q_id
stringlengths
5
6
title
stringlengths
3
296
selftext
stringlengths
0
34k
document
stringclasses
1 value
subreddit
stringclasses
1 value
url
stringlengths
4
110
answers
dict
title_urls
list
selftext_urls
list
answers_urls
list
4c4cm6
why is the bottom of a metal can concave inwards?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4c4cm6/eli5_why_is_the_bottom_of_a_metal_can_concave/
{ "a_id": [ "d1exmfs" ], "score": [ 7 ], "text": [ "Everything you could possibly want to know about the design of soda cans can be found in [this video.](_URL_0_)" ] }
[]
[]
[ [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hUhisi2FBuw" ] ]
3vcidc
how do people circumnavigate the world by walking or biking?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3vcidc/eli5how_do_people_circumnavigate_the_world_by/
{ "a_id": [ "cxmac2e" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "They \"cheat,\" or at least don't do it in the way you're imagining.\n\nMany people make their trip in stages. Say, they travel from Alaska down to California, take a break for a while, and then come back to California to continue. By the end of ...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
4nvmxn
brexit - how the referendum works, why?, and the potential consequences
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4nvmxn/eli5_brexit_how_the_referendum_works_why_and_the/
{ "a_id": [ "d47bg6k" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "As a part of his campaign to get reelected David Cameron promised to hold a referendum about the UK leaving the EU. He did so because in the preceding EU elections UKIP a party advocating for the BREXIT won a majority of votes and took over many ...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
1ny2lr
why do you wake up sometimes and feel like you're paralyzed and can't move, even though you're aware you're awake?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1ny2lr/eli5_why_do_you_wake_up_sometimes_and_feel_like/
{ "a_id": [ "ccn3vck", "ccn3wnb", "ccn4far", "ccn7wmi", "ccn8oub", "ccnde1i" ], "score": [ 9, 7, 2, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "It's basically because your head is awake, yet your body is still asleep. [Sleep paralysis](_URL_0_)", "Why you dream you enter a st...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sleep_paralysis" ], [], [], [], [], [] ]
3np2rr
why are small engines so much louder than a car engine, and why can't we make them quieter?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3np2rr/eli5_why_are_small_engines_so_much_louder_than_a/
{ "a_id": [ "cvq0gf7", "cvq0oc8", "cvq0qxx", "cvq81gq" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 6, 3 ], "text": [ "There is probably a lot more to it than this but I would expect the following play a role:\n\n1) If you're referring to when you're inside the vehicle, there is sound deadening mat...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
65z37t
if dark surfaces are contributing to global warming. would painting roads white help?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/65z37t/eli5_if_dark_surfaces_are_contributing_to_global/
{ "a_id": [ "dgealhc" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "It would contribute, but the amount would be absolutely minimal. Only around 0.1% of Earth's surface is paved, so even painting *all the pavement in the world* would have a very modest effect." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
5lexas
it's been 12 years since the tallest roller coaster was built. is there a limit to roller coaster heights, or what is the reason why there hasn't been more competition?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5lexas/eli5_its_been_12_years_since_the_tallest_roller/
{ "a_id": [ "dbv5x2q", "dbv682f", "dbv7195", "dbvkv4v", "dbvls7y" ], "score": [ 4, 10, 16, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "It's probably twofold:\n\n(1) The economy sucks. Theme parks are a bit of a luxury good - > people are less inclined to pour money in to them during hard t...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://www.usthrillrides.com/products/polercoaster/", "http://www.thecoastercritic.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/fish-hook-roller-coaster-statosphere.jpg" ], [], [ "https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drachen_Fire" ], [] ]
3aillh
why do commercial aircraft turn the cabin lights off when taking off and landing at night?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3aillh/eli5why_do_commercial_aircraft_turn_the_cabin/
{ "a_id": [ "cscy5ma", "cscyoh3" ], "score": [ 201, 42 ], "text": [ "The cabin lights are dimmed in case there is a problem and they need to evacuate. The dim light inside means it doesn't take as long for your eyes to adjust to the dark if you need to get out of the plane and follow direc...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gqWeJGwV_U" ] ]
1vrdp8
why do countries such as korea have such insane internet speeds, yet countries such as the us don't have the same, if not better?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1vrdp8/why_do_countries_such_as_korea_have_such_insane/
{ "a_id": [ "cev1s6d", "cev1upo", "cev1yqt", "cev28wc", "cev2i7s", "cev2pm5", "cev2u66", "cev2vtb", "cev30c7", "cev31w4", "cev35ab", "cev3aat", "cev3cfn", "cev3e7x", "cev3hfm", "cev3mte", "cev3oyx", "cev3sqr", "cev3xh7", "cev4322", "c...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [ "http://www.pbs.org/cringely/pulpit/2007/pulpit_20070803_002641.html" ], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/28/why-is-european-broadband-faster-and-cheaper-blame-the-governme/" ], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], ...
7fv273
why does the temperature surrounding an led affect the brightness?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7fv273/eli5_why_does_the_temperature_surrounding_an_led/
{ "a_id": [ "dqej7a1", "dqeny4k" ], "score": [ 6, 2 ], "text": [ "Because how much light it gives off depends on the amount of electricity goes through it. Changes in temperature can change the resistance of a material, which changes how much electricity goes into the LED, which changed ho...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
slhzq
what exactly happens inside a muscle when it tenses?
A human bicep, for example, appears bulge outward when flexed. What are the individual fibers doing? Does strength = more muscle fibers or larger muscle fibers?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/slhzq/what_exactly_happens_inside_a_muscle_when_it/
{ "a_id": [ "c4ez0s3", "c4f35ol" ], "score": [ 2, 4 ], "text": [ "I think I can get the first half of your question.\n\n[Here](_URL_0_) is a picture of muscle fiber. So, in this case the muscles are running up and down. These fibers are made of thick and thin fibers, lying right next to on...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://www.histology-world.com/photoalbum/displayimage.php?album=55&pid=3297", "http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvMFdNw35L0&feature=related", "http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CepeYFvqmk4#t=01m38s", "http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CepeYFvqmk4" ], [] ]
6907iz
why do radio stations play talk radio in the mornings instead of music?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6907iz/eli5_why_do_radio_stations_play_talk_radio_in_the/
{ "a_id": [ "dh2ocaa", "dh2s238", "dh3239n", "dh37b3i" ], "score": [ 28, 6, 20, 3 ], "text": [ "Radio stations, just like TV, have time slots. Certain times lots have certain audiences. In the late night/ early morning most listeners are traveling/truckers... People traveli...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
2x6c4c
the legal aspect behind taking a students phone in class
So this came up in my high school class(public school, california) and I was wondering if what the teacher proposed would be legal. Our class apparently has a lot of issues with phones in class and the teachers have had enough. Normally, the teacher takes the phone for the remainder of the class, and then gives it back...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2x6c4c/eli5_the_legal_aspect_behind_taking_a_students/
{ "a_id": [ "coxbl0f", "coxcdg3", "coxchw1", "coxhtbh", "coxpkqr" ], "score": [ 10, 2, 2, 3, 3 ], "text": [ "First off, I am not a lawyer. That said, schools are considered legal guardians of the students during the school day. This gives them certain rights as well...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
eelehb
how do bluetooth earbuds keep the sound perfectly synchronised between the left and right bud ?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/eelehb/eli5_how_do_bluetooth_earbuds_keep_the_sound/
{ "a_id": [ "fbud6lf", "fbuj2km" ], "score": [ 5, 3 ], "text": [ "Each earbud is basically a small signal receiver. Signal from music player is send simultaneousely to both of them, but some things (stereo sound) are different. You don't have to synchronize them too much, because microchip...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1w1fk5
how do plot twists in dreams work?
How is it that we are surprised while experiencing our dreams when it's our brain that is creating the dream / plot twist? i.e. how are we shocked that something happens when in fact we've created that shocking event? For example, if I'm dreaming and I'm being pursued by a bad guy until I reach safety at the police st...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1w1fk5/eli5_how_do_plot_twists_in_dreams_work/
{ "a_id": [ "cexswn4" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Perhaps you have already answered your own question... Your brain is creating the dream right as you dream it! Maybe in your dream, you are nervous because your brain has't decided if you are going to reach the police station or not.\n\nHave you ...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2f7v86
how do hospitals stay bug-free?
I've noticed that not a single hospital I've been to in any first-world nation has any kind of flies or mosquitoes. How do they manage to keep them completely out of the building when there are windows and doors that can let them in?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2f7v86/eli5_how_do_hospitals_stay_bugfree/
{ "a_id": [ "ck6q9af", "ck6qajr", "ck6qc8b" ], "score": [ 13, 6, 3 ], "text": [ "Mosquito and flies like damp and warm environments. Hospitals, do their best to keep their environment dry and cool/freezing. Compared to the inside of a hospital, the incests prefer the garden outsi...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
dn1jgz
why is it harder to swallow a pill or tablet than a piece of food the same size or bigger
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dn1jgz/eli5_why_is_it_harder_to_swallow_a_pill_or_tablet/
{ "a_id": [ "f56x431", "f575jqf", "f578hgb", "f57z4a0", "f58gf7d", "f58pb9e", "f58rqb7", "f594tec", "f596942", "f59jqlh" ], "score": [ 58, 38, 4987, 7, 17, 4, 7, 56, 34, 5 ], "text": [ "Because the pill or tablet has been chew...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
si3w2
trisomy 21 (down syndrome)
Our 2-month-old son has Down Syndrome and I need help explaining it to people. It's been explained to my husband and I several times by different medical providers but I have no idea how to explain it clearly and concisely!
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/si3w2/eli5_trisomy_21_down_syndrome/
{ "a_id": [ "c4e83xa" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Humans normally have 46 chromosomes in each cell, divided into 23 pairs. Two copies of chromosome 21, one copy inherited from each parent, form one of the pairs. Chromosome 21 is the smallest human chromosome, spanning about 47 million base pairs...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
361uke
the difference between coca-cola, diet coke, coke life.
What exactly am I putting in my temple of pizza and garlic bread?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/361uke/eli5_the_difference_between_cocacola_diet_coke/
{ "a_id": [ "cr9wmld", "cr9wmyu", "cr9x3xq" ], "score": [ 11, 10, 4 ], "text": [ "Coca Cola uses lots of sugar, and hence has lots of calories\n\nDiet Coke replaces the sugar with sweeteners such as aspartame, which are calorie-free. Therefore the drink is calorie-free. (It actuall...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
7hrbzv
why dont the eyeballs of animals like snow leopards that thrive at -30 degrees freeze over? do they just blink every millisecond?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7hrbzv/eli5_why_dont_the_eyeballs_of_animals_like_snow/
{ "a_id": [ "dqt7ib4", "dqta3hm", "dqtc2xk", "dqtkaj0", "dqtmsrp", "dqtmzea", "dqtn5kx", "dqto5wc", "dqtpeht" ], "score": [ 1021, 20, 296, 2, 9, 2, 5, 7, 2 ], "text": [ "Minerals (salt) in the eyewater - this reduces the freezing poin...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [ "http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-4271338/How-cold-weather-make-BLIND.html" ], [], [], [], [], [] ]
4epru2
how does chocolate make people happy and why do women seem to use it more than men do for euphoria?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4epru2/eli5_how_does_chocolate_make_people_happy_and_why/
{ "a_id": [ "d229gqs" ], "score": [ 9 ], "text": [ "Commercials and advertisements often sell chocolate on women's reoccurring issues as a marketing ploy. Similar to how women are the receiving end on advertisements dealing with certain gift-giving holidays. It is used to sell it. It doesn't neces...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3th5aj
why is the pythagorean theorem not a law?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3th5aj/why_is_the_pythagorean_theorem_not_a_law/
{ "a_id": [ "cx62liz" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "I think you are confusing theorem with theory. \n\n**Theorem:**\n > * a general proposition not self-evident but proved by a chain of reasoning; a truth established by means of accepted truths.\n\n > * a rule in algebra or other branches of mat...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
8qfqoy
since 99% of bridges are designed to be a straight span over a highway, why isn't there a "best" design that's represented everywhere?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8qfqoy/eli5_since_99_of_bridges_are_designed_to_be_a/
{ "a_id": [ "e0ivwp9", "e0iyboi" ], "score": [ 20, 2 ], "text": [ "I don't know where you got that 99 & #37; figure from, but each bridge is a unique challenge that has to be designed for those conditions. They aren't cookie cutter designs that can be repeated. The distance, height, stabil...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
5ms9pp
why is the word "no" the same in spanish and english?
Did one language borrow it from the other in development or did they both develop separately?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5ms9pp/eli5why_is_the_word_no_the_same_in_spanish_and/
{ "a_id": [ "dc630bd", "dc65da2" ], "score": [ 4, 3 ], "text": [ "Latin. French, Spanish, and Italian are all fundamentally based on Latin, which was spread across Europe by the Roman Empire, and are based off of the latin word \"non\" (which actually doesn't precisely mean no, but that's ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
qbgmj
how do anti-discrimination employment rules affect states where you can be still be fired for no good reason?
It's a bit of a silly example, but as I understand it, in many states, an employer can legally fire you not because you've done anything wrong, but because they don't like your shoes or haircut. What prevents an employer from unjustly getting rid of an otherwise good employee who is black or gay, and saying it's becau...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/qbgmj/eli5_how_do_antidiscrimination_employment_rules/
{ "a_id": [ "c3w8z0j", "c3w94k9", "c3w99vp", "c3warbg", "c3wd524", "c3wd77h" ], "score": [ 7, 25, 7, 11, 3, 5 ], "text": [ "In the UK, where I live, there is a legal concept called \"[Unfair Dismissal](_URL_0_)\", which exists for pretty much that exact reas...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unfair_dismissal_in_the_United_Kingdom" ], [], [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/At-will_employment" ], [], [] ]
1up74t
how did populations in areas such as africa survive thousands of years ago without rainwater or means of purifying water, whereas these days in deprived areas it is difficult to survive?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1up74t/how_did_populations_in_areas_such_as_africa/
{ "a_id": [ "cekbpzp", "cekfnba" ], "score": [ 6, 4 ], "text": [ "Two things: The areas in Africa where populations survived thousands of years ago were near river beds; not all of Africa is a giant desert, and even today Egypt is a thriving metropolis. And in modern days, the places like ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
a8l9w4
how come sometimes i'm the mornings it's really hard to keep your eyes open while other days it's really easy?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/a8l9w4/eli5_how_come_sometimes_im_the_mornings_its/
{ "a_id": [ "ecblnp6", "ecblxph" ], "score": [ 6, 3 ], "text": [ "It is due to the different stages of sleep. Depending on which state you were in when waking you are more or less sleepy. ", "It has to do with rem cycles and your circadian rhythms and of course a consistent sleep sched...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
115xx1
what happens inside your body when you puke
My son was sick and throwing up last night. He was throwing up bad and it was really firing out. So I'm curious what makes it shoot out like that
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/115xx1/eli5_what_happens_inside_your_body_when_you_puke/
{ "a_id": [ "c6jlisu" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "It's a reversal of your ingestion process. What will happen is that your stomach and diaphragm will tense up, and then your throat will operate the muscles of your swallowing mech. in reverse. This is all done in very rapid succession which cause...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3ft380
why are youtubers allowed to show video game content in their videos but not movies or songs?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3ft380/eli5_why_are_youtubers_allowed_to_show_video_game/
{ "a_id": [ "ctromj0", "ctrovss" ], "score": [ 2, 4 ], "text": [ "Cgp grey does a good video on copyright. Im not in any way an expert but my understanding is copyright law is fickle", "The content is still copyrighted and video game publishers could have it pulled but they mostly cho...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
7iz122
what would happen if i force-fed someone dry ice?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7iz122/eli5_what_would_happen_if_i_forcefed_someone_dry/
{ "a_id": [ "dr2gfyp", "dr2gu1w" ], "score": [ 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Dry ice is about -80C. It would freeze their insides pretty darn quickly. It would be fatal. Do not do this. You would go to jail for murder. ", " > What would happen if I force-fed someone dry ice?\n\nYou would go to j...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
36jug6
if a company calls for a recall (on anything) and i don't get the appliance/car/whatever fixed, who is at fault if something occurs?
I've often wondered if a company puts out a recall on their product, when does their liability start to reduce, if ever. I imagine, and please correct me if I am wrong, that it is my responsibility as a purchaser, new or used, to be aware of recalls on my possessions. I also figure, again correct me if I am wrong, th...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/36jug6/eli5_if_a_company_calls_for_a_recall_on_anything/
{ "a_id": [ "crekp4t" ], "score": [ 8 ], "text": [ "The manufacturer, by issuing the recall and offering to repair or replace the defective item, has met their liability, *whether or not you take them up on it*.\n\nSo, if you continue to use a recalled product, that's on you." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2479j8
why do some houses have a chimney without a fireplace?
My home has 2 chimneys and exactly 0 fire places
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2479j8/eli5_why_do_some_houses_have_a_chimney_without_a/
{ "a_id": [ "ch49rbr" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Your home probably used to have two fireplaces/stoves at one time. In most older homes chimneys are built in to the frame, and if the frame of the house is built well-enough to survive until present day renovators would work around the frame, rat...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
1zv651
can i pan for gold?
I've always wanted to try this, and I wondered where I could pan for gold, legally. I mean, I just want to try it once. I don't expect to get anything at all, but I don't want to get into any legal trouble. What are the laws for this?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1zv651/eli5_can_i_pan_for_gold/
{ "a_id": [ "cfx9ho7" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Yes! I never found it that interesting personally, but you can get a kit [here](_URL_1_) on amazon. I have no idea if this is a good deal or if the equipment is good.\n\nIn terms of getting into it there are gold panning clubs in most major metro...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://www.goldprospectors.org/", "http://www.amazon.com/Garrett-Metal-Detectors-1651300-Gold/dp/B000GFQ61G" ] ]
1v704v
why are rising house prices considered 'good'? if anything else rose in price, it's usually not considered good.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1v704v/eli5why_are_rising_house_prices_considered_good/
{ "a_id": [ "cepas21", "cepat4f", "cepek1v", "cepep77" ], "score": [ 10, 6, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Price is an indicator of demand in economics.\n\nRising prices mean increased demand. Rising housing prices mean an increase in the demand for houses. \n\nHouses have be linked ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
6yfm11
how do we feel a weightlessness in there bottom of our stomach when we see videos of people falling even though we don't experience any of it physically?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6yfm11/eli5_how_do_we_feel_a_weightlessness_in_there/
{ "a_id": [ "dmn4bob" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "This is due to a sympathetic nervous response, also known as a \"fight or flight\" response.\n\nSympathetic in this case doesn't mean a response that's sympathetic to the thing you are watching. Sympathetic is the name of a branch of the nervous ...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
5ekcdq
how does an electric generator adapt its momentarily power output to the momentarily power demand of its electric loads?
Hi, I understand the basic principle how electric generators works. But there is one thing I do not understand. I try to explain with a easy use-at-home diesel generator. I turn the generator on, and the diesel engine turns at a certain RPM, matching to the electric frequency. The generator runs on idle. There is not...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5ekcdq/eli5_how_does_an_electric_generator_adapt_its/
{ "a_id": [ "dad39wg", "dad3x2c", "dadfy4m" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "The load creates counter electromotive force and slows the rotating assembly down. The key thing here is the generator has two control systems voltage and speed.\n\nAt no load the generator has a voltag...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
25prr0
how is it that throughout all the billions of people that have lived on this planet, each of us still has our own distinct appearance completely (most of the time) different from everyone else living or dead?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/25prr0/eli5_how_is_it_that_throughout_all_the_billions/
{ "a_id": [ "chjjezi", "chjjfia" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "We don't. You just don't know anyone who looks exactly like anyone else because the chances are so low. My mother and her oldest daughter look identical in pictures of them at the same age. The only difference that is obviou...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://justsomething.co/24-celebrities-and-their-incredible-look-alikes-from-the-past/" ] ]
49j729
how are plastic microbeads in facial washes and soap so much more dangerous than sand, which is already common in lakes and oceans?
Also pumice and ground peach pits, which we've been putting in soap for decades?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/49j729/eli5_how_are_plastic_microbeads_in_facial_washes/
{ "a_id": [ "d0s60yf", "d0s7psw", "d0sbmjm", "d0sisc7", "d0snfaa", "d0spe0t", "d0sq1o7", "d0sq61l", "d0ssyx2" ], "score": [ 635, 25, 8, 142, 2, 11, 2, 4, 3 ], "text": [ "It's not the size of the beads that's the direct problem, it's w...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/IN10319.pdf" ], [], [], [ "https://www.pca.state.mn.us/news/plastic-microbeads-our-waters" ], [], [], [], [] ]
2afcag
why do i always have to wait 20 minutes or more (past my appointment) after being taken back to a room in a doctor's office?
It never fails, though I know there must be some good reason. Hopefully someone with experience in a doctor's office can shed some light. Is it about insurance billing, cramming the most patients you can in to a day?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2afcag/eli5_why_do_i_always_have_to_wait_20_minutes_or/
{ "a_id": [ "ciuhlwy", "ciujl0h" ], "score": [ 6, 2 ], "text": [ "I was a receptionist for a primary care doctor for almost 4 years, as well as for a group of surgeons. Basically, they structure their day much the same way we plan anything. They expect to see a certain number of people an...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
3ckajn
why are some things like richter and decibel measured in a non-linear scale? what benefit is there?
And wouldn't a linear scale be better for everyone involved to better comprehend scales? thanks
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3ckajn/eli5_why_are_some_things_like_richter_and_decibel/
{ "a_id": [ "cswauzn", "cswayf3" ], "score": [ 5, 11 ], "text": [ "The things they measure grow rapidly, so the numbers would become really large very quickly. Measuring sound with a linear scale (pascals) means measuring both very small (0.00006 Pa for soft breathing) and very large (700...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
3cq4z0
why is nosql becoming a popular alternative to sql for database management systems?
What business requirement/problem is NoSQL designed to solve? What are the pros and cons of each? Which one is easier to create and maintain for programmers and database administrators? Which one offers better scalability? Which one offers better performance? Which one offers better readability for the end users? Etc.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3cq4z0/eli5_why_is_nosql_becoming_a_popular_alternative/
{ "a_id": [ "csxwxlx" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "SQL is designed to give you a known good result with every search.\n\nnoSQL is designed to give you an answer fast. It may not be valid.\n\nIf you're doing bank transactions, you want to know that every interaction with your database is current a...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
dlu4aw
why did photographs and videos historically start to look very accurate only about ten years ago?
Pick any high-quality, high-budget photograph or video from the 1990s or earlier and you can easily tell it was made during that period. It doesn't matter whether it's a Hollywood movie or a televised presidential debate; the cameras back then just weren't as good as the ones today. Starting at around 2008 or so, came...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dlu4aw/eli5_why_did_photographs_and_videos_historically/
{ "a_id": [ "f4uck0g", "f4ucsik", "f4ug749" ], "score": [ 11, 2, 5 ], "text": [ "You may be forgetting about the transition from film cameras to digital. And I think a big part of what you are identifying here is simply the look of digital vs film.\n\n2008 is about the time that pr...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "https://www.askamathematician.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dadbandwandcolour.jpg" ] ]
czead1
what happens to the colony when you trap/kill wasps?
what happens when you say, trap 200 or so wasps from a colony? does the queen come out? do the other wasps notice a reduction in workmanship? do they forage faster/harder/stronger?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/czead1/eli5_what_happens_to_the_colony_when_you_trapkill/
{ "a_id": [ "eyy05t5" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "I think they will first re-allocate surviving wasps from expanding the nest to feeding the babies (to replace the dead ones)\n\nBut if you catch enough of them, the colony will not be able to feed itself, and will die. I doubt the queen can re-s...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://www.waspbane.com/?page_id=124" ] ]
1lcno4
why do we refer to most objects as "it", but occasionally give them genders?
An example would be when people talk about their cars and say, "She's a beauty."
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1lcno4/eli5_why_do_we_refer_to_most_objects_as_it_but/
{ "a_id": [ "cbxw9gd", "cbxxhyv" ], "score": [ 3, 20 ], "text": [ "I asked my father this when I was younger and he said:\n\n\"No one ever refers to things as him, its always it or her. Because women are trouble, and the things that we normally refer to as her (i.e cars) give a lot of trou...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grammatical_gender" ] ]
a04n3m
what are the uses for white pencil crayons?
I never truly understood the exact use of white paper crayons since I'm not exactly an artist. I guess you could use it on coloured paper but are there any other uses?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/a04n3m/eli5_what_are_the_uses_for_white_pencil_crayons/
{ "a_id": [ "eaejt1d", "eaela89" ], "score": [ 11, 7 ], "text": [ "The two uses I know for them are blending lighter colors and adding highlights. These two tasks are typically not done with the same kind of pencil, though. The blendy ones are softer and smear when rubbed. The highlight on...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
6bl7fw
what defines "pop" music?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6bl7fw/eli5what_defines_pop_music/
{ "a_id": [ "dhniirz" ], "score": [ 7 ], "text": [ "Pop stands for \"popular\" so you're asking what characterizes popular music.\n\nSimplicity and redundance is one thing. People appreciate much more easily music that they immediately recognize. I'm not saying songs they've heard before, but patt...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
4aj0uc
if an identical twin get children, and their children take a dna test, will it say that they are half brother/sister?
I mean they don't get children together, but they both get a partner and then get children. (No game of thrones)
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4aj0uc/eli5_if_an_identical_twin_get_children_and_their/
{ "a_id": [ "d10prvr", "d10pxai", "d115gcf" ], "score": [ 222, 23, 4 ], "text": [ "In short, yes. Since identical twins have the same DNA, their offspring will then have DNA that suggests that they share a same parent. This emphasized even more if a set of identical twins have kids...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
2a7uc9
why is art forgery illegal?
Yes, it is fraud if you sell the piece under the guise of it being real. But why does this entice the federal bureau to investigate these cases? I feel as though the energy put into to stomping out arts forgers far outweighs the bad they are doing. They are still producing art, with the same messages behind as an orig...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2a7uc9/eli5_why_is_art_forgery_illegal/
{ "a_id": [ "ciscqa6", "cisdg6v", "cisdq4u" ], "score": [ 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ " > They are still producing art...\n\nwhat they make is not art, it's commodity. the opposite of art.", "You can paint a picture that looks like a famous artist painted it whenever you like. Selling...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
97xs9d
how do the fluid dynamics of toilets work? specifically, how is it you can successfully flush a toilet on a floor higher than ground level?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/97xs9d/eli5_how_do_the_fluid_dynamics_of_toilets_work/
{ "a_id": [ "e4brdnw", "e4bre6m", "e4brqya", "e4fc3q3" ], "score": [ 2, 3, 11, 2 ], "text": [ "Higher? Gravity is in your favor.\nBasically a couple of gallons from the tank flow quickly into the bowl, overflowing the S trap below and a bit behind the bowl (look under ther...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
9ht8na
why does putting hand sanitiser on thermal receipt paper make it turn dark as if heat were being applied to it?
Touched some thermal paper at work today while having hand sanitiser on my hands that hadn't yet evaporated and it turned the parts of the paper I touched black, why is this?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9ht8na/eli5_why_does_putting_hand_sanitiser_on_thermal/
{ "a_id": [ "e6edohh" ], "score": [ 7 ], "text": [ "Thermal paper works because it has an inactive dye which turns black when it reacts with an acid. There is also the acid BPA on the paper; the two are separated by a barrier which melts above a certain temperature. This is what makes it heat-re...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0110509#s1" ] ]
1yzb6i
why don´t developers port games for everything?
For example, why are there so few games ported for macs. Why not port games for other platforms just to get a few more sales?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1yzb6i/eli5why_dont_developers_port_games_for_everything/
{ "a_id": [ "cfp3ad1", "cfp3anf", "cfp3c7c", "cfp6ind" ], "score": [ 6, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "The publisher decided it would cost more to port the code to X platform than they would make from sales of the game on X platform.", "Porting is work, it's not just a matter of...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
c91tdv
after turning off your pc, and after your windows logs off, why does it take around 6 seconds for the pc to completely turn off?
You press turn off, windows does its stuff before finally logging off, then you have a black screen with your pc still on before it finally shuts down! What is happening at these last seconds?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/c91tdv/eli5_after_turning_off_your_pc_and_after_your/
{ "a_id": [ "ess3wmr" ], "score": [ 9 ], "text": [ "It takes a brief period to shut down background processes/services, write logs, unmount file systems; particularly the very file system which contains the operating system. After all this, Windows issues a ‘power off’ command through the motherbo...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
6nh1c1
why are trucks that carry gas/other liquids shaped like a cylinder instead of a rectangle like most trucks
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6nh1c1/eli5_why_are_trucks_that_carry_gasother_liquids/
{ "a_id": [ "dk9ddth" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "A rounded container is much stronger. corners of a rectangular box create a weak spot where pressure could cause a rupture, but a rounded surface inside lets the pressure spread evenly around the surface." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2ztei3
what makes fecal matter such an effective fertilizer?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2ztei3/eli5what_makes_fecal_matter_such_an_effective/
{ "a_id": [ "cpm3knm" ], "score": [ 12 ], "text": [ "Mainly, nitrogen. Plants make their own amino acids (protein building-blocks) from scratch, and you need nitrogen for that. But it's harder to suck nitrogen out of the air than carbon dioxide. Animals eat amino acids and then excrete the nitroge...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
4hw7m4
how come fat shaming subs were removed but subs that promote illegal activities like r/shoplifting are not
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4hw7m4/eli5_how_come_fat_shaming_subs_were_removed_but/
{ "a_id": [ "d2sui61", "d2sw3jd", "d2sx1h5", "d2sy7bo", "d2t14z6", "d2t258l", "d2t32ve" ], "score": [ 51, 14, 8, 11, 10, 2, 6 ], "text": [ "Those subs weren't removed for their content, but because of actions like vote brigading, which violate Reddit...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
21z694
in malls with sweepstakes cars, how do the cars get in there?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/21z694/eli5_in_malls_with_sweepstakes_cars_how_do_the/
{ "a_id": [ "cght660" ], "score": [ 6 ], "text": [ "The main mall doors are removable. The cars are then driven in." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
fh4dja
why some human organs are in pair? (oviducts, kidneys...)
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/fh4dja/eli5_why_some_human_organs_are_in_pair_oviducts/
{ "a_id": [ "fk8rn2o" ], "score": [ 12 ], "text": [ "We are bilaterians, an ancient branch of the evolutionary tree.\n\nAll bilaterians have a generally axisymmetric body plan, with most organs forming in pairs. \n\nThe organs which form singularly (like hearts) are the exception, and evolved long...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2c9t23
why can we "not hear ourselves think" when there are loud noises around?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2c9t23/eli5_why_can_we_not_hear_ourselves_think_when/
{ "a_id": [ "cjdcnqz", "cjdjoww" ], "score": [ 5, 3 ], "text": [ "One possible explanation has to do with brain functioning and how we hear our own \"inner voice\".\n\nWhen we relay a conversation or play a tune in our head or think via inwardly talking to ourselves, brain imaging studies ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
le2pj
how model un works.
The process and the basics of what one does at a conference.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/le2pj/eli5_how_model_un_works/
{ "a_id": [ "c2rz5m8", "c2rz5m8" ], "score": [ 6, 6 ], "text": [ "Well I shall give you a run through of the one I spent last weekend at. I assume protocol will vary somewhat from conference to conference but the basics should be the same.\n\nSo obviously you have your country allocated se...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://unbisnet.un.org/", "http://www.mun-ch.co.uk/index.php?id=1" ], [ "http://unbisnet.un.org/", "http://www.mun-ch.co.uk/index.php?id=1" ] ]
82b5b7
how do maglev trains work?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/82b5b7/eli5_how_do_maglev_trains_work/
{ "a_id": [ "dv8ug04", "dv8v2g1" ], "score": [ 3, 3 ], "text": [ "Big ass electromagnets make train fly. Turn magents on and off at the proper moment, you can push forwards the train with no moving parts.", "Magnets can push or pull, depending on which way they're pointed. You can forc...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1monih
what's actually going on behind the scenes when a loading bar for an installation or process is stuck in the same position for ages, the computer is still responsive, but it's just not moving for hours?
For example, an apple software update on iPhone where it says "Preparing Update" after downloading it.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1monih/eli5_whats_actually_going_on_behind_the_scenes/
{ "a_id": [ "ccb9epd" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "There are some internal processes that do not return their current state. For example when you download a file, your browser can always check how much of it has been downloaded already. But when it is \"preparing an update\", It might try to con...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
5iu4gl
why haven't we counted planet eris in in our solarsystem?
I was playing space engine and looked at our solarsystem when I saw a planet with a really long eclipse time around the sun (560 days * year). I thought when in on it and saw that its name was Eris and it was classified as a planet. Yet I have never heard of it. Why isn't it officially in our solar system like earth an...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5iu4gl/eli5_why_havent_we_counted_planet_eris_in_in_our/
{ "a_id": [ "dbayvix", "dbaywpp", "dbb2hhs" ], "score": [ 4, 7, 8 ], "text": [ "Has it cleared it's orbit from debris?", "Wikipedia would've told you this. It was considered the tenth planet for a short period, then the same definition of planet that ruled out Pluto was approve...
[]
[ "http://i.imgur.com/feUQ4aK.png" ]
[ [], [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_possible_dwarf_planets" ] ]
eu5nj4
how are particles actually placed inside a particle accelerator? like are they shot out of something, if yes how do they get them so smol in the first place?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/eu5nj4/eli5_how_are_particles_actually_placed_inside_a/
{ "a_id": [ "fflfvcc" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "There are a bunch of different ways to get the projectile particles. Two popular methods are:\n\n* Heat up a metal in a vacuum and some material sputters off.\n\n* Inject a gas directly as your projectile.\n\n\nOnce you have your projectiles, yo...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
1vith3
why do i randomly lose the normal ability to grip sometimes?
Sometimes randomly my hands lose normal grip capacity and it is a struggle to open the easiest objects such as a pop bottle. What is going on?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1vith3/eli5why_do_i_randomly_lose_the_normal_ability_to/
{ "a_id": [ "cesof41", "cesohse", "cesp62u" ], "score": [ 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "I don't know what could be causing that, but I am absolutely certain that it has never happened to me and I've never heard of it happening to anyone I know. That sounds rather serious. I'd go to a docto...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carpal_tunnel_syndrome" ], [] ]
3hb40x
how certain soldiers during world war two got bolt action rifles and others got submachine guns.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3hb40x/eli5_how_certain_soldiers_during_world_war_two/
{ "a_id": [ "cu5sywv", "cu5t3s3", "cu5tdmw", "cu5via0", "cu60f2w" ], "score": [ 3, 12, 5, 2, 4 ], "text": [ "Are you asking why they would have gotten a mix instead of all one or all the other or are you asking how they picked who got what?", "At the time, bolt-...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [ "http://www-solar.mcs.st-and.ac.uk/~aaron/WW2ORG/ger.html", "http://www.ww2f.com/topic/19462-toe-for-the-basic-us-infantry-squadplatoon/" ], [] ]
ccmdaa
how come we perceive sunlight as essentially being invisible until we split it down into seperate wavelengths?
We don't see light until it's reflected off something and depending on what the thing is, it absorbs some wavelengths and not others and that's how we perceive colours. But why? How come we just don't see all light all the time (when exposed to it)?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ccmdaa/eli5_how_come_we_perceive_sunlight_as_essentially/
{ "a_id": [ "etnun0o", "etnuubx", "etnuut5", "etnv3kp" ], "score": [ 17, 3, 2, 6 ], "text": [ "We see sunlight when it hits our eyes. You can definitely see direct sunlight, ie when it doesn't reflect off of something - when you look directly at the sun.\n\nWe don't see ran...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
b9sh98
what do electromagnetic waves actually “look” like?
So I spent the better part of my intro physics career (like most folks do, I assume, or maybe the nature of scientific figures just clicked later for me) thinking that light consisted of little squiggly things moving through space. I came to understand, of course, as my studies continued, that the wave model is one mo...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/b9sh98/eli5_what_do_electromagnetic_waves_actually_look/
{ "a_id": [ "ek6rc65", "ek6xm4a", "ek6yw3v" ], "score": [ 10, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "First of all, feel like you want r/askscience but I know what's up, so let's get into the weeds.\n\nLet's stick to sound waves in air. Common ground for us. So think about your air wave, but change you...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Onde_electromagnetique.svg" ] ]
3q6nnw
why do some of tupac's fans think he is still alive? is there compelling evidence, or just a ridiculous conspiracy theory?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3q6nnw/eli5_why_do_some_of_tupacs_fans_think_he_is_still/
{ "a_id": [ "cwcinpf" ], "score": [ 7 ], "text": [ "It's a ridiculous conspiracy theory. Doctors tried to revive him once he'd been shot, he unfortunately died. His body was taken straight to a morgue and he was cremated in weeks coming. All notions of his survival are unsupported by fact and over...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
amf51c
how do monounsaturated fats like those found in olive oil lower blood cholesterol levels?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/amf51c/eli5_how_do_monounsaturated_fats_like_those_found/
{ "a_id": [ "efloy6a" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Unfortunately the exact method by which monounsaturated fatty acids lower LDL, but maintain or raise HDL, is not currently well known; we have just OBSERVED that swapping other fats for monounsaturated fats seems to have a positive effect on bloo...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3aaag1
could you survive falling out of a plane, using nothing but an inflatable life raft, like in temple of doom?
I was watching [Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom](_URL_1_) this morning, and the thought came across. Would jumping out of a plane with nothing other than an inflatable raft be survivable? [Here's the scene](_URL_0_), sorry I couldn't find a better quality version. Edit: thanks for the explanations!
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3aaag1/eli5_could_you_survive_falling_out_of_a_plane/
{ "a_id": [ "csaoow8", "csaoqhc" ], "score": [ 4, 2 ], "text": [ "Mythbusters actually tested this. Their conclusion was that *yes* an inflatable raft could function as a parachute, enough to prevent death at least (though minor injuries were still likely). However, the problem with the ra...
[]
[ "https://youtu.be/fdinqh4CABk?t=2m54s", "http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087469/" ]
[ [], [] ]
31hap9
do dogs know you love them? do they love you back?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/31hap9/eli5_do_dogs_know_you_love_them_do_they_love_you/
{ "a_id": [ "cq1jjcv" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "Inasmuch as a dog is mentally equipped to do that, yes.\n\nDogs instinctively fall into a pack structure, and are most comfortable when their position in the pack is clear, and form bonds with the pack members closest to them. It gives them comf...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
xh0x0
the division between noam chomsky and daniel everett regarding "universal grammar."
I'm not fully understanding the problem. Chomsky has a theory that I don't fully grasp, and Everett claims to find evidence against it. I see a lot of intellectual "name calling" but no explanation of why one has a leg up over the other. Can anyone give me an explanation of their disagreements? And maybe what kind ...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/xh0x0/eli5_the_division_between_noam_chomsky_and_daniel/
{ "a_id": [ "c5mkcm9", "c5macky" ], "score": [ 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Can anyone give me an explanation of their disagreements?\n\n[evilerdave](_URL_0_) did a pretty good LY5 job.\n\nAnd maybe what kind of repercussions it may have? \n\nIt effects how we evolved. If we have built in grammar, ...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/xh0x0/eli5_the_division_between_noam_chomsky_and_daniel/c5ma7nu" ], [] ]
lksm4
how can asian text (like japanese and chinese) be written using jp/ch symbols, but also in the english alphabet?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/lksm4/how_can_asian_text_like_japanese_and_chinese_be/
{ "a_id": [ "c2thf2t", "c2thsk3", "c2thf2t", "c2thsk3" ], "score": [ 11, 7, 11, 7 ], "text": [ "Well, for Mandarin there exists a system called \"Pinyin\" which is the official method of transcription of Chinese into English.\n\nPinyin uses english letters to replicate Chin...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
2yc77g
the formation of the moon (the ejected ring theory)
I understand that the [theory](_URL_0_) of how the moon came about is still not solid, but can someone explain to me The Ejected Ring Theory? And why is the capture theory ruled out?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2yc77g/eli5_the_formation_of_the_moon_the_ejected_ring/
{ "a_id": [ "cp888bx", "cqjibvm" ], "score": [ 4, 2 ], "text": [ "The capture theory doesn't work because the mass of the moon vs the earth make it unlikely; the moon is just too massive to be captured by the earth.\n\nThe Ejected Ring is basically: a large body (about Mar-sized) crashed i...
[]
[ "http://csep10.phys.utk.edu/astr161/lect/moon/moon_formation.html" ]
[ [], [] ]
3musqr
why do some apartments have their own street addresses while others share the same address but have their own apartment number?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3musqr/eli5_why_do_some_apartments_have_their_own_street/
{ "a_id": [ "cviadn8" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "It just depends upon how the builder and local codes decide to work. I don't think there is much logic to it beyond that." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
5ututa
why is coffee almost impossible to be reheated without it tasting burnt and is there anyway to prevent this?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5ututa/eli5_why_is_coffee_almost_impossible_to_be/
{ "a_id": [ "ddwsegw", "ddww57z", "ddwwxqx", "ddwx3qx", "ddwygh8", "ddx7xld" ], "score": [ 89, 11, 7, 4, 3, 3 ], "text": [ "Not really. A lot what you're tasting is actually the changing in flavor of the oils as they pick of contaminants, and the loss of the...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
2upzki
how do ukraine and kazakhstan have such high immigration rates? they don't seem like very desirable locations to move in...
According to Wikipedia and numerous other sources they rank 13th and 16th for highest immigrant population. Why the hell would anybody in their right mind attempt to immigrate there?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2upzki/eli5how_do_ukraine_and_kazakhstan_have_such_high/
{ "a_id": [ "coam80w", "coanmd9" ], "score": [ 3, 3 ], "text": [ "Maybe the immigrants come from even larger shitholes. Ukraine is still not the worst place one could imagine existing.", "Lots of people try to immigrate to the \"in-demand\" countries that are safe, free, and rich in No...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2b50ms
how and why powerful world leaders/governments give away their military equipment such as tanks/launchers/vehicles to militants or other groups that shouldn't have these in the first place?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2b50ms/eli5how_and_why_powerful_world_leadersgovernments/
{ "a_id": [ "cj1upm1", "cj1uyrs" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "The anti-air missiles that the Ukranian separatists (allegedly) used to bring down MH17 weren't *given* to them, they took control of Ukranian military bases. They were parading them around just a few weeks ago, even celebra...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proxy_war", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soviet_war_in_Afghanistan", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vietnam_War", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Indochina_War" ] ]
3uo7zd
why do some water fountains have two streams?
I just noticed today that a lot of water fountains have two streams that converge before the place that you can drink it. Does this offer any technical advantages or is it just cosmetic?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3uo7zd/eli5_why_do_some_water_fountains_have_two_streams/
{ "a_id": [ "cxgk5df" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Articles I've read claim that the purpose is to provide a broader stream of water that fills your mouth more easily." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
7cdm0p
what 'single-tier', 'two-tier', and 'multi-tier' healthcare systems mean
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7cdm0p/eli5_what_singletier_twotier_and_multitier/
{ "a_id": [ "dpp7hmh" ], "score": [ 6 ], "text": [ "The tier system refers to the available levels of healthcare.\n\nSingle-Tier refers to only one health insurer available, which is nationally funded healthcare for all citizens. Basically, your tax dollars pay for the healthcare of everyone, acro...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
1rlvur
what good are wireless routers rated for such high speeds if my isp only gives me 30 mbps?
So. I'm looking at routers because I'm trying to update my family's technology (building a new PC, buying a modem and not renting from Comcast, router, etc..) I'm thinking to myself, the wireless N and AC standards seem great right? They get speeds like 650 Mbps and such and use 2.4/5 Ghz bands. But does any of th...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1rlvur/eli5_what_good_are_wireless_routers_rated_for/
{ "a_id": [ "cdoj4yb", "cdojia6" ], "score": [ 3, 4 ], "text": [ "Intra network communication.\n\nSo if I have a 5 down connection and a 500 down router then I can only take 5 from the internet, but if I have a media server that's streaming to my laptop on the same network I can do transfe...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2acktc
why won't netflix stream in my country using a royalty model?
Why would anyone apply real world borders to the internet? I don't see how anyone would gain from this. They could just open up streaming to everyone in the world and pay a royalty fee to the creators for every view.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2acktc/eli5_why_wont_netflix_stream_in_my_country_using/
{ "a_id": [ "citoes4", "citsd5q" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "The content owners haven't given them permission to do so, and there's no \"royalty model\" in place that would allow such a thing. \n\nThe rights for streaming in other parts of the world may be owned by other people, or th...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
5bh8kp
how do pop ups on most streaming websites work ? the kind that pops when you click on the play button, and must repeatedly be closed ?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5bh8kp/eli5_how_do_pop_ups_on_most_streaming_websites/
{ "a_id": [ "d9olwu4" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "I'm not sure if you're looking for a technical answer or what. But those kinds of ads are built by computer programmers, who can make your computer do almost anything, given enough permissions to the machine.\n\nUsually, these ads function off of...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2fgtcx
why aren't all residential homes built with fire sprinkler systems?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2fgtcx/eli5_why_arent_all_residential_homes_built_with/
{ "a_id": [ "ck923ec" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "I favor an Oxygen-evacuation system. Used to have one of those in our server room. When fire alarm triggers, such a system replaces all the oxygen in a room with some inert gas like halon. People inside have 30 seconds to get out before the envir...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
83726e
why is the macbook pro wall plug so large in comparison to the iphone wall plug?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/83726e/eli5_why_is_the_macbook_pro_wall_plug_so_large_in/
{ "a_id": [ "dvfknt2" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "It's due to the power requirements of the Macbook Pro compared to the iPhone. 85W (MacPro) vs 12W (USB)\n\nIt's a problem of scale, you can't compare the power requirements of the two devices because a MacBook has a much larger processor, and a h...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
7oxx6t
why is it impossible to isolate a magnetic pole?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7oxx6t/eli5_why_is_it_impossible_to_isolate_a_magnetic/
{ "a_id": [ "dsd2qw3", "dsd5bts", "dsdgv6e", "dsdjffi" ], "score": [ 2, 38, 2, 4 ], "text": [ "Magnets are magic of course.\n\nThe ELI5 is that magnets are only magnets because of how the molecules inside make up the magnet. If you have 1cm cube of a rare earth ( natural) m...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
3gdqlc
[electronics] what's the difference between an op-amp and a transistor?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3gdqlc/eli5_electronics_whats_the_difference_between_an/
{ "a_id": [ "ctx6dvn", "ctx6kgt" ], "score": [ 4, 2 ], "text": [ "An op amp is built out of transistors. You can make lots of different varieties of circuits which do amplification, and an op amp is just one useful type that we use a lot.\n\nThe innards of an op amp look like [this](_URL_0...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e0/OpAmpTransistorLevel_Colored_Labeled.svg/2000px-OpAmpTransistorLevel_Colored_Labeled.svg.png" ], [] ]
285c95
how exactly did the bp deepwater horizon blow up in 2010?
Ok so believe it or not, I'm currently on a BP deepwater oil rig, and I was up on the rig floor last night, and the men there were seriously concerned about an unstable well and getting a kick (where oil shoots all over). But I realized I don't really know how it happened. Can somebody explain what happened to me?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/285c95/eli5_how_exactly_did_the_bp_deepwater_horizon/
{ "a_id": [ "ci7jg91" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "_URL_0_\n\nFrom the statements, a large methane bubble went up the drill column and broke a lot of stuff before exploding." ] }
[]
[]
[ [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deepwater_Horizon_explosion#Explosion_and_fire" ] ]
7f9aup
how esports commentators commentate right in front of the athletes? does this not give away vital information especially in games like league and starcraft?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7f9aup/eli5_how_esports_commentators_commentate_right_in/
{ "a_id": [ "dqa9g4c", "dqaa09w" ], "score": [ 7, 2 ], "text": [ "The eathletes are wearing headphones and they're usually in those booths, one per team. Exactly so they can't hear the reaction of the crowd (distracting, or a big \"ooooo!\" might be a tip-off your opponent just pulled some...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
a5n9fa
if an ambulance would happen to run over someone while going to an emergency would it be obligated to keep going or stay and help?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/a5n9fa/eli5_if_an_ambulance_would_happen_to_run_over/
{ "a_id": [ "ebnvlab" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "They would stay to help. Another ambulance would be dispatched to handle the original emergency.\n\nIn many areas, fire dept is also dispatched out for emergencies. Fire stations are usually closer, so they can get to the emergency first and do w...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3mi274
how do phantom pains work? the nerves are no longer there for whatever appendage to feel. so, how does the brain receive pain messages?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3mi274/eli5_how_do_phantom_pains_work_the_nerves_are_no/
{ "a_id": [ "cvf3iqu", "cvf4g8e" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "The nerve is still there. The part in the appendage is obviously gone, but that nerve went all the way to the brain. Thus, at least some part remains, and that part can be quite concerned about the fact that it can no longer...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1spf3h
does playing games like dota/starcraft improve kids' cognitive abilities at all?
I would think it would. It's not like these are simple games. You can't really pickup DOTA 2 and just fuck around in it. To even play you are forced to learn a variety of skills, as well as memorize quite a bit of information about recipes, and then apply that information in a very precise way during games. The same is...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1spf3h/eli5_does_playing_games_like_dotastarcraft/
{ "a_id": [ "cdzyrt9" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "[Article listing just 7 of the benefits](_URL_0_)\n\nAlso, I am sure there are advantages to playing a moderate amount as compared to my 14 hour Civ 5 sessions, but hey, India and Russia aren't going to conquer themselves" ] }
[]
[]
[ [ "http://theweek.com/article/index/241121/7-health-benefits-of-playing-video-games" ] ]
5cz6gm
why do diuretics cause you to urinate so quickly, such as beer or coffee?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5cz6gm/eli5_why_do_diuretics_cause_you_to_urinate_so/
{ "a_id": [ "da0klnf", "da0li6e", "da0t46o", "da14tez" ], "score": [ 2, 13, 2, 4 ], "text": [ "If I may, can I reverse your question? \"Diuretic\" specifically refers to what causes a production of urine, or increased production of urine. \"Di\", meaning \"forced\", \"our...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diuretic" ], [], [], [] ]
dak5nk
how did the assassination of a random austrian-hungarian prince lead to a world war?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dak5nk/eli5_how_did_the_assassination_of_a_random/
{ "a_id": [ "f1qbjjr", "f1qccaa" ], "score": [ 3, 9 ], "text": [ "Alliance chaining- Austria attacked Serbia over this, Russia intervened because it was allied, Germany intervened since it was allied to Austria, France because it was allied to Russia and so on, to everyone fighting", "...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1qxp13
how the hell do non-celebrities get 20k-150k followers on instagram?
Seriously. There's accounts with like 15 year old girls with 10s of thousands of followers. Accounts with 10s of thousands of followers that only have like 20 photos on the account. Why/how is this?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1qxp13/eli5_how_the_hell_do_noncelebrities_get_20k150k/
{ "a_id": [ "cdhlciz", "cdhozce" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Usually they just use programs or bots to get huge amounts of followers, or follow-for-follow type deals. That or the few pictures they do post are so damn interesting they go massively viral (not likely).", "There are s...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
7551o2
why don’t women use/need aftershave after shaving their legs, pits and private parts?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7551o2/eli5_why_dont_women_useneed_aftershave_after/
{ "a_id": [ "do3jomf", "do3jpif", "do3n7gr" ], "score": [ 7, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "1) most people don't need aftershave\n\n2) most people also don't use products like facial cleaners on their legs. Face skin is different, and nobody really cares about miniscule acne on most other part...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
2i0mqa
the (legal, if there is one) difference between price "surging" vs. price "gouging.
I've been reading about Uber and it's price surging strategy and I think both sides have a point. Hotels and airplanes are allowed to charge different prices for busier times of the year, so why not other businesses? What is the legal definition of price gouging?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2i0mqa/eli5_the_legal_if_there_is_one_difference_between/
{ "a_id": [ "ckxpxbp", "ckxw5qn" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Generally, price gouging as a legal term is tied to emergency situations. So, charging $10 for a bottle of water solely because there's a big storm coming and everyone is freaking out is price gouging.", "I'll use Uber a...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
bezewk
why is it that mandarin and cantonese are considered dialects of chinese but spanish, portuguese, italian, and french are considered separate languages and not dialects of latin?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/bezewk/eli5_why_is_it_that_mandarin_and_cantonese_are/
{ "a_id": [ "el9ohwy", "el9uy5z", "el9w1e3", "el9xmhc", "el9xrli", "el9yxw6", "el9z37o", "el9zokz", "el9zplh", "ela11ck", "ela1j90", "ela22id", "ela32r2", "ela5pq2", "ela61hr", "ela7kxb", "ela8lem", "ela8qwj", "ela8sun", "ela8w3k", "e...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norwegian_language_conflict" ], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Written_Chinese" ], [], ...
1m1i07
why do some people/businesses sell their new or used items for a ridiculously high price on amazon? eg. $900 for a dry erase calendar.
I was browsing Amazon looking to buy a dry erase calendar board when I stumbled upon this: _URL_0_ It's a pretty plain looking dry erase calendar, but why do the 2 businesses selling it insist on selling it for such a high price? I've seen the same thing happen to books, too.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1m1i07/eli5_why_do_some_peoplebusinesses_sell_their_new/
{ "a_id": [ "cc4uyja", "cc4vqnl" ], "score": [ 11, 13 ], "text": [ "A lot of high volume sellers use automated scripts to post their items. These items apply some formula to get the price. Sometimes this formula makes mistakes.", "This sort of thing usually happens because of how som...
[]
[ "http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1617761044/ref=olp_product_details?ie=UTF8&me=&seller=" ]
[ [], [] ]
1lpyda
why did the australian aborigines never became a big civilization like other part of the world?
I was reading that Australians never developed an "iron age", "bronze age", or pottery, and the terms "palaeolithic" (old stone age) and "neolithic" (new stone age) are not used in Australia, because stone technology did not progress in the same way as the rest of the world. and was wondering why. source _URL_0_
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1lpyda/eli5_why_did_the_australian_aborigines_never/
{ "a_id": [ "cc1ln18", "cc1monq" ], "score": [ 7, 3 ], "text": [ "Empires don't just appear, they need resources. Big, domesticatable animals to eat and to plow fields, crops to feed people, metal to make tools and weapons out of, stone to build castles and palaces, other empires to trade...
[]
[ "http://www.aboriginalculture.com.au/introduction.shtml" ]
[ [], [] ]