, things say ON TIME and it looks like...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2qt0mr/eli5in_the_wintertime_why_dont_they_deice_the/
{ "a_id": [ "cn982dq", "cn9844v", "cn987n4", "cn98kni", "cn98lid", "cn99vti" ], "score": [ 4, 2, 3, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "in the time between stopping the de-icing and all the passengers sitting down and ready to take off the ice will be back again ", "M...
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[ [], [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arrow_Air_Flight_1285" ], [], [], [] ]
2pehsp
why do people who benefit the most from tax breaks (married couples, people with kids, the elderly, etc) get taxed much less while single people in the "middle class" are stuck paying "more"?
I am a 29 year old, single white male who owns his own house with no kids. Basically I have wondered for a while now why I get stuck paying for all the programs and services that I am not able or unwilling to participate in (I dont want kids so dont plan on using any public schools or programs in the area, etc) Why d...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2pehsp/eli5_why_do_people_who_benefit_the_most_from_tax/
{ "a_id": [ "cmvx7bi", "cmvxd3d", "cmvxf0t", "cmvxg24", "cmw0j51", "cmw29vc" ], "score": [ 10, 7, 7, 5, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "The simplest answer is that taxation is not a menu, but a buffet. Everyone pays in according to what the people controlling it says tha...
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
2ds036
why do i get excited watching movies (that i own on dvd) when they air on tv?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2ds036/eli5_why_do_i_get_excited_watching_movies_that_i/
{ "a_id": [ "cjsmfw5" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "I'd say it's to do with decision making. We are less committed to watching stuff playing on linear tv. But a DVD or even pressing play on the PVR is a conscious decision to watch something, a decision you made entirely on your own. It means you'v...
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[ [] ]
1sact2
why did china cover up the pyramids with dirt, grass and trees?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1sact2/eli5why_did_china_cover_up_the_pyramids_with_dirt/
{ "a_id": [ "cdvkt5t" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "weren't they trying to keep from happening what DID happen in egypt....grave robbing?" ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
qgdoh
what are newsgroups and how do they work?
I understand there is a 'fightclub' type of attitude when it comes to newsgroups but I'd appreciate the help. What exactly are they?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/qgdoh/eli5_what_are_newsgroups_and_how_do_they_work/
{ "a_id": [ "c3xed1p", "c3xmbwg" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Newgroups are like reddit self posts, in some ways. Anyone can write them if they have access to a server that carries them, and they're not necessarily under a real name. They're also grouped by subject, like subreddits. Th...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
25wbik
cards against humanity
I am aware it is a card game, but what is so appealing about it? From what I've seen, it just looks like an assorted set of sentences with blank spaces in which you use other cards to fill in those spaces. I'm not grasping the concept of how someone "plays" a game like _URL_0_ seems like an adult version of ad libbing....
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/25wbik/eli5_cards_against_humanity/
{ "a_id": [ "chlbz7i", "chlcx00", "chlcxsy", "chldg7g", "chldnds" ], "score": [ 4, 3, 2, 2, 3 ], "text": [ " > It seems like an adult version of ad libbing.\n\nYeah, that's fairly accurate. The point is the combination of unusual topics and adult humor is usually v...
[]
[ "this.It" ]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
47e4u9
why does it matter that congress has a low approval rate? are people supposed to approve of congressmen and women that aren't from their state?
For example, say I live in Wisconsin. I'd want my senators and reps to do what makes Wisconsin better, even at the loss of other states (it's a dog eat dog world). So in my example, why should it matter what I think of the other 98 senators and the 430-ish reps that aren't from Wisconsin? And why should they care about...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/47e4u9/eli5_why_does_it_matter_that_congress_has_a_low/
{ "a_id": [ "d0c9fd9" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "You are exactly right and that is generally why the overall approval rating is so low. \n\nCurrently congress has a 14% approval rating, but not a single congressman has an individual approval rating anywhere close to 14%. " ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2tg31z
why are human babies so much louder and attention grabbing compared to other animals? you would think it would be a bad survival trait for the young of any species to have.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2tg31z/eli5why_are_human_babies_so_much_louder_and/
{ "a_id": [ "cnyq4qa", "cnyqcns", "cnyr3t9", "cnyw5hp" ], "score": [ 6, 2, 7, 2 ], "text": [ "Human babies are much more dependent on their parents than animal babies. Humans have a relatively larger cranium than animals (due to our higher intellect), so we are born in a mu...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coot", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Altricial", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Precocial" ] ]
c42cz2
how does communicating to rovers all the way in another planet work and how can we control it from so far away?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/c42cz2/eli5_how_does_communicating_to_rovers_all_the_way/
{ "a_id": [ "erul3p1", "erulz0i" ], "score": [ 3, 3 ], "text": [ "The rovers have really sensitive antennas that need to be pointed straight at Earth. They can also communicate with the satellites in orbit around Mars. Back on Earth, we use really bigass radio telescopes to receive the wea...
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[]
[ [], [] ]
3d83s1
why are there so many failing republicans running for president?
I'm neither Left or Right, I'm moderate. I don't vote party so how does Scott Walker, Bobby Jindal, The Jersey Don or even the Donald think they're qualified to be President? Their states are the lowest performing economies in the country. Louisiana? Seriously?! That's a blueprint we need... Donald can't even cont...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3d83s1/eli5why_are_there_so_many_failing_republicans/
{ "a_id": [ "ct2o2zo" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "Sarah Palin charges $100,000 for a public appearance.\n\nFame is a huge reward in America. It opens doors. Presidential hopefuls experience super-high local re-election rates (that famous senator really makes our district seem important in Washin...
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[]
[ [] ]
710ytb
why is two minutes recommended for the appropriate amount of time to brush your teeth? and what happens overnight to your teeth if you don't brush before sleeping?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/710ytb/eli5_why_is_two_minutes_recommended_for_the/
{ "a_id": [ "dn7qzgu" ], "score": [ 20 ], "text": [ "First question answered by /u/AptCasaNova in another [thread](_URL_0_).\n\n\n > Brushing for 2 minutes means you are likely to not brush as hard, since you have more time and will concentrate on where you're brushing. You're more likely to get ...
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[]
[ [ "https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2o89g2/eli5_why_i_have_to_brush_my_teeth_for_2_minutes/?st=j7rorhil&sh=2d1d12ae", "https://greatist.com/live/brushing-teeth-before-bed" ] ]
3wmj7b
does every generation feel like they are in a time of rapid change? if so, was the 20th century a genuine example of rapid change or am i just too close to it to see it's part of the gradual trend?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3wmj7b/eli5_does_every_generation_feel_like_they_are_in/
{ "a_id": [ "cxxbrqr", "cxxbt7d" ], "score": [ 6, 3 ], "text": [ "1900-2000 had so much industry and manufacturing advancements the 1900s are hardly recognizable anymore. \n\n2000-2015 may have only been 15 years, but the technology has advanced incredibly fast already. \n\nThe future is h...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2beaan
i can lift a plank from the middle and it's easy, but why when i try from the edge it feels heavier?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2beaan/eli5i_can_lift_a_plank_from_the_middle_and_its/
{ "a_id": [ "cj4gc8g", "cj4gf2x", "cj4jis7" ], "score": [ 12, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "When you lift something that is balanced, the force is pretty much straight down, which is typically easier for you to hold or lift. \n\nWhen you pick something up from a spot that is further away fro...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
xxn3v
why i can't use my netflix account in australia
Ive just moved to Australia from the states and one of the things I thought would help stave off homesickness would be access to my Netflix account. But when I tried to log in it told me Netflix hasn't reaches Oz yet. It's on the internet, why should my location matter?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/xxn3v/eli5_why_i_cant_use_my_netflix_account_in/
{ "a_id": [ "c5qhdol", "c5qhe6r", "c5qhl1e", "c5qiilx" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "There are laws in place that allow content companies such as Universal or Warner Bros. or Fox, etc, to licence out their content. Many of these companies licence to partners based ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
2j091a
what's in it for the federal government to have marijuana criminalized?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2j091a/eli5_whats_in_it_for_the_federal_government_to/
{ "a_id": [ "cl752w0", "cl75387", "cl756wl", "cl75aqq" ], "score": [ 2, 8, 2, 5 ], "text": [ "Originally it was a group of very wealthy men who earned their money from paper and paper products that really didn't want hemp to be legal. ", "Well, there are quite a few gov...
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[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
1lbvs7
- enron, and their scandal
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1lbvs7/eli5_enron_and_their_scandal/
{ "a_id": [ "cbxoszq", "cbxp15k", "cbxuwvr", "cbxviho" ], "score": [ 2, 62, 3, 3 ], "text": [ "They lied about how much money they had to make their business look more stable and attractive for investors.", "If you realy want to know, go watch the documentary \"The smar...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
1cswdv
is the solar system really disk like (all stuff circling the sun at the same angle, like saturn's rings), like it is in all the pictures of it? and if it is, why is it like that? what causes all the planets, and asteroids to be at the same angle, and not orbiting at random angles?
Sorry if this isn't very intelligible, I had a hard time putting it into words.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1cswdv/eli5_is_the_solar_system_really_disk_like_all/
{ "a_id": [ "c9jo1wj", "c9jq23b" ], "score": [ 19, 2 ], "text": [ "The solar system is mostly \"flat\", although some planets orbit at slightly different angles.\n\nThe reason is that the planets in our solar system accreted from the same rotating disk of dust that was on a single plane (...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Accretion_(astrophysics)", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nebular_theory" ] ]
8r1f7a
why can we easily walk for hours on end, but struggle when running just for a few minutes?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8r1f7a/eli5_why_can_we_easily_walk_for_hours_on_end_but/
{ "a_id": [ "e0nn6bk", "e0nngv7", "e0nnu84", "e0no4mh", "e0nocsm", "e0nor30", "e0notar", "e0nqu8j", "e0nr8s5", "e0ns18n", "e0nsf7a", "e0nteem", "e0ntwog", "e0nv79j", "e0nw7hd", "e0nwa6u", "e0o2gfj", "e0o2of5", "e0o6537", "e0o6xx5", "e...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rar%C3%A1muri#Athletic_skills" ] ]
k6al5
the dyson "air multiplier"
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/k6al5/eli5_the_dyson_air_multiplier/
{ "a_id": [ "c2htwb3", "c2hwfco", "c2htwb3", "c2hwfco" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "There is a fan in the bottom.", "Air \"sticks\" to itself so when you set some air moving (by breathing out, for example), the initial bit of air that you move \"drags\" some a...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
2qme3l
why did black widows evolve to have such deadly venom?
I don't understand why a tiny spider would have to be able to kill a full grown adult. Couldn't they have less toxic venom and still be able to successfully kill its prey/defend itself?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2qme3l/eli5_why_did_black_widows_evolve_to_have_such/
{ "a_id": [ "cn7eke5", "cn7k3ax" ], "score": [ 10, 2 ], "text": [ "There is no why in evolution. It just so happens that black widows that were able to kill nearly any predator were better at surviving, so their descendants are as well.", "1: there is no why, it's evolution. It happene...
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[]
[ [], [] ]
2q2eq3
why aren't american houses built with concrete?
I heard China builds almost all its buildings out of concrete, even in areas where it can get cold. Why are American houses built with easy-to-assemble plaster/drywall? Why aren't houses in hurricane-prone zones (e.g Florida) given a stronger foundation?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2q2eq3/eli5_why_arent_american_houses_built_with_concrete/
{ "a_id": [ "cn26lz6", "cn26sqw", "cn27nhj", "cn29ci4", "cn2d5f8", "cn2skqi" ], "score": [ 2, 132, 6, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Wood (in the US) is cheap to produce, move and build with. Note that most buildings in the US of more than 2 storeys are built of cide...
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[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
ouo9n
el5 - if methane based life lives on the moon titan how likely are we to be able to discover it with our current level of tech and national space budgets? also how complex would it be realistically?
I tried to ask "asksciene" and "askreddit" but they ignored me, maybe because this is a stupid question, so please treat me like i'm five and answer anyways :) cheers
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ouo9n/el5_if_methane_based_life_lives_on_the_moon_titan/
{ "a_id": [ "c3k6oik" ], "score": [ 9 ], "text": [ "If life exists on Titan (in bacterial form) we would likely find it quickly if we ever sent a rover like we did to Mars. It is unlikely anything big could develop there without our knowledge based on our current understanding of biology. \n\nSimp...
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[ [] ]
1owwrr
what is the difference between spanish spoken in latin america as opposed to spain?
I understand there's a distinct language spoken in parts of Spain called Catalan but I'm curious about Spanish itself. Also, if you were visiting Spain, would Spanish or Catalan be more useful to study?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1owwrr/eli5_what_is_the_difference_between_spanish/
{ "a_id": [ "ccwfiew", "ccwftyg", "ccwhf43", "ccwo2g3" ], "score": [ 4, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Catalan is a regional language. Nearly everyone in Spain can speak Spanish (it's what the schools have long used) , but Catalan will only be known in the northeast. And outside of...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voiceless_velar_fricative" ] ]
2mhy44
why is it that people have a hard time getting out of stressful situations in dreams (including doing simple things like dialing 911, running away, etc.)?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2mhy44/eli5_why_is_it_that_people_have_a_hard_time/
{ "a_id": [ "cm4g8mb", "cm4gpb9", "cm4i5yu", "cm4n39l", "cm4uv70" ], "score": [ 10, 7, 4, 22, 2 ], "text": [ "It may be that the dreams that stick with you in waking memory are the ones that you could not resolve in the dream.\n\nI would imagine there are countless ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grEypMDqvTE" ], [] ]
9uun6v
how do youtube to mp3/mp4 converters work?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9uun6v/eli5_how_do_youtube_to_mp3mp4_converters_work/
{ "a_id": [ "e97ewwl" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "The video/audio data has to get sent to the user somehow. Even if it’s not obvious for the average user, people familiar with the technical details of the internet and sending data know how to intercept the video stream.\n\nIn many cases it’s as ...
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[]
[ [] ]
2m25c2
why and how do planets, stars, comets, meteorites move in space?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2m25c2/eli5_why_and_how_do_planets_stars_comets/
{ "a_id": [ "cm090kn", "cm094ia" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "the initial motion/energy comes from the big bang and the path is then governed by the laws of gravity", "The gravity exerted on them by the Sun provides a constant pull that keeps them in motion.\n\nEdit: The slow drift...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
260r56
how bridges work.
I've searched, and found little bits here and there, and I know its a very general question considering the different types of bridges. But I need to explain this to some 5 - 8year olds and I'm having a hard time putting what little I understand in to sensible words. So if you could please do a TL;DR in ELI5 style for...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/260r56/eli5how_bridges_work/
{ "a_id": [ "chmme1z", "chmou8m" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "You can span one rope over a valley or river and use that to span more ropes over it. You do not need wooden planks between the ropes for a hanging bridge but they help. The horizontal rope will hang down in the middle. It m...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://www.google.de/search?q=roman+aqueduct" ], [] ]
5cl7b7
whatvis happening when your phone freezes or glitches out?
* what is
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5cl7b7/eli5_whatvis_happening_when_your_phone_freezes_or/
{ "a_id": [ "d9xf1e5", "d9xhgp4", "d9xkzzz" ], "score": [ 11, 16, 3 ], "text": [ "The application has entered a state where it is trying to do something that it can't ever achieve, such as waiting on an event that will never occur. It stops everything and if you are lucky will indi...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
1df6ux
why do the voices of black people and the voices of white people sound different?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1df6ux/eli5_why_do_the_voices_of_black_people_and_the/
{ "a_id": [ "c9q1s06", "c9q7c5f", "c9q8ddr", "c9ppb2b", "c9pq8bp", "c9pql32", "c9pr7i9", "c9pr9fq", "c9prbsw", "c9prh58", "c9pse87", "c9psvqz" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2, 3, 44, 20, 3, 5, 8, 3, 151, 12 ], "text": [ ...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://elimeirkaplan.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/EMK_audie_cornish_0021.jpg" ], [], [], [ "http://rationalwiki.org/wiki/Toupee_fallacy" ], [ "http://io9.com/5928125/do-people-of-different-races-have-different-voices", "http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17342877", "http://...
orqwt
why is air dryer in the winter and wetter in the summer?
I notice when my brown sugar clumps up in the winter
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/orqwt/why_is_air_dryer_in_the_winter_and_wetter_in_the/
{ "a_id": [ "c3jikjj", "c3jjzmd" ], "score": [ 2, 3 ], "text": [ "in the winter time the air is colder, so the moisture that would normally be in the air is crystallized and frozen, making it too heavy to float", "Warm air can hold moisture more easily than cold air. When warm air that...
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[]
[ [], [] ]
6xxn2y
with everyone having a cell phone and constantly texting, why aren't we able to text 9-1-1 operators? in life threatening situations, you may not be able to actually speak on the phone.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6xxn2y/eli5_with_everyone_having_a_cell_phone_and/
{ "a_id": [ "dmj7kx5", "dmjbu1d" ], "score": [ 8, 2 ], "text": [ "Yo ho ho! Yer not alone in askin', and kind strangers have explained that it's being implemented now:\n\n1. [Can you text 911? ](_URL_0_)\n1. [Does texting 911 work the same way as calling? ](_URL_3_)\n1. [ELI5: Who doesn't ...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://www.reddit.com/r/NoStupidQuestions/comments/648dmn/can_you_text_911/", "https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3ok1p6/eli5_why_isnt_texting_911_a_thing_yet_are_there/", "https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5oya18/eli5_whats_the_hold_up_with_the_ability_for/", ...
38bgro
- how do points work on reddit?
I don't understand how points work here... (hoping I don't get flamed for this!)
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/38bgro/eli5_how_do_points_work_on_reddit/
{ "a_id": [ "crtsd7s", "crtsekb" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "If a link you upload is voted positively (given an \"upvote\"), your karma -- the number by your name in the top-right account settings area -- will increase by 1 for every upvote.\n\nFor every time a link you upload is vote...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
8hu2r2
how are phase diagrams interpreted?
I recently saw a phase diagram in a geography book about some minerals' pressure at certain temperatures, but I didn't really understand it, so here I am. I got the notion that the areas formed between the intercepts and the function itself were each minerals' pressure-temperature relation, but nothing else (and I'm no...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8hu2r2/eli5_how_are_phase_diagrams_interpreted/
{ "a_id": [ "dymkv9g", "dzaeihf" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Well, look at [this diagram for water](_URL_0_) for example.\n\nIgnore all the latin numbers, those are just denoting different types of ice crystals.\n\nThe Y axis denotes pressure. The X axis denotes temperature.\n\nFor an...
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[]
[ [ "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/08/Phase_diagram_of_water.svg/700px-Phase_diagram_of_water.svg.png" ], [ "https://i.imgur.com/dw1d1xe.jpg" ] ]
5jlzmf
if the continents are always moving really slightly, will they ever "reconnect"?
To form another "Pangea"?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5jlzmf/eli5_if_the_continents_are_always_moving_really/
{ "a_id": [ "dbh6cm7", "dbh8jha" ], "score": [ 14, 2 ], "text": [ "Yep, the current concept of how it would turn out is called Pangea Ultima: _URL_0_\n\nThe supercontinent may look a bit different when it finally happens, but plate tectonics are fairly stable things so we can guess pretty ...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pangaea_Ultima" ], [] ]
4u0s2c
how do smartphone know what programs are responsible for using the battery ?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4u0s2c/eli5_how_do_smartphone_know_what_programs_are/
{ "a_id": [ "d5lww9x", "d5lxx7f" ], "score": [ 3, 6 ], "text": [ "I don't think it's a 100% exact science but close enough to be useful. It's not the program itself that uses battery. The actual hardware inside the phone is what uses the battery, for example the processor and the screen an...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
5svkdm
what is going on with elizabeth warren right now?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5svkdm/eli5_what_is_going_on_with_elizabeth_warren_right/
{ "a_id": [ "ddi4yay" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "It is against the decorum and rules of the senate to impute another senator on the Senate floor. Essentially, you can't use the Senate floor to question the conduct of another Senator. There are other ethics committees and places where such matte...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
5odt84
why haven't we switched to led traffic lights and street lights?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5odt84/eli5_why_havent_we_switched_to_led_traffic_lights/
{ "a_id": [ "dcijbte" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "Cost. In my area, when a traffic signal burns out the replacement is LED. It's a lot of labor cost to go to all the non-burned-out ones and change them." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
68rlle
why was japan so successful at implementing the meji restoration?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/68rlle/eli5_why_was_japan_so_successful_at_implementing/
{ "a_id": [ "dh0ro3u", "dh0vsgm" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "It is said that the best way to unify feuding people is to present them with a common threat. The Japanese discovered that the world had advanced greatly in the 250 years that their borders were sealed, and their allegedly p...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
6chanf
how do chomsky's grammar trees and generative grammar "work"?
I’ve been looking into it but I don’t understand a single thing.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6chanf/eli5_how_do_chomskys_grammar_trees_and_generative/
{ "a_id": [ "dhuqero" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Starts out with the question \"What does it mean to *know a language*?\" (It can't mean \"knowing all the words\"; I know English but I still sometimes run across words I don't know.) One answer is \"knowing-a-language equals knowing-whether-a-...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
nxaov
this gif gives me a feel of sound. why is that?
Why is it that [this](_URL_1_) gif (just posted in /r/pics) gives you that thumping sound like you were actually hearing it? Edit: [SOLVED!](_URL_0_)
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/nxaov/this_gif_gives_me_a_feel_of_sound_why_is_that/
{ "a_id": [ "c3co6dp", "c3co6dp" ], "score": [ 3, 3 ], "text": [ "It's a form of an \"ear/sound 'optical' illusion\". When you see the image shaking, combined with the tower moving up and down, your eyes make your brain think that it is making a sound. However, your ears are not hearing th...
[]
[ "http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/nxaov/this_gif_gives_me_a_feel_of_sound_why_is_that/c3co6je", "http://i.imgur.com/7uRSo.gif" ]
[ [], [] ]
43hzz3
what is the 'return' statement in python?
Why use 'return' instead of another command like 'print'. What is the point of the return command? Everywhere I've googled I've seen explanations which seem to require knowledge of computer science. I'm just a noob programmer so I'd appreciate a simple explanation.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/43hzz3/eli5_what_is_the_return_statement_in_python/
{ "a_id": [ "czicos3", "czicthe", "czidi1l", "cziedl2" ], "score": [ 6, 4, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "A return means \"end this function, and optionally give the value back to the caller\".\n\nIn other words, let's say you have a function that calculates some value:\n\n def myfu...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
6rv2dz
how does apple geolocate a photo taken in an airplane with the wifi turned off and no cell service?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6rv2dz/eli5_how_does_apple_geolocate_a_photo_taken_in_an/
{ "a_id": [ "dl7yjv9", "dl7ylad", "dl7z0r6" ], "score": [ 10, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Gps receiver in the phone doesn't need cell/data service to work. It'll receive the satellite signal(s) directly. \n\n\nIf you travel internationally, download the map of the area you will be in befor...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
21xrnc
why has broadcasting tv never caused bandwidth problems, whereas streaming movies does?
Why is broadcasting TV and HD movies not a problem of bandwidth, whereas streaming series and movies in moderate quality is a problem for people with weak connections (who might even get high definition TV)? Thank you for explanining like I'm five!
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/21xrnc/eli5_why_has_broadcasting_tv_never_caused/
{ "a_id": [ "cghfw7y", "cghhnvc", "cghtxnn" ], "score": [ 3, 5, 2 ], "text": [ "Broadcast is one-direction. Like someone shouting to a crowd, it doesn't matter how many people are listening.\n\nStreaming is two-way. Your computer is constantly talking back to the server. The server...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
3nztor
why is it so hard to hold up our hands without them twitching?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3nztor/eli5why_is_it_so_hard_to_hold_up_our_hands/
{ "a_id": [ "cvss9x1" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "I can't speak for the average person but I have a story that might resonate with some people checking this post. Maybe even explain something.\n\nDISCLAIMER: Most peoples hands twitch and shake a little. This is normal.\n\nMy hands have been shak...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
1qkfqg
where does the money for nobel prize come from
I know that in the beginning people got Nobel's money, but how about now 100 years later?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1qkfqg/eli5_where_does_the_money_for_nobel_prize_come/
{ "a_id": [ "cddp41n" ], "score": [ 6 ], "text": [ "Technically the awards come from the interest on his money, he left a very large fortune (equivalent to around $250 million today) to the foundation and it's been carefully invested. [94% of the capital today](_URL_0_) came from the original end...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-10-16/nobel-foundation-seeks-charity-as-hedge-funds-prove-inadequate.html" ] ]
8ivc6z
how do movies and tv shows get transported to the cinemas and tv stations?
Like Blu Rays? Hard Disk? Internet? Today i found a Blu Ray 4k Release which is over 80 Gbs. How to handle a complete Season?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8ivc6z/eli5how_do_movies_and_tv_shows_get_transported_to/
{ "a_id": [ "dyuulcr", "dyv1iza" ], "score": [ 10, 2 ], "text": [ "Nowadays, hard disks are delivered to cinemas and every time they wish to play the movie, they send a request to the main server. The server sends in an decryption key which enables the cinema to play the movie, on the proj...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
17sq5h
how can there be a liquid lake under tons of ice in the antarctic?
Is it the pressure or something? Wouldn't the cold make it stay solid ice instead of water? And if it is the pressure or some other phenomenon, why aren't there more under-ice lakes? Thanks! EDIT: As discussed here _URL_0_
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/17sq5h/eli5_how_can_there_be_a_liquid_lake_under_tons_of/
{ "a_id": [ "c88hh6j" ], "score": [ 9 ], "text": [ "Pressure is part of it. Lake Vostok, which is what I am assume you are referring to, is just the largest subglacial lake that we know of. There are an estimated 400 others on earth. They aren't incredibly common because there aren't a lot of plac...
[]
[ "http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/348007/description/Life_found_deep_below_Antarctic_ice" ]
[ [] ]
1jisve
how can hackers clear a bank account... and leave no trail ?
How is it possible that someone can get into your bank account, and wire money out of it... leaving behind no trail that the feds can follow to their bank ?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1jisve/eli5_how_can_hackers_clear_a_bank_account_and/
{ "a_id": [ "cbf2m8a" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "It's not possible. If the money leaves the bank the bank knows where it went. The problem is that doesn't have to lead to a real person at the end." ] }
[]
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[ [] ]
3prh0y
why are the ttip meetings all behind closed doors?
Is this common for international treaties? If so, why?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3prh0y/eli5_why_are_the_ttip_meetings_all_behind_closed/
{ "a_id": [ "cw8r4bs" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "It is very common when negotionating important treaties.\n\nIn short, it is done so both sides can know that the other side won't suddenly change position overnight because of an opinion poll caused by people having an outrage about something th...
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[ [] ]
1pep1e
the concept behind an ssd/hdd hybriddrive and its benefit over one ssd and one hdd?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1pep1e/eli5_the_concept_behind_an_ssdhdd_hybriddrive_and/
{ "a_id": [ "cd1jyhx", "cd1l6tk", "cd1mqwb" ], "score": [ 3, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Cost is the only benefit over adding a full SSD.\n\n\n\nHybrids usually have some small amount of Flash in them let's say 4GB. They then try and monitor data blocks requested and put copies of the most ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
1q9fwx
how do headshops get away with selling marijuana paraphernalia?
If they find a glass weed pipe in my car, I would get in trouble for possession of marijuana paraphernalia. But the headshop where I bought it from is selling them perfectly legally. How does this work?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1q9fwx/eli5how_do_headshops_get_away_with_selling/
{ "a_id": [ "cdaijuq", "cdail9m", "cdajz8n", "cdan37g" ], "score": [ 6, 4, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "The pipes are not illegal. You can safely display them as art or use them to smoke tobacco if you'd like. It is the possession and consumption of weed that is illegal.", "Pipes...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
30kk4s
what happens to your dna when you die?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/30kk4s/eli5what_happens_to_your_dna_when_you_die/
{ "a_id": [ "cptavti" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "I just happen to be reading a book that answers this in the first chapter:\n\n\n > When we die, we stop breathing; the cells in our body then run out of oxygen, and as a consequence their energy runs out. This stops the repair of DNA, and various...
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[ [] ]
6ivxsp
why is the modern design of cars with two seats in the front most efficient? couldn't you put all the seats in a row, or 3 in the front and back?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6ivxsp/eli5_why_is_the_modern_design_of_cars_with_two/
{ "a_id": [ "dj9hiia" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "You don't want the driver to be cramped, and having everyone in the same row means you have to build roads twice as wide." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3zkzae
what exactly does obama's move to background checks mean for gun buyers, and why is this decision opposed by a good number of republicans?
If it's just as simple as background checks, why does it seem like an issue? Or am I missing something?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3zkzae/eli5_what_exactly_does_obamas_move_to_background/
{ "a_id": [ "cymx04t", "cymygo6" ], "score": [ 3, 3 ], "text": [ "Background checks are already law. This just reinforces that law. \n\nWhy are people upset about reinforcing a law that we already have? I really wish I knew. To me, it doesn't seem like an issue, and I am a gun owner. \n\nI...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
a57ia9
how do milligrams of medicine dosage become effective in kilograms of body weight?
How does this 'biomagnification' occur?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/a57ia9/eli5_how_do_milligrams_of_medicine_dosage_become/
{ "a_id": [ "ebkevas" ], "score": [ 7 ], "text": [ "Really there are a lot of molecules in that milligram, just for perspective even a single microgram (0,001 mg) of the substance with the largest molecules known still has more than 150 trillion molecules in it, and that’s just a very extreme exam...
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[]
[ [] ]
65o0yh
how did 'made in china' come to mean low quality?
China was the first to use gunpowder, and made fireworks, and other such technological advances, and now/a few years ago it came to be synonymous with low quality. I don't want to know why (that's easy to answer), I want to know how they got there.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/65o0yh/eli5_how_did_made_in_china_come_to_mean_low/
{ "a_id": [ "dgbtkcu", "dgbtnfk" ], "score": [ 8, 7 ], "text": [ "Interested on how you thinking Chinese being first to use gunpowder and fireworks means high quality..", "Because chinese factories can produce many times as much product as conventional means through low cost labor and ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
5arbm9
why aren't nuclear reactors more common place in developed countries when they are so efficient? are the dangers involved in switching completely to nuclear energy simply too great?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5arbm9/eli5_why_arent_nuclear_reactors_more_common_place/
{ "a_id": [ "d9in6bg", "d9intt6", "d9io3mk", "d9io8ec", "d9iqf9l", "d9itpp8" ], "score": [ 7, 3, 3, 15, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "It's less the dangers of switching than the (mostly implied) dangers of having them \"in your backyard\". \n\nThe big problem develope...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://ais.badische-zeitung.de/piece/00/33/bf/87/3391367-p-590_450.jpg" ] ]
2g8471
how does david blaine perform his levitation illusion?
I always wondered how he performed his tricks, but the levitation illusion is my favorite.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2g8471/eli5_how_does_david_blaine_perform_his_levitation/
{ "a_id": [ "ckgivdk", "ckgl3t3", "ckgm4xl" ], "score": [ 4, 3, 6 ], "text": [ "Misdirection. He is actually standing on his toes on the foot away from the observer and blocking their view with the other foot", "Unfortunately he also resorted to camera tricks when presenting t...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
4b97k3
can increasing the hippocampus help you remember things from your past?
I've read that excersise and mediation help to increase the size of the hippocampus, which in turn helps your memory and mood. Let's say you successfully increase its size, will you remember things you have once forgotten? An example, family trips or things that happened a couple years ago that you can't quite remember...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4b97k3/eli5_can_increasing_the_hippocampus_help_you/
{ "a_id": [ "d175w3v" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "No, memories are stored by way of neural connection. These connections are routinely pruned to help keep brain function uncluttered and allow for new memories. Once a memory is gone, it's gone. \n\nPlus your brain is already jam-packed inside you...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
7zmp9z
why do healthy foods at the stores nutrition labels always seem devoid of nutrition?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7zmp9z/eli5_why_do_healthy_foods_at_the_stores_nutrition/
{ "a_id": [ "dup692k" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "In general it's because of companies and farmers lobbying the FDA about what essential nutrients appear on the label. Iodine is an essential nutrient, why isn't it on the label? Vitamin C is essential, but in everything; why is it on the label? \...
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[]
[ [] ]
68zwwz
why do some people not like traveling backwards on trains and buses?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/68zwwz/eli5_why_do_some_people_not_like_traveling/
{ "a_id": [ "dh2kx0c", "dh2n1c5" ], "score": [ 5, 4 ], "text": [ "They get confused with what they see (backwards) and what they know (moving forward), and they might get dizzy.", "Inner ear regulates balance in humans and relies partially on visual cue from eyes. If one of the input i...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
5zp7no
why is george w bush considered a bad president?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5zp7no/eli5_why_is_george_w_bush_considered_a_bad/
{ "a_id": [ "dezws8j" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "* Draft-dodging alcoholic;\n\n* Low intellect, made frequent verbal gaffes by speaking before he thought;\n\n* Freezing like a deer in the headlights on September 11 2001;\n\n* Starting another Iraq War on false pretences;\n\n* Failure to lead on...
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[]
[ [] ]
67b77w
will someone explain why the election in france is so globally important?
Title says it.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/67b77w/eli5will_someone_explain_why_the_election_in/
{ "a_id": [ "dgp1xpe", "dgp20dg", "dgp3ism", "dgpcri6" ], "score": [ 19, 2, 11, 2 ], "text": [ "As I understand it, there was a candidate in the running who wanted to have France pull a Brexit. Since France is a large economic force in the EU, a lot of countries would possi...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SeEHQhARESU" ], [] ]