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3dwr56
why have all the 'big' animals and creatures gone extinct? megalodon, the dire wolf? all these creatures were huge, top of the food chain predators but now don't exist? yet the sloth; slow, dumb and effectively defenceless has somehow managed to survive?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3dwr56/eli5_why_have_all_the_big_animals_and_creatures/
{ "a_id": [ "ct9e0jt", "ct9gpmd", "ct9h3wp" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "As per your example, a sloth survives on plants. It uses no energy because it virtually doesn't move. A sloth goes SO slow it actually can have moss grow on its fur. When predators hunt they go for soun...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
5okxao
why does the volume of water in a bowl not increase when you dissolve sugar in it?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5okxao/eli5_why_does_the_volume_of_water_in_a_bowl_not/
{ "a_id": [ "dck2ou8" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "The molecules in liquids have space between them. The molecules of sugar and water in solution are much more concentrated than the molecules of water alone. When sugar dissolves in water, the sugar molecules take up space between the water molecu...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
42abgm
coming from the philippines, how does a welfare state like sweden work and how is it that third world countries like us can't do the same?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/42abgm/eli5_coming_from_the_philippines_how_does_a/
{ "a_id": [ "cz8tdg1", "cz8tl21" ], "score": [ 6, 15 ], "text": [ "Obviously for any welfare state to survive, the people who work must produce enough resources to provide for the people who can't work, either because they are temporarily unable, or permanently disabled.\n\nAlthough there ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
20pvzn
if prostitution is so common and active on craigslist, why doesn't the police just arrest them all?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/20pvzn/eli5_if_prostitution_is_so_common_and_active_on/
{ "a_id": [ "cg5lu23", "cg5luib", "cg5lull", "cg5m2bp", "cg5m6pm", "cg5m8ok", "cg5m9q2", "cg5ms9q", "cg5n1lc", "cg5n8cd", "cg5ngcf", "cg5nmz3", "cg5nqry", "cg5oqmk", "cg5pgtw", "cg5q56o", "cg5q6yj", "cg5qlwn", "cg5qpud", "cg5qtir", "c...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/opinion/2013/03/20133187151912199.html", "http://archive.wtsp.com/news/photo-gallery.aspx?storyid=274168", "http://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/houston/article/Legislators-consider-lower-penalties-sp...
2cgbsx
what would happen if a person went through an airport security x-ray machine?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2cgbsx/eli5_what_would_happen_if_a_person_went_through/
{ "a_id": [ "cjf6bed", "cjf6jc5", "cjf75k1", "cjf86ho" ], "score": [ 6, 14, 6, 2 ], "text": [ "It wouldn't immediately harm you but you would be exposed to radiation that could have health impacts later in life.", "They would be x-rayed.", "They might get arrested b...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
6q0a31
how do theme parks have fewer accidents than carnivals?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6q0a31/eli5_how_do_theme_parks_have_fewer_accidents_than/
{ "a_id": [ "dktjvs1", "dktlb4j", "dktvvrw" ], "score": [ 12, 3, 3 ], "text": [ "Carnivals set up and take down their equipment to relocate every couple of weeks. Thus the chances of assembly error are much higher.\n\nTheme parks are usually extremely well funded, as one can cost $...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
ajjn8a
the difference between poetic justice and irony
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ajjn8a/eli5_the_difference_between_poetic_justice_and/
{ "a_id": [ "eew2xkc", "eew55w2", "eex73cb" ], "score": [ 12, 25, 2 ], "text": [ "Irony: when an event is dramatically opposite of what one would expect or imagine.\n\nPoetic justice: when a person suffers the same consequence they have caused for others, or a consequence that seem...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
1tba8z
how was edward snowden able to travel without a passport?
I've been reading a post about [how Edward Snowden was able to travel without a passport](_URL_0_), which I'm afraid wasn't clear enough to me - legalese :( The accepted answer there says that he was fine until he travelled to a country which acknowledges his passport is revoked. But my understanding is that he was...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1tba8z/eli5_how_was_edward_snowden_able_to_travel/
{ "a_id": [ "ce67whq" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "When he initially left it wasn't a problem. Now the fact that he's in country X means that they are offering him asylum. So they have accepted him regardless of his no passport or citizenship status. He has to stay in said country until another c...
[]
[ "http://travel.stackexchange.com/q/18394/101" ]
[ [] ]
5m8c5b
how do enzyme supplements retain functionality after being broken down in the digestive tract?
Hi, I'm a big skeptic regarding supplements and I've always been told that Coq10 and other enzymes will boost my immunity and cure any number of symptoms. My question is that if these supplements are proteins would they not be broken down in the stomach, losing their functionality? Perhaps they're packaged in a way to ...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5m8c5b/eli5_how_do_enzyme_supplements_retain/
{ "a_id": [ "dc1nsbg" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "You're right, in a way. Enzymes are proteins, and your digestive tract is really good at destroying enzymes and breaking them down to their component amino acids.\n\nBut, Coq10 is not an enzyme. It is a co-enzyme, or put a different way, it is ...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a9/Unibuinone.svg" ] ]
ecil9z
how do they give 3d printed organs functionality?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ecil9z/eli5_how_do_they_give_3d_printed_organs/
{ "a_id": [ "fbblvi2" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "The organ printing is just a framework around which they can then grow the cells an \"organ skeleton\" if you will." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
1r3lj0
how do such simple looking grooves in vinyl records express such a wide-ranging amount of sound?
This always confuses me every time I play a record.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1r3lj0/eli5_how_do_such_simple_looking_grooves_in_vinyl/
{ "a_id": [ "cdj88yh" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "They're really not that simple. If you look at a groove under a microscope it has a complicated zigzag pattern. The shape of the Zigzag makes the needle on the player wiggle, which is turned into an electrical signal that becomes the sound you he...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
7co6e0
how are ip addresses allocated when using mobile data such as 3g/4g?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7co6e0/eli5_how_are_ip_addresses_allocated_when_using/
{ "a_id": [ "dprb6tv", "dprbk4x" ], "score": [ 9, 5 ], "text": [ "Same way, it's still a network of routers and switches. Think of the cell towers and 4g antennae as the wireless access point. Your pc and cell phone access the same isp infrastructure after a certain point.", "Still D...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
55gyyr
how does a $916m loss, in a single year, allow someone to avoid paying taxes for the following 18 years?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/55gyyr/eli5_how_does_a_916m_loss_in_a_single_year_allow/
{ "a_id": [ "d8agzug", "d8ahbjc", "d8ahmhr", "d8ahsfk" ], "score": [ 56, 78, 7, 7 ], "text": [ "Because the tax code tries not to penalize people for losses. \n\nThe basic idea of taxation in the U.S. is that you have two numbers at the core: gross income and taxable income...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://www.calcpa.org/public-resources/ask-a-cpa/small-business-accounting-and-operations/operating-losses/can-sole-proprietors-carry-forward-losses-for-20-years" ], [], [], [] ]
29rjv4
how does world cup soccer generate revenue for espn or other television broadcasters if there are no commercials?
I see that there's advertising all over the field, but who gets that money? Some of those brands and products are not even available in some countries. What is the broadcast revenue model?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/29rjv4/eli5_how_does_world_cup_soccer_generate_revenue/
{ "a_id": [ "cinslh0", "cint55d" ], "score": [ 2, 3 ], "text": [ "They make a lot of money in halftime and post-game shows. They also get the opportunity to plug upcoming shows which will drive some viewers to their other programming. Soccer isn't as lucrative in broadcast ads as, say, foo...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2q0ikv
how do coaxial cables transmit so much data with only one pin?
That is 1080i/30 fps.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2q0ikv/eli5_how_do_coaxial_cables_transmit_so_much_data/
{ "a_id": [ "cn1pcbt", "cn1rjxl", "cn1xgtz" ], "score": [ 4, 3, 6 ], "text": [ "each bit takes up a really small amount of time. So a lot gets through really fast.", "The overwhelming majority of data communication is done serially (with only one data line). As long as you can...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
c1rtu2
why is there a big brother figure being mentioned and who or what is it referring to?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/c1rtu2/eli5_why_is_there_a_big_brother_figure_being/
{ "a_id": [ "erf3wz3", "erf3yzp", "erf43yd", "erf4ai6", "erf5alp", "erf7z8w" ], "score": [ 6, 9, 5, 7, 6, 3 ], "text": [ "“Big brother” usually refers to an oppressive government watching everything you say/do through spying, essentially, so they can nail yo...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Big_Brother_(Nineteen_Eighty-Four)" ], [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nineteen_Eighty-Four" ], [], [] ]
2jjraj
differentiating between something being artificial intelligence and non-ai?
I'm doing an essay in class, and have decided to do AI. I understand it is the creation of a system which imitates human-like acitons. For instance: Google maps (finding locations when doing wrong turns) Siri (voice recognition) - Are these Artificial Intelligence? Google self-driving car.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2jjraj/eli5_differentiating_between_something_being/
{ "a_id": [ "clcgacp" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "What you're describing is called the Turing test. Named after Alan Turing. You can easily write an entire essay on this test alone. Simply put, it is the test that decides that a machine is AI or not, by whether it can fool people into thinking i...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turing_test" ] ]
5fkrms
do anti-viruses actually work and how?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5fkrms/eli5_do_antiviruses_actually_work_and_how/
{ "a_id": [ "dakysbs", "dakyte8", "dakyysp" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "They do! I work for a company that make an anvirus program, among a few other utilities.\n\nThere's two ways to virus hunt, fingerprints and heuristics.\n\n**fingerprints** - there's a big database that...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
1p7ds0
why is it that after you had a cough drop, cold water feels even colder when drinking?
ELI5: Why is it that after you had a cough drop, cold water feels even colder when drinking?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1p7ds0/eli5_why_is_it_that_after_you_had_a_cough_drop/
{ "a_id": [ "cczhz02" ], "score": [ 12 ], "text": [ "It's because of the menthol in the cough drop. A protein called TRPM8 regulates the movement of ions across the membranes of cells, and reacts to temperature, sending a signal to your brain telling you that it's cold. For some reason we don't fu...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
dxqilq
how do people have emergency surgery without aspirating?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dxqilq/eli5_how_do_people_have_emergency_surgery_without/
{ "a_id": [ "f7urdhc", "f7vdvl0" ], "score": [ 2, 5 ], "text": [ "They have endotracheal tubes in their tracheas, which create a seal to prevent it. A balloon is inflated which blocks the lungs off.", "Aspirating isn't a guarantee, it is just a higher risk when people have eaten relati...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1rz6gj
will wikipedia in danger and why should/shouldn't we help them?
Visit Wikipedia today and saw this message _URL_0_
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1rz6gj/eli5will_wikipedia_in_danger_and_why/
{ "a_id": [ "cdscutu", "cdscvz4" ], "score": [ 4, 3 ], "text": [ "They are always growing, but do not use ads to make money. This basically means that their only source of income is donations, which they use to pay for programmers, server hosting, etc.\n\nIf they don't get enough money the...
[]
[ "http://i.imgur.com/ExPx9ha.jpg" ]
[ [], [] ]
2qz5ab
why do music services charge extra to play music on mobile devices, but not laptops? (e.g. spotify and pandora)
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2qz5ab/eli5_why_do_music_services_charge_extra_to_play/
{ "a_id": [ "cnax3z7", "cnax4k1" ], "score": [ 4, 2 ], "text": [ "Probably because if you could access them on portable devices, you wouldn't ever need to pay for music and therefore never invest in iPods/mp3 players.", "Companies need to give people a \"taste\" of what they offer, so ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
9ya19v
why are soy beans treated like special beans?
Why is there a conspiracy theory that soy beans feminize you or make you trans? Is there a reason people became fixated on soy beans? Or why people like info wars people are convinced they're a conspiracy? Edit: Soy beans are very nutritious having a large amount of protein, minerals, and their oil not having choleste...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9ya19v/eli5_why_are_soy_beans_treated_like_special_beans/
{ "a_id": [ "ea075ti", "ea0adb5", "ea13so5" ], "score": [ 4, 5, 2 ], "text": [ "I don't know about the vitamin content but soy really does have far more protein than just about any other vegetable. When we test them they are typically at 32%-35% protein. They are also about 30% oil...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/soy/" ], [] ]
1ghepa
how does carfax contain every detail about a car?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1ghepa/how_does_carfax_contain_every_detail_about_a_car/
{ "a_id": [ "cakaf0v" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "When you take a car in for repairs, the owner of the shop will put details into the car files. " ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
5filjm
how can a knife be sharp enough to cut to the touch or without even being felt?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5filjm/eli5_how_can_a_knife_be_sharp_enough_to_cut_to/
{ "a_id": [ "dakgjbb", "dakukhz" ], "score": [ 15, 4 ], "text": [ "Your skin is filled with nerves to detect damages. If a nerve cell is damaged it will tell the brain about it. But cells are actually bigger then people imagine. And sharp knifes have a very thin edge. Most microscopes can ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2aremi
how is it that japanese have low obesity rates when they have ramen, sushi rolls and other high carb foods?
Same with french/italians with their baguettes and pastas
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2aremi/eli5_how_is_it_that_japanese_have_low_obesity/
{ "a_id": [ "cixzgtz", "cixzi6m", "cixzjc3", "cixzn8a", "ciy0lyy", "ciy13zc", "ciy1c6x", "ciy2dul" ], "score": [ 2, 7, 36, 17, 3, 12, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Culture, Japanese would sit there and badger you for eating too much.", "They don't e...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
b2505l
how does the iss never run out of fresh air to breathe ?
Since space has no air in it how can astronauts breathe fresh air inside the ISS? Edit: Thanks anonymous redditor for the gold!
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/b2505l/eli5_how_does_the_iss_never_run_out_of_fresh_air/
{ "a_id": [ "eiq861e", "eiq998j", "eiqf2zz", "eiqhuh5", "eiqi9vf", "eiqjlvx", "eiqkk89", "eiqqpnh", "eir1eym", "eir2p3h" ], "score": [ 6403, 219, 2368, 27, 15, 6604, 17, 8, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Electrolysis of water. Water is sp...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [ "https://space.stackexchange.com/questions/30269/does-iss-get-a-surplus-of-oxygen-or-water#comment90086_30269", "NASA.org", "https://science.howstuffworks.com/international-space-station2.htm", "https://www.nasa.gov/centers/johnson/home/index.html", "https://www.n...
btryxw
where does the idea/synonym of being "hot" as being beautiful/handsome come from?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/btryxw/eli5_where_does_the_ideasynonym_of_being_hot_as/
{ "a_id": [ "ep1s07o" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "it comes from feeling flushed, when blood rises to the surface. your face and maybe neck will turn red, you will feel warm, maybe a little lightheaded." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
5jxgkh
how do airlines make a profit?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5jxgkh/eli5_how_do_airlines_make_a_profit/
{ "a_id": [ "dbjoii3" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "The short answer is that the airlines are _exceptionally_ good at price discrimination.\n\nThe longer answer is that not everyone pays the same price for the tickets they have. This is very obvious when you think about business class vs. coach -...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
7t5nab
why do animals make/understand eye contact if most of them don’t have a wide array of facial expressions and rely more on body language?
EDIT: I got the answer I was looking for but if you think you have a better one be my guest :)
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7t5nab/eli5_why_do_animals_makeunderstand_eye_contact_if/
{ "a_id": [ "dta3aok", "dtab8nr", "dtalacr", "dtap3ds", "dtarzup", "dtatryk" ], "score": [ 62, 24, 6, 25, 8, 3 ], "text": [ "Lots of animals use sight as an important tool. For instance, hunting. As such, being aware that something is looking at you can be i...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
2b5brh
why does touching a really soft blanket or towel feel so good?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2b5brh/eli5_why_does_touching_a_really_soft_blanket_or/
{ "a_id": [ "cj20lgu", "cj22hqi" ], "score": [ 3, 9 ], "text": [ "Well, cats do that kneading thing on soft materials because it reminds them of them stimulating their mother's breast and receiving sustenance and comfort from the milk. \n\nMaybe humans also like it cause it reminds them of...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_grooming" ] ]
4hngs7
if a planet or planets have been found 40 light years away, how do we know they are habitable?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4hngs7/eli5_if_a_planet_or_planets_have_been_found_40/
{ "a_id": [ "d2r0uu2", "d2r1ljp" ], "score": [ 6, 3 ], "text": [ "We don't know if they're habitable. We can determine what compounds make up the atmosphere and roughly how far away it is from its star, but habitable is a more difficult determination involving other factors.", "At this...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
32nr5s
what are the odd keys on the keyboard used for - sysrq, scroll lock, pause break
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/32nr5s/eli5_what_are_the_odd_keys_on_the_keyboard_used/
{ "a_id": [ "cqcwwub", "cqcwx6n", "cqcx2b6" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 4 ], "text": [ "Historical reasons. They were there for decades and became a part of the standard keyboard design. Keyboards with a non standard design will often not have these keys.", "Scroll lock and Pause break...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
1riiqz
what are brain tumors and are they 100% deadly?
I have read some things about brain cancer but I'm having trouble understanding all the science lingo...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1riiqz/eli5_what_are_brain_tumors_and_are_they_100_deadly/
{ "a_id": [ "cdnkyzc", "cdnl16e", "cdnlbnm" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "I'm no Oncologist but I can tell you that, like any other caner, they're not all deadly.", "tumors are uncontrolled growths that appear in parts of the body. They are not all cancerous (I think) and...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
k8sc3
why ron paul wins most straw polls and online polls, yet he is not considered a serious contender for the gop.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/k8sc3/eli5_why_ron_paul_wins_most_straw_polls_and/
{ "a_id": [ "c2ice6m", "c2icomk", "c2icou1", "c2icwtp", "c2icx5z", "c2icz3t", "c2id3y1", "c2ide7q", "c2idjc8", "c2idpyd", "c2iduax", "c2idvxb", "c2idwbf", "c2idygv", "c2ie8pb", "c2iea89", "c2iedsw", "c2iezd8", "c2if7vw", "c2ig047", "c...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
4ybc6p
how can so much data be transported between america & europe?
Every major tech company has their servers in the US, and if users from Europe access those servers, the data has to go through a wire in the Atlantic. But that must sum up to several GBps. How is that possible?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4ybc6p/eli5_how_can_so_much_data_be_transported_between/
{ "a_id": [ "d6meb02", "d6megg7", "d6mesr2", "d6meuxq", "d6mfpbt", "d6mgwdl" ], "score": [ 9, 3, 2, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Latest fiber optic cables across the Atlantic can handle 3.2 Tbps. Signals can be time and frequency multiplexed, and as faster switches...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "m.mentalfloss.com/article.php?id=60150" ], [], [ "http://s1.ibtimes.com/sites/www.ibtimes.com/files/styles/embed/public/2014/03/05/underwater-cable.png", "http://www.submarinecablemap.com/" ], [], [] ]
2mf3oo
why we use the letters x and n the most in algebra
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2mf3oo/eli5_why_we_use_the_letters_x_and_n_the_most_in/
{ "a_id": [ "cm3lt78", "cm3oom3" ], "score": [ 10, 2 ], "text": [ "\"X\" is similar to the symbol for \"thing\" or \"object\" in Arabic, the language in which the rules of Algebra were first expressed. When translated the symbol became X because it was good enough for the purpose.", "n...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
bpzz7d
why can't we artificially make plastic decompose faster?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/bpzz7d/eli5_why_cant_we_artificially_make_plastic/
{ "a_id": [ "eo0azqs", "eo0jgtv" ], "score": [ 11, 2 ], "text": [ "Decomposition happens when something eats the thing that is decomposing. Ie. wood decomposes because fungi and bacteria are literally eating and digesting the wood.\n\nYou can accelerate decomposition by improving condition...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
328esk
why are you the last to notice when you smell bad, but the first to notice when you look bad?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/328esk/eli5_why_are_you_the_last_to_notice_when_you/
{ "a_id": [ "cq8vute" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Humans have a biological tendency to no longer detect an odor when we have been exposed to it for a long period of time. This is called [olfactory fatigue](_URL_0_)\n\nThis means we tend not to notice the gradual onset of our own body odour becau...
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[]
[ [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olfactory_fatigue" ] ]
4zk9hl
why do banks provide loans and mortgages when they could make more money investing into index funds that yield a greater apr?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4zk9hl/eli5_why_do_banks_provide_loans_and_mortgages/
{ "a_id": [ "d6whjtz", "d6whm1d", "d6wkswm" ], "score": [ 5, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Diversification.\n\nIndex funds sometimes crash. Just because they have been yielding greater returns, doesnt mean they always will.\n\nLoans are much safer investments for the bank and earn them much m...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
7mnlb0
why does boiling water turn to snow when thrown in extreme cold temperatures and cold water doesn't?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7mnlb0/eli5_why_does_boiling_water_turn_to_snow_when/
{ "a_id": [ "drva5vj" ], "score": [ 15 ], "text": [ "[This](_URL_0_) is a pretty decent explanation of it. Basically, the water isn't actually turning into snow, but evaporating and then very quickly condensing into a cloud. \n\nNear-boiling water is very near to its evaporation point. When you t...
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[]
[ [ "http://thevane.gawker.com/the-science-behind-turning-boiling-water-into-snow-on-1678181346" ] ]
2rnbgw
in light of the murders of the cartoonists, why do followers of islams, moderate and otherwise, not just move to an islamic oriented country instead of what seems like an imposition of their own beliefs to the countries they move to?
Disclosure - I am an atheist and thoroughly believe that there is no higher power. That we as people control what we do, and are responsible for our own actions. After the appalling death threats on a Danish cartoonist in 2005 and this far more disgusting response, why does there not seem to be so much backlash from t...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2rnbgw/eli5_in_light_of_the_murders_of_the_cartoonists/
{ "a_id": [ "cnhi2gh", "cnhjqoe", "cnhl1eo", "cnhl2dk", "cnhprpt", "cnhynoi", "cnhyxks", "cni1ebr" ], "score": [ 5, 2, 3, 3, 6, 3, 5, 3 ], "text": [ " > Lastly, why does there seem to be so many pro-lifers who feel it a necessity to tell oth...
[]
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
67zrcg
if diabetics have problems when their blood sugar is high, why is a diabetic episode lessened by consumption of more sugar? (candy or juice)?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/67zrcg/eli5_if_diabetics_have_problems_when_their_blood/
{ "a_id": [ "dguicid", "dguih6r" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "It's actually a problem if their sugar gets too high *or* too low; the situation you're thinking of is one in one someone needs to *very* rapidly raise their blood sugar. Most diabetics have candy, juice, or glucose syrup in...
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[]
[ [], [] ]
3xqlq3
why does "won't" need an apostrophe when it comes from "will" and "not"?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3xqlq3/eli5_why_does_wont_need_an_apostrophe_when_it/
{ "a_id": [ "cy6xaem", "cy6xwy7" ], "score": [ 2, 5 ], "text": [ "It actually does. \n\n\"Won't\" is a contraction of \"will not.\" \n\n\"Wont\" is an entirely separate word, meaning something along the lines of \"in the habit of\" or \"customarily.\" You hear it in the phrase \"as they ar...
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[]
[ [], [ "https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/search?restrict_sr=on&sort=relevance&t=all&q=won%27t%20will%20not" ] ]
34j8x8
why do sitting in the passenger sit in a car for a couple of hours is terribly exhausting, while sitting the same amount of time in the office/at home isn't?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/34j8x8/eli5_why_do_sitting_in_the_passenger_sit_in_a_car/
{ "a_id": [ "cqv8jmy", "cqvbis4" ], "score": [ 7, 2 ], "text": [ "You are actually doing work riding in a car. Remember how sitting on an exercise ball is supposed to be a workout you don't notice because you're constantly making small muscular corrections to stay in place? You are making ...
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[]
[ [], [] ]
62i2l4
why do tire manufacturers/distributors offer tire rebates instead of including the discount into the price right away?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/62i2l4/eli5_why_do_tire_manufacturersdistributors_offer/
{ "a_id": [ "dfmpv6s", "dfmpyrj", "dfmqge5" ], "score": [ 7, 2, 4 ], "text": [ "Because you'll still think of the price as discounted but not all people will actually bother getting the rebate", "I know that Costco will offer the price after rebate at time of sale, I'm unsure i...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
3mmoqn
why is el chapo popular among young mexicans?
I've been searching around for the answer to this question for a while, and all I get are vague answers. I teach a lot of immigrant kids, and they always say "free Chapo" and say that he is a good person. According to them he only kills bad people, which is obviously not true. I want to be able to have a deeper discuss...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3mmoqn/eli5_why_is_el_chapo_popular_among_young_mexicans/
{ "a_id": [ "cvgal5l" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "If you are as poor as them and all you see is death the one person who sheds light in their shit existence is the drug dealer. He has money,women,power, a brotherhood who helped him escape prison and he thinks his nose at authority. The church on...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
5by6gw
why are potato chips so addicting?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5by6gw/eli5_why_are_potato_chips_so_addicting/
{ "a_id": [ "d9s7um0" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "Evolutionarily speaking, not long ago energy-rich foods (like starches and fats, as well as sugars) and some particular nutrients (namely salt) were difficult to acquire in large quantities, so humans (and many other animals) quickly adapted a pr...
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[]
[ [] ]
3y7c8d
do we always "gain" knowledge as we grow, or do we replace older knowledge with new?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3y7c8d/eli5_do_we_always_gain_knowledge_as_we_grow_or_do/
{ "a_id": [ "cyb4n85" ], "score": [ 8 ], "text": [ "Quick. Tell me what happened on your 6th birthday, without cheating, asking your parents, or looking at video footage?\n\nOk, what about your 15th? Can you tell me anything about that? Maybe a bit, but I bet it's blurry and you had to think prett...
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[]
[ [] ]
33qo9e
what is amazon looking for when they ask these ridiculous questions?
_URL_0_ I never answer them. I generally don't like that amazon wants information about me. Normally these questions are less odd and more pointed at my demographics and interests. I can't see why... Well, Unless they saw I just watched interstellar on my family's account? Does Amazon do shit like that? If so, I fin...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/33qo9e/eli5_what_is_amazon_looking_for_when_they_ask/
{ "a_id": [ "cqngkc8", "cqnj7j5" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "I saw the same question earlier today.\nEither we have similar profiles (in regard to what we browse and buy on Amazon), or this was pushed to all users rather than based on profile-specific characteristics.\n\nI answered it...
[]
[ "http://imgur.com/oMyFVW4" ]
[ [], [] ]
2rvz47
how does the american government actually work? i've been watching house of cards and congress seems to be made up of democrats and republicans? what does each party stand for, and how does any bill get passed if two opposing parties work together?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2rvz47/eli5_how_does_the_american_government_actually/
{ "a_id": [ "cnjsd3f", "cnjv3h3" ], "score": [ 8, 3 ], "text": [ "Though each party has a major umbrella-feel to them, not all that you read about each party classifies every one of its members. You can have conservative Democrats, just as you can have liberal Republicans.. Here's the over...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://puu.sh/eibCl/a15810ded3.jpg" ], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_Coalition_of_America", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Civil_Rights_Act_of_1964", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Society" ] ]
1m2yo1
why do i hear the ocean in a conch?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1m2yo1/eli5_why_do_i_hear_the_ocean_in_a_conch/
{ "a_id": [ "cc59x0a", "cc5atxw" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "I've heard it's the blood flow in your ears.... ? Maybe lol", "It forms a 'bubble' around your ear, which reflects every little bit of sound. What you are hearing is actually just white noise amplified straight into your...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2qhhcv
if front page content on reddit is solely determined on upvotes, what is preventing groups like anonymous from spamming threads to the top?
In (albeit, very loosely) to the recent attacks on Sony and Microsoft, how is this website not flooded with spam threads mysteriously floating to the top of popular subreddits? It's not like there are capchas required to upvote or downvote. You don't even need to register to vote. What is preventing users (such as ag...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2qhhcv/eli5_if_front_page_content_on_reddit_is_solely/
{ "a_id": [ "cn65yo8", "cn6aytv" ], "score": [ 10, 3 ], "text": [ "You do need to register to vote, so that's a misconception.\n\nBut popular subreddits are highly moderated, so a mod would quickly remove such a spam thread, in ELI5 for example we remove dozens of posts everyday.\n\nReddit...
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[]
[ [], [] ]
523yu4
how did diamonds, gold and silver become valuable? is it just because it's rare?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/523yu4/eli5_how_did_diamonds_gold_and_silver_become/
{ "a_id": [ "d7h3xa9" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Yes, you are correct!\n\nThey have been valued since ancient times for their rarity, relatively indestructible nature, and aesthetically pleasing qualities.\n\nThey are also impossible(or more recently just difficult) to recreate." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
387mi4
why is islam the fastest growing religion in uk ?
Why are people converting. The Church is declining. Why is it so ?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/387mi4/eli5_why_is_islam_the_fastest_growing_religion_in/
{ "a_id": [ "crsx39m", "crsx89r", "crsxeqi", "crsxg7y", "crt1cqy" ], "score": [ 6, 11, 12, 29, 20 ], "text": [ "Christianity isn't growing because it's pretty much saturated. Everyone that was going to be Christian already is. So as people are exposed to a \"new\"...
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[]
[ [], [ "http://blogs.channel4.com/factcheck/factcheck-will-britain-have-a-muslim-majority-by-2050/13690" ], [], [ "http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/rel/migration1/migration-statistics-quarterly-report/february-2015/stb-msqr-feb-2015.html#tab-2--Immigration-to-the-UK" ], [ "https://xkcd.com/1102/" ...
3uogpy
why do your ears feel stuffed/hurt when your nose is stuffed?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3uogpy/eli5_why_do_your_ears_feel_stuffedhurt_when_your/
{ "a_id": [ "cxghuj5" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "i believe its because there are connective pipes between the nose and ears for pressure release and when the nose is blocked the ears can't regulate the pressure as well so the high pressure is what causes that uncomfortable feeling" ] }
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[]
[ [] ]
buw6l0
can a fat person die of starvation, or does the body *always* eat up its fat stores before starving?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/buw6l0/eli5_can_a_fat_person_die_of_starvation_or_does/
{ "a_id": [ "epifu0r", "epijqwc", "epipa0d", "epj09qs", "epj1s60", "epj63tw", "epjfgnh", "epjgbcy" ], "score": [ 253, 29, 4, 3, 9, 4, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Depends on your definition of starvation. \n\nThe body would not technically starve until...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9665093" ], [], [], [ "https://thoughtcatalog.com/dr-chet-williams/2014/06/this-450-pound-man-fasted-for-over-a-year-and-he-lost-more-than-half-his-weight/" ], [], [], [] ]
2udtgb
why are there juice bottles and fruit snacks labeled with serving sizes of 100% daily value of vitamin c?
Wouldn't that make the consumtion of 2 or more serving sizes (packs of fruit snacks) be dangerous for your health?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2udtgb/eli5_why_are_there_juice_bottles_and_fruit_snacks/
{ "a_id": [ "co7hu1f", "co7inle" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Well it's a recommended serving size, and minimum intake daily value of vitamin C, having more is only good for you until a certain point. They do this to make it more appealing. Vitamin C isn't dangerous unless you get an i...
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[]
[ [], [] ]
z6u5q
why does "shaking" a picture make it look 3d?
Here's what I mean. _URL_0_ I've seen a bunch of these where the photo "shakes" back and forth (or so it seems) and it looks 3D. I don't get how that works. Could someone explain?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/z6u5q/eli5_why_does_shaking_a_picture_make_it_look_3d/
{ "a_id": [ "c61ypv5", "c61ysyj", "c61yu5c", "c61ywmt" ], "score": [ 2, 3, 7, 3 ], "text": [ "i've been staring at those pictures for the last 15 minutes, i'm just gonna sit here and wait for someone to answer this.", "It don't think it's just shaking. I think it's that...
[]
[ "http://imgur.com/a/BwrKk" ]
[ [], [], [], [ "http://instantsolve.net/anaglyph/" ] ]
a11mh5
why is it that our vision isn’t effected that much when our eyes are wide open versus squinting?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/a11mh5/eli5_why_is_it_that_our_vision_isnt_effected_that/
{ "a_id": [ "eam3422" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "I could be wrong but i'd say it's because you're not exposing any more of your pupil or iris by widening them whereas when you squint you obscure your pupil and iris" ] }
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[ [] ]
2aa5uq
what is the tao and how do i find it?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2aa5uq/eli5_what_is_the_tao_and_how_do_i_find_it/
{ "a_id": [ "ciszwby" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "\"The Tao that can be named, is not the true Tao\" Lao Tzu, from the 'Tao Te Ching'\n\nIt's basically the highest state of transcendence and peace, but also more than that. The Tao Te Ching speaks of equality, acceptance of things, and embracing ...
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[]
[ [] ]
7x9axq
how can the scientists who photographed a single atom be sure it is only one, and how did they get it?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7x9axq/eli5_how_can_the_scientists_who_photographed_a/
{ "a_id": [ "du6fddj" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "[In the center of the picture, a small bright dot is visible – a single positively-charged strontium atom. It is held nearly motionless by electric fields emanating from the metal electrodes surrounding it. […] When illuminated by a laser of the ...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://petapixel.com/2018/02/12/picture-single-atom-wins-science-photo-contest/" ] ]
26i2b8
why when we look at another human we instantly look at their eyes?
Ive noticed that when we look at someone, no matter how fast we are moving relative to them, we nearly always look straight at their eyes and not their nose or their mouth etc. Why is this?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/26i2b8/eli5why_when_we_look_at_another_human_we/
{ "a_id": [ "chr9kwa", "chr9npq", "chra4z7", "chrc3xw", "chrcanq", "chrcp09" ], "score": [ 2, 13, 5, 5, 13, 2 ], "text": [ "This is not necessarily true in all cultures. In fact even in many animals long drawn eye contact is a dominance quality. ", "The ...
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
43fjmw
why does it seem like guerrilla warfare is the only type of warfare nowadays?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/43fjmw/eli5_why_does_it_seem_like_guerrilla_warfare_is/
{ "a_id": [ "czhtoyc", "czhtpi6", "czhuegj", "czhz9f5" ], "score": [ 6, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "A) It's not. None of the western powers practice it for the majority of the time. \n\nB) Because that's the only option small militias have. Ever tried mounting a frontal assault o...
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
fakx14
why is it controversial to remove inactive voters from voter rolls?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/fakx14/eli5_why_is_it_controversial_to_remove_inactive/
{ "a_id": [ "fiyrqap", "fiysmya" ], "score": [ 7, 2 ], "text": [ "Because the whole notion of being an \"active voter\" is somewhat absurd. Anyone is an active voter the moment they go to a polling place to vote. Having to maintain your presence on some registry makes no sense, so when peo...
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[ [], [] ]
29myx9
why don't we ever get new swear words?
It's been asked before why swear words originated and how come they're so offensive for being just words. But why don't we ever seem to get any brand-new ones that are labeled offensive enough for censorship? There are always variants -- words containing pre-existing swear words, but it never seems like we add new one...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/29myx9/eli5_why_dont_we_ever_get_new_swear_words/
{ "a_id": [ "cimhs7h", "cimhtma", "cimhwrn", "cimi0do", "cimi314", "cimi3n0", "cimi516", "cimi6ek", "cimicov", "cimizcc", "cimj7me", "cimja5l", "cimjdza", "cimjnbk", "cimjo05", "cimjo4c", "cimk1w1", "cimk6lf", "cimkjjs", "cimkk4k", "c...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [ "http://www.slate.com/articles/podcasts/lexicon_valley/2013/06/lexicon_valley_on_profanity_and_obscenity_with_holy_shit_a_brief_history.html" ], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Campaign_for_\"santorum\"_ne...
9or6y6
what is the picture plane (in terms of painting)?
and how can it be tipped? and what does that even mean
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9or6y6/eli5_what_is_the_picture_plane_in_terms_of/
{ "a_id": [ "e7w4wqc", "e7w6py0" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Imagine a sheet of glass held up vertically between you and the subject being painted. That can be thought of as the \"picture plane\", you are painting what is projected onto that sheet and not trying to somehow produce dep...
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[]
[ [], [] ]
4l8qii
why is venus atmosphere so hostile compared to earth or even mars?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4l8qii/eli5_why_is_venus_atmosphere_so_hostile_compared/
{ "a_id": [ "d3lbnq2" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "Venus just has more of it. It's atmosphere isn't composed of anything weird, it is just very thick. Being composed primarily of carbon dioxide this creates a greenhouse effect where heat is kept for long periods and builds up. Combine that wit...
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[ [] ]
309pur
why is our perception of time changes to our emotion, like when we're sad time slows down or when we're happy time flies.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/309pur/eli5_why_is_our_perception_of_time_changes_to_our/
{ "a_id": [ "cpqdzv7" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "This one has been asked a few times, but it's tough to find the old posts, so here goes my explanation:\n\nWhen you're enjoying yourself, you don't pay attention to time. Your attention is focused on whatever you're doing that you're enjoying so ...
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[ [] ]
1re1i1
why does putting lemon/ lime juice on fruit keep it from browning?
I've always wondered why lemon juice slows the browning of fruits (apples, avocados). If this had something do do with the surface being exposed to air, wouldn't any type of liquid/ solid barrier work? Thanks!
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1re1i1/eli5_why_does_putting_lemon_lime_juice_on_fruit/
{ "a_id": [ "cdmavl1", "cdmedpk", "cdmlp58" ], "score": [ 13, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Oxygen reacts with a chemical (polyphenol oxidase) in plants, this reaction leaves the fruit brown (kind of like rusting). Lemons and other acidic fruits have ascorbic acid which also reacts with oxyge...
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[ [], [], [] ]
59b0lf
underwater welding and how it doesn't kill you
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/59b0lf/eli5underwater_welding_and_how_it_doesnt_kill_you/
{ "a_id": [ "d96zsml" ], "score": [ 11 ], "text": [ "They use a very low positive current through the metal to be welded, and a high negative charge through the welding tool. As seawater leans towards being electronegative, it has a lot of trouble transferring the current through the water. The po...
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[ [] ]
tyyzo
how did fb's drop in stock price actually affect the company?
From what I understand, the company got their money at the IPO, right? So what does it matter for FB that the stock price dropped. Along the same vein, why do companies care what their stock price is? Is it just to make value for employee compensation?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/tyyzo/eli5_how_did_fbs_drop_in_stock_price_actually/
{ "a_id": [ "c4qx5id", "c4r0dfj" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "It did't affect FB. It affected the investors who purchased the stock on opening day and now have lost value in those shares. The market is saying FB may be overvalued and there are concerns about their future revenue.", ...
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[]
[ [], [] ]
3p9d02
are good looks related to health and the health of the offsprings?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3p9d02/eli5_are_good_looks_related_to_health_and_the/
{ "a_id": [ "cw49pwt" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "On average, yes, though there's not necessarily any connection in any specific instance.\n\nIt is believed that the human preference for symmetrical faces, for example, is because it shows a better genetic inheritance and/or a better nourished/nu...
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[ [] ]
dnwoms
why did un not do anything about apartheid in south africa
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dnwoms/eli5_why_did_un_not_do_anything_about_apartheid/
{ "a_id": [ "f5gxtxb" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "The UN doesn't really have any power. It is not like a government.\n\nThe UN is a place where all the worlds governments get together to talk. If they all (or at least enough of the major players) agree than that is wrapped up in a label that say...
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[ [] ]
74ktkw
if you need the highest level of security clearance to access one compartment of information who sorts the information into compartments?
If there is a reason to let people only know information in one compartment someone has to be above that level of access to make that decision
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/74ktkw/eli5_if_you_need_the_highest_level_of_security/
{ "a_id": [ "dnz3q1z", "dnz3x4e", "dnz87hu" ], "score": [ 5, 14, 7 ], "text": [ "Organizations have classification guides that outlines what classification a piece of information should be and has a classifying authority to make formal decisions about classification.", "The peo...
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[]
[ [], [], [] ]
4ckd09
how to film the same actor doing different things.
So I was watching the recent episode of Flash where there are two Barry Allens at the same time and I decided its about time I learnt how it's done. I know the basic method of filming with the camera in the same position and masking out parts but I dont think this method would work in something this complex. Please d...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4ckd09/eli5_how_to_film_the_same_actor_doing_different/
{ "a_id": [ "d1ixugr" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "The simplest way is exactly what you described, which has been used in many films in the past. You can even make the camera move, by recording its movement in the first shot and then making it move the exact same way for the second shot.\n\nAnoth...
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2ri9r2
if i was sitting on a train at the speed of light and i hold up a mirror in front of me. what would i see on the mirror and why? surely the light coming from you would have to go faster than the speed of light to reach the mirror?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2ri9r2/eli5_if_i_was_sitting_on_a_train_at_the_speed_of/
{ "a_id": [ "cng37wj", "cng55fb" ], "score": [ 5, 4 ], "text": [ "You can't travel the speed of light, so it automatically invalidates your question.\n\nChanging the question a little bit so that you're going almost but not quite (ie 99.999999%) the speed of light, everything inside the tr...
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57v7jv
; the alt-right
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/57v7jv/eli5_the_altright/
{ "a_id": [ "d8v8z2h", "d8v9jfs", "d8vcoze" ], "score": [ 4, 2, 6 ], "text": [ "The Alt-Right is a [hugely diverse range of associations](_URL_0_) which largely don't agree with mainstream conservative consensus on a number of issues, for an equally diverse number of reasons.", ...
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[ [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXs879mUu4o" ], [ "http://www.dailywire.com/news/8638/what-alt-right-ben-shapiro" ], [] ]
bkepb9
when and why did mtv move from a platform for music/music videos, to one of entertainment/reality programs?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/bkepb9/eli5_when_and_why_did_mtv_move_from_a_platform/
{ "a_id": [ "emg4nn3" ], "score": [ 6 ], "text": [ "MTV was a subscription channel, the idea was to get people to pay every month for the music videos. By 1994, the end of the VJ era, this business model had clearly failed. Not enough kids would tell their parents \"I want my MTV\" and there wer...
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5sppfy
how did einstein's findings disprove those of isaac newton?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5sppfy/eli5_how_did_einsteins_findings_disprove_those_of/
{ "a_id": [ "ddgwabv", "ddgwu4n" ], "score": [ 3, 8 ], "text": [ "They didn't... well... sorta. Basically, Newton's laws function at the speeds and sizes of everyday life while Einstein's explain at the really small and really fast. They are both mathematical models to explain how stuff ...
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[ [ "https://www.reddit.com/r/askscience/comments/2vbqat/how_do_newtons_laws_and_einsteins_theories/" ], [] ]
8a32ar
what is the modern (as of 2018) significance of being a new york times best selling author?
There are so many people out there that constantly have achieved the best seller status. I was wondering what the significance of this status is, and if it’s significance has been lost over time due to the amount of people obtaining this title. (Not trying to sound ignorant) But also I’m not too sure as to the history ...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8a32ar/eli5_what_is_the_modern_as_of_2018_significance/
{ "a_id": [ "dwvg3ul" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "It is a weekly list of best selling books reported by a variety of booksellers. And each list contains 15-20 books. \n\nSo it isn't meant to say this one is the single best book. It means one week this book was one of the more purchased books.\n\...
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kclyw
emotions
Why do we have them? They're not very beneficial to us, in fact, rage, sorrow, bliss, and etc. actually detract from our ability to survive by clouding our judgement. And if emotions are simply by-products of consciousness, would Artificial Intelligence also have emotions?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/kclyw/eli5_emotions/
{ "a_id": [ "c2j8mp8", "c2j906n", "c2j8mp8", "c2j906n" ], "score": [ 2, 3, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Emotions don't help us very much any more, but remember that the current state of humanity for the last 200 or so years is vastly different than it was for most of the 4 million ye...
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kcmma
the "saw" film series plots, twists, and everything else
Every description I've tried to find is just about as complicated as the watching the movies themselves. I haven't gotten a chance to check out the last one that came out, but I don't mind spoilers. I want to know all of the twists, connections, and everything else the series has provided, no matter how complicated or ...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/kcmma/eli5_the_saw_film_series_plots_twists_and/
{ "a_id": [ "c2j78rz", "c2k1wrz", "c2j78rz", "c2k1wrz" ], "score": [ 7, 2, 7, 2 ], "text": [ "You're 5 years old. You shouldn't be watching that shit. ", "There's a guy. (He's the guy in control of the puppet. I forget his name.) He thinks that people haven't truly live...
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1w5452
why do so many people enjoy online trolling?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1w5452/eli5_why_do_so_many_people_enjoy_online_trolling/
{ "a_id": [ "ceyrv5g" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "you feel powerful, and theirs no risk of someone punching you in the face. " ] }
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40ar2b
how does such a small chip on a mobile device have such processing power and yet do not overheat?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/40ar2b/eli5_how_does_such_a_small_chip_on_a_mobile/
{ "a_id": [ "cysrkso" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Intentionally lowered clock speed and passive heat sink dissipation.\n\nThe processing units are also designed to be low power and incredibly energy efficient, which contributes to lower waste heat, and lower amounts of heat needing to be removed...
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4emz3j
how are women able to give birth to octuplets ?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4emz3j/eli5_how_are_women_able_to_give_birth_to_octuplets/
{ "a_id": [ "d21icef", "d21r9ff" ], "score": [ 46, 6 ], "text": [ "Like giving birth to twins, one at a time, with very careful handling in labour - but there's a lot more risk involved. There 8 placentas so 8 sites for major bleeding, amongst other things.\n\nTypically the children are bo...
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1lm4oa
what would happen if a country adopted a foreign currency (for example, the dollar)? how does this affect the main country's currency and the country that adopted it?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1lm4oa/what_would_happen_if_a_country_adopted_a_foreign/
{ "a_id": [ "cc0l3kv", "cc0ldeo" ], "score": [ 5, 2 ], "text": [ "Some countries *do* use foreign currencies. One reason for doing so is if that country's own currency is not stable.\n\n[Here is the relevant Wikipedia article, \"Dollarization.\"](_URL_0_)", "Countries use adjustments ...
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[ [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dollarization" ], [] ]
2mdzzn
let's say you jump off a very high cliff above water. what determines whether or not you will die when jumping into the water?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2mdzzn/eli5_lets_say_you_jump_off_a_very_high_cliff/
{ "a_id": [ "cm3azpt", "cm3b10o", "cm3be8w", "cm3bevz" ], "score": [ 4, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Height. From 80ft upwards, hitting water is like hitting concrete because it can't displace quick enough. ", "Well the height of the fall matters - > Higher = more lethal\n\nY...
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1jrf2b
why do humans like fireworks?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1jrf2b/eli5_why_do_humans_like_fireworks/
{ "a_id": [ "cbhnvjo" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Because we are attracted to bright shiny things (why do you think most toys are brightly coloured?) and add to that loud noises and a sense of wonder? Irresistible. " ] }
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6uyp73
why could you always tell what objects the characters will interact with in old cartoons?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6uyp73/eli5_why_could_you_always_tell_what_objects_the/
{ "a_id": [ "dlwd8mq" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "The background was one color painting/drawing, while all moving objects were drawn on clear plastic sheets, overlaid and photographed. Unfortunately this meant the colors were not as clear on the background (under the plastic) so you could tell t...
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3ananj
why do people freakout whenever a man uses a women's bathroom and vice versa?
I understand that it's because they're opposite genders and whatnot, but you still do what you do in a bathroom in private in one of the stalls, anyway.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3ananj/eli5_why_do_people_freakout_whenever_a_man_uses_a/
{ "a_id": [ "cse6i0b", "cse6kw6", "cse9u0s" ], "score": [ 6, 3, 3 ], "text": [ "Its social norms. Its been engrained in out lives for so long, its just how it is. To change it is a bit of a shock", "Societies and cultures have norms and taboos. *Norms* are things that are typic...
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2l1cq9
why doea my face hurt when i'm trying to grow a beard?
does*
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2l1cq9/eli5_why_doea_my_face_hurt_when_im_trying_to_grow/
{ "a_id": [ "clqj479", "clqrzvj" ], "score": [ 7, 3 ], "text": [ "Probably because you are not used to the way your hair follicles feel when the hairs press against things, such as when you sleep at night. It can make them sensitive, but only at first!", "Try applying plenty of conditi...
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4d5u5h
why are some languages more complicated than others?
Slavic languages have very sophisticated case and gender systems (for example, Polish has seven cases and 3-7 genders depending on your definitions), while at the same time pronunciation is very hard. Uralic languages (Finnish, Hungarian) have countless noun cases. Chinese is pretty difficult to write. And then we h...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4d5u5h/eli5_why_are_some_languages_more_complicated_than/
{ "a_id": [ "d1nz0s9", "d1nz1u8", "d1nz30h", "d1nz9vb", "d1nzk3h", "d1o12ox", "d1o7dbt", "d1o9wb2" ], "score": [ 12, 3, 3, 3, 3, 18, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "this complication you speak of is only in your head. \n\nother languages are of course mo...
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8cglba
how complex video games work
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8cglba/eli5_how_complex_video_games_work/
{ "a_id": [ "dxer1zo", "dxetxfz", "dxeuj0n" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "How they work in what way? We need a little bit more context to give you a good answer.", "Your question is very vague, so all I can do is give a **very** high level overview (I am not too sure if y...
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6y5tre
what's the point of having multiple diff locks on one vehicle?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6y5tre/eli5_whats_the_point_of_having_multiple_diff/
{ "a_id": [ "dmkxei4" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "Each diff lock handles each axle. Say if the vehicle gets stuck in mud and all tires are spinning, the operator has a choice on what axle to activate the diff lock on.Think of a tractor. The rear wheels can spin at different speeds but once I act...
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1jg2ca
why doesn't nintendo make mario, pokemon, or other games into apps for iphones or androids?
I feel like they would make a lot of money because there has to be a market for that.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1jg2ca/eli5_why_doesnt_nintendo_make_mario_pokemon_or/
{ "a_id": [ "cbebk02" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "Nintendo focuses on the quality of the entire experience. \n\nPhones suck for the types of games Nintendo makes. If you notice, serious phone gamers who play pirated old Nintendo games on their phones buy peripherals that allow them to hook-up PS...
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68tw0t
why was the virgin mary a virgin even though she was married?
Were she and Joesph waiting for something? Was it common in that time and place for married people not to try to have children? (I'm hoping for serious answers based on historical or biblical information.)
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/68tw0t/eli5why_was_the_virgin_mary_a_virgin_even_though/
{ "a_id": [ "dh17l7t", "dh18afp", "dh18ijw", "dh1a5o1", "dh1iby6" ], "score": [ 4, 7, 9, 5, 3 ], "text": [ "Mary and Joseph were not married at the time of the immaculate conception. That is why she was considered a virgin because she was one.", "Mary and Joseph...
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[ [], [], [ "http://esr.ibiblio.org/?p=787" ], [], [] ]
36wqqq
why are mobile websites twitchy?
As in you tap one thing, but the page moves seemingly at random or you tap one thing and another link opens. Basically you want to do one thing, perform the input required to do the one thing, but something else happens. Happens on iPhones, Androids, and Windows Phones, so it isn't just my phone.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/36wqqq/eli5_why_are_mobile_websites_twitchy/
{ "a_id": [ "crhqp64" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "A page is made up of many elements, images, scripts, assorted files that all reference each other.\n\nNormally when the page is loading, it will load the \"main\" file and show the content in your browser. The main page contains references to lo...
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7po57v
how come baby seals have fur, but lose it when they grow up?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7po57v/eli5_how_come_baby_seals_have_fur_but_lose_it/
{ "a_id": [ "dsionsk", "dsjb3if" ], "score": [ 6, 2 ], "text": [ "they have fur because when they are born, they don't have a thick layer of fat (isloation in cold water), so thats one thing. The other and maybe more important thing is that when they are young, they could get eaten by a po...
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63193s
is it possible with the current technology that we have now to make ai able to code new lines of code itself after establishing a base code around it?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/63193s/eli5_is_it_possible_with_the_current_technology/
{ "a_id": [ "dfqjahc", "dfqo9a4" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "What do you mean? Like develop new capabilities or expand on existing ones?\n\nThere are plenty of learning algorithms and networks that are used today but they're limited to enhancing existing capabilities. IBM's Watson is ...
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