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a64dio
google maps uses mercator projection when zoomed out, giving a distorted view of earth. why does nothing seem to change as i zoom into those distorted areas? surely there should be areas of siberia, canada, etc that look fucked up when zoomed in?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/a64dio/eli5_google_maps_uses_mercator_projection_when/
{ "a_id": [ "ebrknsd", "ebrp1gf" ], "score": [ 18, 3 ], "text": [ "First, Google Maps doesn't use a Mercator projection when zoomed out... at least not today on my browser. I get a 3-d spherical \"satellite view\".\n\nBut anyway, what Mercator does wrong is that the scale depends on latit...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conformal_map_projection" ], [] ]
2g0taz
why can't anyone create an internet connection, anywhere, for free without the need for a provider?
I have no idea how this works, please explain.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2g0taz/eli5_why_cant_anyone_create_an_internet/
{ "a_id": [ "ckejcdx", "ckejcsz" ], "score": [ 4, 2 ], "text": [ "\"The Internet\" is just a word for the massive network of cables that connect computers all over the world with each other. Every single one of those cables is owned and maintained by a company, and since installing and ma...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
8z0cys
why is riding a bike a skill you can basically learn once and then never have to relearn while other skills degrade if unused?
Ok, I'm not 100% if riding a bike *never* has to be relearned, but the phrase "it's like riding a bike" came around for a reason. It's something you don't know how to do, but once you learn, your brain seems to just get it from that point on and even if decades pass between bike rides, you can get on one and maintain b...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8z0cys/eli5_why_is_riding_a_bike_a_skill_you_can/
{ "a_id": [ "e2f42og", "e2fif9e" ], "score": [ 9, 2 ], "text": [ "It is connected with the amount of effort you put in in order to learn a skill. Bike riding involves the coordination of many parts of the body which while learned develop many new connections in the brain. \n\nAs time goes ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
3gnksv
how did "mississippi" become the accepted method for audibly measuring seconds?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3gnksv/eli5_how_did_mississippi_become_the_accepted/
{ "a_id": [ "ctzqllo" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "There are many methods of doing this. Mississippi is not the only one. Some people, for instance, say \"one-one-thousand, two-one-thousand.\"\n\nThe unifying factor (it should probably go without saying) is that the word takes about a second to s...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
1gb89z
the basic rules of league of legends so i can enjoy watching a match as a non-player
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1gb89z/eli5_the_basic_rules_of_league_of_legends_so_i/
{ "a_id": [ "caijt8y", "caikd4w", "caikddj", "caio49d", "caioa32", "caip3ld" ], "score": [ 7, 85, 20, 4, 2, 6 ], "text": [ "2 teams. Blue's base is at bottom left of map, purple team is at top right. Every 30 seconds, non-player minions spawn for each team ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://lol.ingame.de/files/2011/06/summoners2-0rift205364x4310.jpg" ] ]
1p4ciz
what does addiction feel like?
My SO is addicted to cigarettes and I don't understand what addiction is like and why it's so hard to quit.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1p4ciz/what_does_addiction_feel_like/
{ "a_id": [ "ccylzyo", "ccyo52k", "ccypb4d", "ccyqqfb", "ccyt3bi" ], "score": [ 7, 3, 10, 4, 2 ], "text": [ "There are two kinds of problems you get from addictions.\n\nThe first one is the most common, and it's getting addicted to the feeling of something. With a d...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
30s0av
why is there so much tension over this iran nuclear deal?
What's going on over there? I keep hearing about powers coming together over a deal. Try to keep your opinion out of it, I'd just like to hear facts in a way I can understand and make my own opinion from.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/30s0av/eli5_why_is_there_so_much_tension_over_this_iran/
{ "a_id": [ "cpv9oea" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Because this is the defining moment, before the Space Jew Lizard Reptillian Illuminati Communist Marxist Soviet army invades and sets the world as the Empire of Israelistan.\n\n\n\nBut really though, lots of people believe that if Israel is not s...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
1y3oxt
what exactly is happening in the brain when you stutter due to social anxiety?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1y3oxt/what_exactly_is_happening_in_the_brain_when_you/
{ "a_id": [ "cfh3381" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "Generally, in the brain, a combination of decreased activity in the areas of motor language processing (Broca's area) and increased activity in areas of voluntary motor control (basal ganglia) leads to stuttering. This may sound contradictory but...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://hms.harvard.edu/sites/default/files/OTB_Summer2013.pdf" ] ]
9rfdgu
why do phones slow down when its cold?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9rfdgu/eli5_why_do_phones_slow_down_when_its_cold/
{ "a_id": [ "e8gg9xk", "e8gkluj", "e8gkzo9" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 5 ], "text": [ "The battery is not as efficient when cold. The loss of power causes the phone to slow down. ", "How cold are you talking about? If it's human livable temperatures, then are you sure you're not viewi...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
85uxsb
why can't astronomers say with certainty if a specific asteroid will or won't strike the earth?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/85uxsb/eli5_why_cant_astronomers_say_with_certainty_if_a/
{ "a_id": [ "dw08we7", "dw08ydd", "dw095zo", "dw0bilg" ], "score": [ 15, 6, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Because of the Sun, Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto, asteroid belt, Kuiper Belt, and Oort cloud. \n\nMost people assume that asteroids go in a...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/N-body_problem" ], [], [], [] ]
9s3lub
why it’s so hard to stand with both feet pointed perfectly straight (most people).
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9s3lub/eli5_why_its_so_hard_to_stand_with_both_feet/
{ "a_id": [ "e8m1wvg" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "If you mean that it's hard to not fall down when doing it, its because your feet are normally splayed out for increased balance. This extra balance is removed when you reduce the perpendicular distance of them to your center of mass.\n\nMathmatic...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
e7jscl
what is the "tls handshake" protocol that runs before you connect to a website?
I noticed it briefly before a page I visited loaded and I've never noticed it before.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/e7jscl/eli5_what_is_the_tls_handshake_protocol_that_runs/
{ "a_id": [ "fa0ds4z", "fa0hf9w" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Essentially, there's a large number of cryptographic methods available, since we've continuously improved them over time.\n\nYour computer is sending which ones it would like to use. The server checks against the ones it wil...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmM9HA2MQGI" ], [] ]
3r4z5z
what left and right is. as if i were an alien, on the other end of a phone, at the other side of a galaxy, with no knowledge of earth or point of reference. (inspiration link attached)
Inspired by a similar posted question with a distinctly less friendly answer. Link in comments.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3r4z5z/eli5_what_left_and_right_is_as_if_i_were_an_alien/
{ "a_id": [ "cwkxplm" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "Left and right are *relative* rather than absolute directions, just like up or down (though we treat them as absolute when on earth). Any intelligent life would be familiar with the concept, although even in some human cultures relative direction...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2xmmqv
how can we still see thumbnails for images that are no longer available?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2xmmqv/eli5how_can_we_still_see_thumbnails_for_images/
{ "a_id": [ "cp1gevz", "cp1iymb" ], "score": [ 3, 6 ], "text": [ "I assume you are talking about on reddit? That would be because when you visit the page the system isn't generating the thumbnail all over again, it simply retrieves a cached copy.", "Say you want to view 1 reddit page w...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
5r34o9
even though i got my flu shot this year, i ended up with the flu, how does this happen and why does it see so common?
Edit: Spelling
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5r34o9/eli5_even_though_i_got_my_flu_shot_this_year_i/
{ "a_id": [ "dd46i3x" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "There are numerous strains of influenza, and they mutate constantly so a vaccine from a year ago won't be effective on the same strain this year.\n\nSo every year Doctors for the Vaccine companies look at what current strains are circulating arou...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3yiqi3
why do people expect countries to apologize for deeds/crimes that happened decades ago?
Even when the current government had nothing to do with it. Eg: Japan apologizing to South-Korea today for their use of Korean comfort women.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3yiqi3/eli5_why_do_people_expect_countries_to_apologize/
{ "a_id": [ "cydr9n3", "cydrp37" ], "score": [ 11, 5 ], "text": [ "When you deny a historical event, or endorse a false narrative, you're keeping it relevant. It is important for a country like Turkey to recognize the Armenian genocide not because it would give some great boost to Armenian...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2qikgn
why is the death of women and children considered more tragic in bombings, etc, than men?
It seems kind of morose to me, to put the deaths of women and children head and shoulders above those of men.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2qikgn/eli5_why_is_the_death_of_women_and_children/
{ "a_id": [ "cn6f78k", "cn6f83g", "cn6f8b1", "cn6gcip", "cn6huf0" ], "score": [ 4, 4, 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Because we're still dealing with the aftermath of an era less than a hundred years gone, when women were considered more fragile and helpless.\n\nChildren dyi...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
2bgd35
why is hitler considered the most evil person ever when there are other leaders who have killed more people?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2bgd35/eli5_why_is_hitler_considered_the_most_evil/
{ "a_id": [ "cj527de", "cj52dgr", "cj52lcy", "cj532m9", "cj534cy", "cj53gd5" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 5, 3, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Most other leaders have killed their own people. Hitler went outside the family. And he started a world war. And he wanted to eradicate ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
90ivph
why does yellow seem brighter than other colors?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/90ivph/eli5_why_does_yellow_seem_brighter_than_other/
{ "a_id": [ "e2r1ptk", "e2r1v32", "e2r20sm", "e2r2rvk", "e2r4a5d", "e2r9sao", "e2rf218", "e2rgbdh" ], "score": [ 181, 97, 1457, 2, 10, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "It always doesn't. But we don't realize it. Same with orange. It has to do how we cat...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://i.imgur.com/X7XS5l7.png", "https://i.imgur.com/yT5FEOc.png" ], [ "http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7253/6899963862_52c45a38df_m.jpg", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Eyesensitivity.svg", "http://www.handmadeinpa.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SA_sun_550SA.jpg", "http://www.h...
f0e0hf
if i'm transferring data from one folder to another in the same ssd, how come the data transfer speed is still so much lower than advertised or tested?
As an example, my Adata XPG S8200 Pro can reach read and write speeds of up to 3500/3000 mb/s and even in testing (using CrystalDiskMark) the supposed speeds are around that range. But when I actually transfer files, even within the SSD, the actual speeds is so much slower?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/f0e0hf/eli5_if_im_transferring_data_from_one_folder_to/
{ "a_id": [ "fgt3vva", "fgt4uv9", "fgtei4o", "fgtyviy" ], "score": [ 7, 12, 13, 2 ], "text": [ "one of the reasons may be that in order to transfer a file, it's necessary to locate all of its pieces on the drive, then find a new place for them on the drive - probably, not o...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
5y8gqs
why do some people find mathematics hard no matter how hard they study? for example geometry. is there a reason behind why students struggle a lot in this subject compare to other classes?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5y8gqs/eli5why_do_some_people_find_mathematics_hard_no/
{ "a_id": [ "denzfgl", "deo4wpl", "deo74si", "deotgy0" ], "score": [ 2, 9, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Typically the problem is students are taught wrong. This is coming from my wife who changed from math education to analytics after her clinicals and found out just how much bureauc...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
8otmoa
how did we discover colour blindness ?
That is : given that we both learned to call the colour of leaves "green" even if the colourblind perceives what I actually qualify as red. How did Dalton knew that what he called green was not what we called green ?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8otmoa/eli5_how_did_we_discover_colour_blindness/
{ "a_id": [ "e05zofh", "e060wba", "e065792" ], "score": [ 10, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Colorblindness itself is not necessarily that hard to \"discover.\" The colorblind person is unable to distinguish colors that a non-colorblind person can. \n\nIn your scenario, if you just look at the...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
efgg4y
what is the yellow substance that sometimes appears near the corners of our eyelids when we awaken?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/efgg4y/eli5_what_is_the_yellow_substance_that_sometimes/
{ "a_id": [ "fc074cd" ], "score": [ 10 ], "text": [ "Basically, it is normal mucus produced by the conjunctiva, including oil from the meibomian glands, and other debris from the front surface of the eye.\n\nBecause we do not blink during sleep, eye discharge collects in the corners of our eyes an...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3l46zs
why is melting lead considered "safe" but lead paint deadly?
I'm looking to melt some lead and make little figures. What should I know.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3l46zs/eli5_why_is_melting_lead_considered_safe_but_lead/
{ "a_id": [ "cv31rsp", "cv32tc8" ], "score": [ 4, 2 ], "text": [ "Lead paint itself is not usually troublesome*, it is the removing of said paint that is the issue. If the paint chips and falls off, collecting those flecks can be troublesome but is also generally safe to do. however sandin...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
3xsg4e
why are er called "emergency" when the wait time is literally more than 3 hours?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3xsg4e/eli5why_are_er_called_emergency_when_the_wait/
{ "a_id": [ "cy7e4l7", "cy7e9kk", "cy7enfn", "cy7fnw1" ], "score": [ 15, 7, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Seriously time-sensitive cases are admitted immediately. However, most injuries and conditions are relatively stable; even if you break your arm, as long as you aren't doing stren...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
4x6hki
why do steel only bullets create sparks?
I was at the gun range for the first time today and noticed that steel core bullets create sparks when striking the metal target, but other non-steel bullets don't. Why is this?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4x6hki/eli5_why_do_steel_only_bullets_create_sparks/
{ "a_id": [ "d6d0r3d", "d6d4onr" ], "score": [ 8, 2 ], "text": [ "The sparks you saw were burning iron fragments. Iron, and some other metals, can shatter into tiny pieces which can spontaneously ignite when they come in contact with air (oxygen). This property is called [Pyrophoricity](_U...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pyrophoricity" ], [] ]
1m7epr
why is a geisha costume considered racist but equally inaccurate costumes like a ninja is not?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1m7epr/eli5_why_is_a_geisha_costume_considered_racist/
{ "a_id": [ "cc6ic2v" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "My guess is how much it relates to the racial background the costume refers to, and whether it portrays that race in a positive or negative light.\n\nEssentially, you need to look at the cultural expectations for the costume. Do we consider the c...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
cc0pz1
how can the emotional numbness that comes with depression make one physically numb too?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/cc0pz1/eli5_how_can_the_emotional_numbness_that_comes/
{ "a_id": [ "etjmt4s", "etk26c8", "etkjqbk" ], "score": [ 2, 5, 3 ], "text": [ "Depression in the literal sense should suggest limited mobility. The lack of oxygenated blood flow and increased heart rate is a likely reason.", "I’ve grown so numb over the years I can punch any h...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
79guz8
what makes olive oil so healthy and sunflower oil unhealthy?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/79guz8/eli5_what_makes_olive_oil_so_healthy_and/
{ "a_id": [ "dp1wxi0", "dp1xa51" ], "score": [ 11, 15 ], "text": [ "Sunflower oil isn't unhealthy at all. It's high in calories, but no more so than olive oil. \n\nThey have different uses. Olive oil is considered more healthy because it can be used to replace animal fat in savory dishes, ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
6lzirg
how does playing by ear work?
Someone told me to 'just play the chords'. But how does that work? When listening to a song, how are you suppose to know which chord is which? Because when I hear a song, say twinkle twinkle, I think, the second twinkle is higher than the first one, but that's about it. I couldn't possible try every variation can I unt...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6lzirg/eli5_how_does_playing_by_ear_work/
{ "a_id": [ "djxsliv" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "A song follows a scale(99% of the time) which is basically a set of specific notes. This eliminates already a lot of notes you aren't supposed to try. For example a C major scale doesn't use black keys on a piano.\n\nA lot of pop songs will usual...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
lutqx
why there is such violence and conflict in the caucasus?
I know there has been lots of conflict there for a long time, but why? Is it like a political angst, or are they a repressed minority or what?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/lutqx/eli5_why_there_is_such_violence_and_conflict_in/
{ "a_id": [ "c2vs61n", "c2vs61n" ], "score": [ 3, 3 ], "text": [ "First, it's a very mountainous area. Extremely mountains regions in the old world are often inhabited by strikingly different ethnic groups in close proximity. The reason is pretty obvious: if it was hard to get from one v...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
x0p3u
why do stitches work for sewing up skin wounds? what is the limit?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/x0p3u/eli5_why_do_stitches_work_for_sewing_up_skin/
{ "a_id": [ "c5i4mdd", "c5i694h" ], "score": [ 6, 2 ], "text": [ "Stitches just hold your skin together nice and close so your body can heal naturally. There's really no limit, but there are cuts that are more difficult to stitch, like when portions of skin are missing.\n\nAlso, they have ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
dk06c3
for what reason do banks not employ two-factor authentication to ensure the authenticity of transactions?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/dk06c3/eli5_for_what_reason_do_banks_not_employ/
{ "a_id": [ "f49jlhy" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Some banks do offer 2FA tokens. \n\nMy mother is an administrator for a small business and has one on her keyring for all work transactions. The administrator for a small business that I work for has one on her keyring for work transactions also....
[]
[]
[ [] ]
4voty6
how does a ranked voting system work?
I keep hearing that it is better the USA's current system of voting but how so? And how would it help eliminate the 2 party system?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4voty6/eli5_how_does_a_ranked_voting_system_work/
{ "a_id": [ "d605iis", "d605nlx", "d60em04" ], "score": [ 2, 10, 2 ], "text": [ "The ranked voting system has a voter rank all candidates in order of preference. If a candidate gets over 50% of the vote they win. If not, the last place candidate is eliminated and the 2nd ranked can...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/politics/constituencies/N06000003" ] ]
8lz7xk
how is this possible or where is the math wrong?
(1/3=0.33333) (2/3=0.66666) (0.6666+0.3333=0.9999) (1/3+2/3=1)
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8lz7xk/eli5_how_is_this_possible_or_where_is_the_math/
{ "a_id": [ "dzjl77m", "dzjl7il", "dzjl87u", "dzjleld", "dzjlg5t", "dzjlptu", "dzjmiaa", "dzkh48y" ], "score": [ 26, 2, 2, 4, 2, 2, 2, 4 ], "text": [ "1/3 does not equal 0.33333, it equals 0.3333333333... forever.\n\nSame deal with 2/3. It eq...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
1spv82
what exactly are stock indexes (djia, nasdaq, s & p500) and how are their values calculated?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1spv82/eli5what_exactly_are_stock_indexes_djia_nasdaq/
{ "a_id": [ "ce006m5" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Dow Jones Industrial Average is a stock market index created by Wall Street Journal editor and Dow Jones & Company co-founder Charles Dow. The industrial average was first calculated on May 26, 1896. The Industrial portion of the name is large...
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[ [] ]
679w4b
why does san francisco, home to an industry known for literally inventing telecommuting, suffer from so much location-based demand when the employees could be living anywhere?
Why is it that tech workers need to be in (or close to) San Francisco to work for companies like Google, Oracle, LinkedIn, Adobe, etc. when those companies could embrace telework and hire people from anywhere in the US/world?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/679w4b/eli5_why_does_san_francisco_home_to_an_industry/
{ "a_id": [ "dgowy8p", "dgoxew6", "dgpb9bl" ], "score": [ 6, 13, 2 ], "text": [ "San Francisco != Silicon Valley\n\nSan Jose is really the true hub of Silicon Valley, and is about 50 miles away from San Francisco. Most tech workers live there instead of paying for the prestige of ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
5sx1s1
why do most people from latin american countries like argentina and uruguay look caucasian while their neighbors like chile and paraguay look more hispanic?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5sx1s1/eli5_why_do_most_people_from_latin_american/
{ "a_id": [ "ddijb41", "ddilz5a" ], "score": [ 2, 6 ], "text": [ "\"Hispanic\" is an ethnicity, it refers to culture. You're conflating it with race.\n\nRacially, the majority of Latin Americans are a cross between native peoples and Europeans. Some regions have more European blood in them...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
3kx9vr
that feeling in my teeth after drinking a few sips of coke or pepsi?
I mean obviously those drinks are terrible for your teeth, but are the results so instant that you can feel it after 3 sips? And the feeling wears off after like ten seconds.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3kx9vr/eli5_that_feeling_in_my_teeth_after_drinking_a/
{ "a_id": [ "cv194nt" ], "score": [ 10 ], "text": [ "You mean the \"skin on your teef\" feeling?" ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
7r96u2
how do demolition companies knock down buildings in cities with dynamite without destroying other buildings and having all the rubble fall in one place?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7r96u2/eli5_how_do_demolition_companies_knock_down/
{ "a_id": [ "dsv4gb1", "dsv4kmr", "dsviopy" ], "score": [ 6, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "They carefully calculate and simulate the position and strength of the explosives. It's placed to destroy main holding structures from the middle so that the building would collapse on itself, with outs...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
15npil
why does my vision turn purple when i press my palms against my eyes?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/15npil/why_does_my_vision_turn_purple_when_i_press_my/
{ "a_id": [ "c7o41k8" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "Often times our eyes perceive light even though there isn't any; these phenomena are dubbed [phosphenes](_URL_0_). When you press against your eyes or rub them, you manually stimulate the optic nerve cells, causing a [pressure phosphene](_URL_0_#...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phosphene", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phosphene#Mechanical_stimulation", "https://youtu.be/34NgoKfrG2k" ] ]
3gocip
how did companies such as columbia house, that offered cd's and dvd's for pennies, stay in business for so long?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3gocip/eli5_how_did_companies_such_as_columbia_house/
{ "a_id": [ "ctzyczv", "ctzyfcu", "ctzynpr" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "So, just to be clear, based on what you describe in your post I am pretty sure you committed [mail fraud.](_URL_0_) Not a judgment, just a note that your nearly free CD's may have come with a sizable ri...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://www.google.com/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=mail%20fraud%20penalty" ], [], [] ]
819cm5
what is past the borders of space?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/819cm5/eli5what_is_past_the_borders_of_space/
{ "a_id": [ "dv1gpq6", "dv1gsc9", "dv1gumf", "dv1gw3g", "dv1hbpv" ], "score": [ 3, 5, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ " > I know space is expanding in all directions but whats past that?\n\nThat isn't a meaningful question. Space appears to be infinite in extent and simply be...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
642kl3
why does cutting the taxes of individual business owners create more jobs? why is personal income tied to a briskness' decision to hire?
This is NOT for political debate about the merits of tax cuts for the rich. I always hear things like "If you cut the taxes of the 1%, they will create more jobs." But aren't their individual wealth/income/taxes separate from anything they would do in a business setting? If a CEO making $10m a year gets an extra $1m "b...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/642kl3/eli5_why_does_cutting_the_taxes_of_individual/
{ "a_id": [ "dfywqx8", "dfywufd", "dfz0ia1" ], "score": [ 3, 5, 3 ], "text": [ "By a _very_ wide margin, most businesses are small businesses with one or two owners. These are individuals whose job IS owning/running their business, which means that their income is the profit of the...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
19geup
how are internet providers able to stay a monopoly when the internet is supposedly open?
I understand the basics of tcp/ip, dns, and how the interconnection works. What I do not understand is how it's all tied together. Say I want to open my own ISP. Where do I basically send my customer's data to assuming I don't want to go through an established provider as a subsidiary?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/19geup/how_are_internet_providers_able_to_stay_a/
{ "a_id": [ "c8nsamt", "c8nvbvt", "c8nymoj" ], "score": [ 3, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "You have to go through an established provider. You actually have to go through *every* established provider, either directly or indirectly; their subscribers are part of the Internet, and your customer...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_exchange_point" ], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telecommunications_Act_of_1996" ] ]
3carx5
the over 18 age confirmation on adult websites?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3carx5/eli5_the_over_18_age_confirmation_on_adult/
{ "a_id": [ "cstro01" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "It's essentially just a way to cover their asses. It's a liability. Say little 15 year old Jimmy's mom catches him whacking off to pornhub, and decides to sue pornhub, pornhub can say \"Look, we posted the warning and he decided to click that he ...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
4j5y12
why are government run banks considered "bad"?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4j5y12/eli5_why_are_government_run_banks_considered_bad/
{ "a_id": [ "d33wwhx" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "They are not considered \"bad\" because the government runs them, they are run by the government because they have gone \"bad\" (i.e. no longer capable of covering their financial obligations towards customers that have placed money with them). M...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2583kt
how does an army capture a city?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2583kt/eli5_how_does_an_army_capture_a_city/
{ "a_id": [ "chelnmk", "chelp2l", "chem3nh", "chethrj" ], "score": [ 2, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Not entirely sure but something about controlling the roads, local government and defeating whatever opposition there is.", "You point a gun at the guy or guys that used to mak...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
4a7yhb
how is it possible for there to be so many blonde people when it is a recessive trait?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4a7yhb/eli5_how_is_it_possible_for_there_to_be_so_many/
{ "a_id": [ "d0y42ck", "d0y452v", "d0y4hoz", "d0y7utg" ], "score": [ 3, 12, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "To make it clearer I guess they should change \"blondes have more fun\" to \"blondes have more sex\"", "Recessiveness means that the trait is less likely to be expressed, not ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "http://www.eupedia.com/europe/neanderthal_facts_and_myths.shtml" ], [ "https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sexual_selection" ] ]
26lsg4
how do software developers make an executable that works on most hardware?
When I compile a program in say, C, I have to compile it specifically for my hardware. How does the executable in a program or game work for most pieces of hardware (under the same OS)? Is it just a massive collection of many different compilations?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/26lsg4/eli5_how_do_software_developers_make_an/
{ "a_id": [ "chs7mdj", "chs7sfh" ], "score": [ 3, 3 ], "text": [ "With a modern OS, programs seldom need to directly interface the hardware. The software talks to the OS and the OS keeps track of how to control the hardware.\n\nThe program just needs to be compiled down to instructions the...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
u6ox2
eli how coal burns if it's mostly carbon, but ash is what's left after something burns, and it's mostly carbon, too.
Oh, and explain the same thing with charcoal, too.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/u6ox2/eli_how_coal_burns_if_its_mostly_carbon_but_ash/
{ "a_id": [ "c4srw6v", "c4ssb37", "c4stczl", "c4suvk6", "c4suy1q" ], "score": [ 19, 11, 102, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "A lump of coal not only contains carbon, but other elements and compounds as well.\n\n\nCoal burns as it heats up and the carbon reacts with oxygen, creat...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
cx2wij
how do 'grow your own crystal' kits work?
What are they made of? How long will they last?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/cx2wij/eli5_how_do_grow_your_own_crystal_kits_work/
{ "a_id": [ "eyi095n", "eyi0f54", "eyi7e3z" ], "score": [ 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "They are just some salt, colours and instructions. Making a crystal isn't hard, polar molecules that drop out if solution tend to stick together in a rigid structure, a crystal. So you just need to diss...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
2hlvqn
why ios update is 75mb but requires 1.5gb to install?
[EDIT] Woah. Thanks guys for al the answers! I've never thought I would learn all those things about updates.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2hlvqn/eli5_why_ios_update_is_75mb_but_requires_15gb_to/
{ "a_id": [ "cktvqr9", "cktvzjl", "cktw3hv", "ckty97b", "cktzdw3", "cktzqcu", "cku0hcy", "cku1uyq", "cku1z03", "cku2dvu", "cku3m6o", "cku4838", "cku5ikb", "cku5jlu", "cku78a7", "cku7nmh", "cku8cxf", "cku9m4e", "ckucd8w", "ckucyy7", "c...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://imgur.com/8LIcRuF" ], [] ]
6qaj1t
why do cakes rise higher in the middle rather than equally across the top surface?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6qaj1t/eli5_why_do_cakes_rise_higher_in_the_middle/
{ "a_id": [ "dkvs71g", "dkw1877" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "You can consider it similar to not rising upwards, but inflating - the yeast in it creates air, which pushes the volume of the cake up. The sides are either held back by the edges, or have less pressure from air from surroun...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://youtu.be/gvqgdN2YLbk?t=151" ] ]
614e08
what are the "reflections" in the road when the road is aligned with eyesight?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/614e08/eli5_what_are_the_reflections_in_the_road_when/
{ "a_id": [ "dfbn1ks", "dfbuxoc" ], "score": [ 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Imperfections in the road cause [inferior mirages](_URL_0_). An illusion of water on the road is one of the most common examples of mirages out there. \n\nThe same phenomenon occurs when you look over the top of a hot BBQ gr...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mirage" ], [] ]
b92mxe
why do trucks have lower rpm but pull so much, compared to sports cars that rev higher but cant pull a big load.
Even in gasoline engines where a pick up trucks V8 rev lower than a sport cars V8 but they can pull a lot more. Would it not make more sense for pickup trucks to rev higher and have a lower gear?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/b92mxe/eli5_why_do_trucks_have_lower_rpm_but_pull_so/
{ "a_id": [ "ek1s8rf", "ek1wibx" ], "score": [ 3, 4 ], "text": [ "Torque. It’s essentially about leverage and how those RPMs are used. Turning a big shaft slower is going to drive a large load, whereas turning a narrow shaft faster will provide more speed and acceleration at the cost of ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2pyk26
when a country gives another country money, what actually happens to transfer the money? if it was a check, what would be the from and to fields?
Just saw another post where the U.S. is giving Pakistan $1 billion in aid/reimbursement which got me thinking what actually goes happens? I'm assuming it's not cash...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2pyk26/eli5when_a_country_gives_another_country_money/
{ "a_id": [ "cn16bm9", "cn17b88" ], "score": [ 6, 3 ], "text": [ "THIS is an excellent question and I look forward to reading more informed answers. But I believe that the money is simply wired from one central bank to another central bank. (Of course, aid takes on many forms -- sometimes ...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alaska_Purchase#mediaviewer/File:Alaska_Purchase_(hi-res).jpg" ] ]
5alug6
why organizations like better business bureau and yelp are shady?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5alug6/eli5_why_organizations_like_better_business/
{ "a_id": [ "d9hffro", "d9hgnhm" ], "score": [ 6, 3 ], "text": [ "People tend to think BBB is a government agency because the word \"bureau\" is in it. It's a private entity and they have no real authority other than to say \"The BBB rates you [grade].\" The real problem is the only way to...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
aqia9d
why is the concept of white privelege in america so contentious?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/aqia9d/eli5_why_is_the_concept_of_white_privelege_in/
{ "a_id": [ "egg73fg" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Perhaps it's easy to think of it in terms of \"Jew Privilege\". Jews have been regarded in many places as having a special privilege by virtue of being Jewish - a special privilege that explains why they entered financially rewarding professions ...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
k8vk1
i think i might understand "hashing" from a computing/security viewpoint... but can someone critique it like i'm 5? :)
The analogy I am coming up with is like this (it's abstract and silly, but bear with me!). The doorman of a club has a guest list of people that are to be allowed in, and when people arrive, he checks if their name is there, and either rejects them or allows them in. Just like a login page on a website. However, the ...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/k8vk1/eli5_i_think_i_might_understand_hashing_from_a/
{ "a_id": [ "c2id8i5", "c2iev5k", "c2id8i5", "c2iev5k" ], "score": [ 8, 4, 8, 4 ], "text": [ "That's actually a very good example. In the real world, of course, it's very difficult to 'reverse-engineer' the hashed list. \n\nAlso, in your example, Ace would have a hash of 9,...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
5vzgb5
if someone wipes their hard drive, how do computer forensic people know what they did?
E.g. in the Waymo v. Otto lawsuit, the guy wiped his hard drive. So how did they figure out all the stuff he did?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5vzgb5/eli5_if_someone_wipes_their_hard_drive_how_do/
{ "a_id": [ "de631vq", "de63gdc", "de64tfk", "de6w640" ], "score": [ 7, 7, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "there's a few ways.\n\n1. wiping your hard drive doesn't actually wipe the contents. for example, OS's operate in a similar fashion to the dewey decimal system. the OS stores a t...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
2a7p3h
how does the tsa seemingly create any rule they want and everyone must follow?
From what I hear, read, and experience in my own life, I feel as though most decisions regarding the check-in experience at an airport which the TSA has established don't sit well with the majority of the population. As a democratic country, why don't these policies get voted on? If people don't like the things TSA d...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2a7p3h/eli5how_does_the_tsa_seemingly_create_any_rule/
{ "a_id": [ "cisbidu", "cise5my", "cisem3b", "cisiz88", "cismorc" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "The TSA was established with the passing of the aviation and transportation security act of 2001. Congress wrote voted and passed the law for former president...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
crz0db
how do cells in an embryo know what to turn into? like how does it know which cell turns into muscle and which cell turns into bone? where does it draw the line between the 2?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/crz0db/eli5_how_do_cells_in_an_embryo_know_what_to_turn/
{ "a_id": [ "exb02hj", "exb0dtz", "exb172n" ], "score": [ 6, 2, 4 ], "text": [ "Stem cells can give rise to specialized cells. When unspecialized stem cells give rise to specialized cells, the process is called differentiation. While differentiating, the cell usually goes through s...
[]
[]
[ [ "https://stemcells.nih.gov/info/basics/2.htm" ], [ "https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cellular_differentiation" ], [] ]
1wwr4a
why do we assume life on other planets is made up of the same chemicals as us?
why do we think life has to live within the habitable zone of a solar system, and why do we think life needs amino acids and water to exist? Is it possible for things to exist consistenting of other elements, I.e. transformers
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1wwr4a/eli5why_do_we_assume_life_on_other_planets_is/
{ "a_id": [ "cf61slf", "cf62mq1", "cf62n7x" ], "score": [ 4, 8, 3 ], "text": [ "Because we know what life that is based on the same chemicals as us looks like. We know the signs, the needs and the waste products that can be used to find life.\n\nSomething that does not match up to...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
6bbgsj
speed limits
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6bbgsj/eli5speed_limits/
{ "a_id": [ "dhl8amw" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Road structure, distance between intersections, visibility, and number of lanes. These are just a few factors that go into determining the speed limit." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2b6b1v
how people are able to use words correctly without being able to define them
I assumed it is something to do with context knowledge or something, but I was very curious over how people can intuitively know to use a word correctly without being able to actually define what the word means.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2b6b1v/eli5_how_people_are_able_to_use_words_correctly/
{ "a_id": [ "cj278gz", "cj30h1f" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "They have heard/read it in a certain context before and are simply regurgitating information when presented with identical context", "Humans are *really* good at finding relationships between things. In fact, we are *to...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
5a0jga
why do microwaves cause such a "burning sensation" even though they are less energetic than visible light?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5a0jga/eli5_why_do_microwaves_cause_such_a_burning/
{ "a_id": [ "d9cru6m" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Each photon of microwave energy has less energy than a photon of visible light. However, microwaves tend to be used in copious quantities. Radars, data links, food warmers, use microwave beams of thousands of watts. They also penetrate the ski...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
37kd0d
who came up with the standard blanket(s)/pillow(s) bed layout and how did they come up with it?
I'm so comfortable
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/37kd0d/eli5_who_came_up_with_the_standard/
{ "a_id": [ "crnf45k" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Bed gives your a dry, soft surface to sleep on.\n\nPillow supports your head/neck.\n\nBlanket keeps you warm, protects you from wind, is comforting.\n\nNot sure who came up with it. Allmost definitely wasn't invented at one time by one person. Pr...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3znrqv
in the us, how come if someone sides with one party on one issue, they're likely to share many other views with that same party? do the people stay on the far ends of party lines because of the government or is the government polarized because of the people?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3znrqv/eli5_in_the_us_how_come_if_someone_sides_with_one/
{ "a_id": [ "cynmb09", "cynmma0" ], "score": [ 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Our species is hard wired to be tribal. We don't think rationally at all, no matter how much we want to believe that we do. Aligning with a political party automatically makes a competing party the \"enemy\". We are pred...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/28/opinion/28kristof.html?_r=3&em" ] ]
13lhnc
what is the difference between the american scouts and english scouts?
It seems as if the boy scouts in America are hated for being a Christian racist organization (at least on reddit), but in england it didnt seem that way at all. I dont remember it being christian at all (i remember the oath to join required you to "do your duty to god and the queen", but there was never any religion af...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/13lhnc/what_is_the_difference_between_the_american/
{ "a_id": [ "c756s1p" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Not sure about in Britain, but in the US the BSA (Boy Scouts of America) is notorious for its homophobic discriminatory policies that include no openly gay scouts or leaders. The scouts themselves aren't hated, but for many the organization itsel...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
217w66
why does plaque mostly clog coronary arteries? why doesn't it affect veins or arteries in the toes, for example?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/217w66/eli5_why_does_plaque_mostly_clog_coronary/
{ "a_id": [ "cgagtc7", "cgah6rx", "cgah7xx" ], "score": [ 4, 5, 3 ], "text": [ "It can, but minor blockages or breaks in veins, arteries, and capillaries can be compensated for by their neighbors until a new rerouting can be grown.", "I don't think it's that coronary arteries a...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
2lillm
why with today's camera technology do we still use video cameras that are 15+ pounds, and require two hands and a shoulder to rest on?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2lillm/eli5_why_with_todays_camera_technology_do_we/
{ "a_id": [ "clv54n1", "clv5s56", "clve6bs", "clvkg88" ], "score": [ 62, 17, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "For quality and photographic properties.\n\nThe biggest limiting factor is the lens. The wider the lens, the more light it can capture; and the longer the lens, the more tightly ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
373xpj
why the us, whose military spending exceeds the next top ten countries in military spending, combined, cannot take down isis.
Satellites, drones, the NSA, the best weapons and aircraft, the most money spent on civilian training, etc. And they can't take down ISIS which is taking over locations that are publicized on the news.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/373xpj/eli5_why_the_us_whose_military_spending_exceeds/
{ "a_id": [ "crjh2qf", "crjh88o", "crjh8kr", "crjhfqm", "crjioij", "crjjpkv" ], "score": [ 43, 21, 3, 8, 2, 4 ], "text": [ "All they need is a fleet of B52's to flattened the whole city. A couple of nukes to flatten the country, so why can't they just destro...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
5q2q4z
how do voter id laws suppress votes?
I understand that the more hoops one has to go through to vote, the fewer people will want to subject themselves to go through the process. But I don't fully understand how voter ID laws suppress minorities specifically, or how they're more suppressive than requiring voters to show up in person at the booths (instead o...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5q2q4z/eli5_how_do_voter_id_laws_suppress_votes/
{ "a_id": [ "dcvt0si", "dcvt59u", "dcvtc39", "dcvttl6", "dcvu21g", "dcvx9vt", "dcvzuk7", "dcw0oh6", "dcw1tra", "dcw1whx", "dcw21xk", "dcw290q", "dcw2ij1", "dcw2l79", "dcw2pfi", "dcw2ufe", "dcw35le", "dcw3a1s", "dcw3dfl", "dcw3dpg", "d...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXJ6JYr_zJI" ], [ "http://www.cnn.com/2015/12/09/politics/alabama-dmv-closures-voting-rights/" ], [], [], [ "http://www.elections.ca/content.aspx?section=vot&dir=ids&document=index&lang=e" ], [], [], [], [], [...
4wv6ui
why are ibuprofen tablets bright pink in the uk? what determines the colour of different pills?
Just wondering, they're very often bright pink (rarely see white tablets) - is there a reason for this? Pink seems a strange colour given that it might make them look more like sweets to children. Is the colour pink chosen specifically, or was it randomly selected to make them stand out from other tablets? Is there spe...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4wv6ui/eli5_why_are_ibuprofen_tablets_bright_pink_in_the/
{ "a_id": [ "d6a5uic", "d6a5w7g", "d6a6oue" ], "score": [ 5, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Pills often contain an artificial coloring ingredient to make them distinctive. They'd generally be white otherwise. Same reason they come in so many different shapes/sizes/textures and often have lette...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
cp8sr8
if using screens before bed interferes with the bodies ability to produce melatonin and sleep normally, then would taking a melatonin pill reverse this effect?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/cp8sr8/eli5_if_using_screens_before_bed_interferes_with/
{ "a_id": [ "ewo3ah5", "ewo72xf", "ewo7prl", "ewocbpb", "ewocjij", "ewoctzh", "ewoeotq", "ewogdk5", "ewom0g8" ], "score": [ 40, 6, 31, 5, 247, 2, 6, 5, 2 ], "text": [ "Does blue light filtering on phones actually work or does it just ...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visible_light", "https://www.aop.org.uk/ot/industry/high-street/2017/05/26/boots-opticians-fined-40000-over-misleading-blue-light-advertising", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eye_strain", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Circadian_rhythm", "https://doi.org/10...
2njqzz
lumps in your throat. why do you get them during emotional moments/suddenly dusty rooms?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2njqzz/eli5_lumps_in_your_throat_why_do_you_get_them/
{ "a_id": [ "cme8lru" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "Under stress, glands in your throat such as lymph nodes or epiglottis can become swollen, diagnosed as globus pharyngeus. The exact mechanism is uncertain. " ] }
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[ [] ]
1cleyt
what it means to fake it until you make it and how to do just that.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1cleyt/eli5_what_it_means_to_fake_it_until_you_make_it/
{ "a_id": [ "c9hm83v", "c9hmxdj", "c9ho05j", "c9hos9p", "c9hqqw7" ], "score": [ 15, 5, 3, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "Act like you have a clear understanding of all your job's roles until you are properly trained and well-learned in it and then succeed.", "It's a mental ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
17imtm
why do oil refineries have so many lights?
Its like the have 6 million per square inch!
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/17imtm/eli5_why_do_oil_refineries_have_so_many_lights/
{ "a_id": [ "c85udnd", "c85ufjj" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Probably because people are working there around the clock with a lot of potentially dangerous stuff so they need to see everything very clearly.", "I stayed at a Holiday Inn Express one time, so here goes. \nOil refine...
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[ [], [] ]
2wmpnv
people say a human bite is extremely dangerous and it can result to a nasty infection. but how can that happen if we already carry the bacteria and germs in our own mouths? and how do we not transmit them through kissing as well?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2wmpnv/eli5_people_say_a_human_bite_is_extremely/
{ "a_id": [ "cos9uo0", "cosa3uy", "cosd9k5" ], "score": [ 10, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "When you get bit, all those bad things get in/under the skin and can cause an infection. It's when our bad bacteria gets in places it shouldn't be that it is dangerous to us.", "Kissing shouldn't ...
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[ [], [], [] ]
1pu9xa
why is black pepper a staple seasoning along with salt?
I can understand why salt is since saltiness occurs in most dishes and salt allows you to increase that, but why is black pepper right alongside salt always?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1pu9xa/eli5_why_is_black_pepper_a_staple_seasoning_along/
{ "a_id": [ "cd63lud", "cd63znv" ], "score": [ 2, 33 ], "text": [ "Because it is fucking tasty.", "Salt enhances flavor while pepper compliments it. Black pepper specifically if kept correctly and ground fresh adds earthy, woody, citrus and spice without any capsaicin which is what alm...
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[ [], [] ]
3gssvo
in swimming, how can the world record for an individual event be slower than a single leg of a relay?
Check out Jason Lezak (USA) who swam the final leg in 46.06 in 2008. _URL_0_ Looks like the world record was set by Cesar Cielo (BRA) with 46.91 in 2009. _URL_1_ Since each swimmer starts from a standstill, I don't see why they wouldn't be able to repeat the performance at an individual event. In fact, not just Jason...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3gssvo/eli5_in_swimming_how_can_the_world_record_for_an/
{ "a_id": [ "cu17dq6", "cu17gy7", "cu17h5b", "cu1aqpw" ], "score": [ 2, 6, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "The rules for a relay start are only that the next swimmers feet must be on the blocks when the previous swimmer touches the wall. This allows the swimmer on the blocks to get a ru...
[]
[ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swimming_at_the_2008_Summer_Olympics_%E2%80%93_Men%27s_4_%C3%97_100_metre_freestyle_relay", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_record_progression_100_metres_freestyle" ]
[ [], [ "http://youtu.be/qE6TPQZwxFg" ], [], [] ]
2nnckd
how do unions work when it comes to large companies? how much power/influence do they really have?
Listening to a podcast from a former WWE wrestler who says he wishes the WWE has a union caused me to realize that I really don't know what they are.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2nnckd/eli5_how_do_unions_work_when_it_comes_to_large/
{ "a_id": [ "cmf6xkf" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "So a union is an organization of workers who can bargain collectively with their employer. If they feel that the employer is unfairly refusing to meet their demands, they will use a labor action to try to force their employer to negotiate with th...
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95xsdg
why do most tattoo inks usually fade into a green/teal colour overtime?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/95xsdg/eli5_why_do_most_tattoo_inks_usually_fade_into_a/
{ "a_id": [ "e3wcwv9", "e3wk7jz", "e3wqkq4" ], "score": [ 17, 8, 8 ], "text": [ "Your immune system eventually breaks down and removes the ink particles in your skin. Kind of like how your immune system fights colds. ", "Your body basically tries to get rid of the ink forever a...
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[]
[ [], [], [] ]
1rdguy
what is the history behind eating eggs?
1. How has the egg evolved within the world food system over the course of history from hunter/gathers to industrialized factory farming we see today? 2. When/Where/Why did chickens become the only domestic egg producers in the world? 3. Is there a difference in nutrition quality between organic eggs and industrial p...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1rdguy/eli5_what_is_the_history_behind_eating_eggs/
{ "a_id": [ "cdm6t8f" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "I don't have all the answers but this:\n\n > When/Where/Why did chickens become the only domestic egg producers in the world?\n\nSimply isn't true. Lots of countries use other birds, for instance ducks." ] }
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5ojmlt
how does a court transcriptionist get every single word of a court case down so fast?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5ojmlt/eli5_how_does_a_court_transcriptionist_get_every/
{ "a_id": [ "dcjrjxb", "dcjsdpe", "dcjtzw5", "dcjv4fa", "dcjxrz5", "dcjys5g", "dck9m72" ], "score": [ 107, 17, 25, 3, 22, 158, 2 ], "text": [ "They have special typewriters and learn shorthand. It's called stenography. They go to school for 2 years t...
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[]
[ [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62l64Acfidc" ], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stenomask" ], [], [], [ "http://www.acrdepos.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/StenoKeyLayout.png", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stenotype" ], [] ]
4ykf8k
why is it that some people have blonde hair but dark eyebrows?
Excuse me if I'm being ignorant here. Where I come from, people don't naturally have blonde hair. I'm in a LDR with a Norwegian girl and she has blonde hair, eyebrows and eyelashes, so I'm just curious.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4ykf8k/eli5_why_is_it_that_some_people_have_blonde_hair/
{ "a_id": [ "d6oqny7" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Sometimes (most of the time?) women who color their darker hair blonde (and there are a lot of them) do not color their eyebrows, too. If the hair is darker at the scalp that is quite possible the case.\n\nMaybe the two just are not exactly the ...
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6jd6ey
why does using a towel or other external cloth material help aid in opening or tightening caps/lids/knobs etc?
Ever since I was a wee one I've always known that when you want to open or tighten something, it was more advisable (and comfortable) to use a cloth/shirt/towel to help with that. Thing is, I just don't really know why. I mean, it's obviously less painful, but why? Is it just that my hands haven't had enough time to g...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6jd6ey/eli5_why_does_using_a_towel_or_other_external/
{ "a_id": [ "djddqw6", "djdglir" ], "score": [ 3, 3 ], "text": [ "It's partially a grip thing - you can squeeze harder without your hand hurting, and it's part leverage - by using a cloth you increasing the effective diameter of the lid, so can apply more torque.", "The towel is not gr...
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[ [], [] ]
3yhqtt
how laser engravings on the bottom of beer mugs create bubbles.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3yhqtt/eli5_how_laser_engravings_on_the_bottom_of_beer/
{ "a_id": [ "cydlb1a" ], "score": [ 10 ], "text": [ "The term for this is nucleated glass. It creates a much larger surface area on the bottom of the glass for bubbles to form. It gives the carbonation from the CO2 dissolving a point to collect on. It results in the beer going flat much faster ...
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[ [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQBM7P_bTdk" ] ]
1x2mt1
how does a vacuum tube work? those tiny dim bulbs that are in guitar amps and high-end audio gear.
I've always wondered how they worked. Here I am at my desk with a stereo tube buffer and all I know is that it makes my audio sound louder (impedance matching??) and warmer...different. Why and how, I've never understood. How do they work and what exactly are they doing to the device they are installed on? What are...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1x2mt1/eli5_how_does_a_vacuum_tube_work_those_tiny_dim/
{ "a_id": [ "cf7kkwi" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "The hot wire at one end (the emitter) gets hot enough to randomly spit out free electrons.\n\nthe electrode the other end (the collector) is given a voltage to attract those free electrons.\n\nThe grid in the middle can be varied in voltage to at...
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[ [] ]
ddeuuu
why is crying a natural response to physical pain as a kid, but not so much as an adult?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ddeuuu/eli5_why_is_crying_a_natural_response_to_physical/
{ "a_id": [ "f2gdenj", "f2gh3bu", "f2gjrjj", "f2gpxcn", "f2grgs2", "f2gwo1r", "f2gyq3w", "f2h0nmv", "f2h3npe", "f2hgb03", "f2hjyql", "f2hmw7e", "f2hn459", "f2hno3e", "f2hnqrp", "f2htofq", "f2hugka", "f2hunqk", "f2hxbyo", "f2hyvzs", "f...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
38m9x5
my mom just told me most stocks don't pay dividends. is this the case? if so why does the stock market even exist, did we all just agree to make a gambling arena where we bet on others betting on what we bet on? and if so why does how well the company does matter to stockholders?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/38m9x5/eli5my_mom_just_told_me_most_stocks_dont_pay/
{ "a_id": [ "crw3282", "crw42k5", "crw44dq" ], "score": [ 3, 10, 3 ], "text": [ "Mom is right. Most stocks don't pay dividends. Some do, usually on some sort of schedule.\n\nYou buy stocks hoping they go up. Then when the price rises, you can sell for a profit. \n\nStock market...
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[ [], [], [] ]
2nmku9
voyager 1 is the farthest spacecraft traveled from earth, where does it find all of that fuel and how can scientists still manage to control it?
Question number 1: I understand that the Voyager 1 is a probe and there is no gravity or air resistance in space so you can move a great distance with little force but it still need the fuel to propel itself or change direction from time to time and it has been traveling for a very long time, so where does it find all ...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2nmku9/eli5voyager_1_is_the_farthest_spacecraft_traveled/
{ "a_id": [ "cmex7jm", "cmexk5m", "cmeyqbu", "cmezlo4", "cmf05u5", "cmf2gtw", "cmf31vw", "cmf38qi", "cmf5y01", "cmf6dol" ], "score": [ 62, 39, 21, 3, 3, 33, 10, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "It has very little if any fuel left. It is ...
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://xkcd.com/316/" ], [ "http://www.neilgunther.com/DeepSpace/space.html" ], [], [ "http://pluto.jhuapl.edu/gallery/animations.php" ], [ "http://voyager.jpl.nasa.gov/mission/weekly-reports/index.htm" ] ]
2ui3o8
what is the point of qr codes and why are they a thing on everything (but no-one ever seems to care or scan them?)
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2ui3o8/eli5_what_is_the_point_of_qr_codes_and_why_are/
{ "a_id": [ "co8lgye", "co8lpm1", "co8lvnu", "co8m9co" ], "score": [ 7, 2, 8, 3 ], "text": [ "QR codes are super easy to put wherever you want them and it's cheaper to print that than a whole ad detailing your business. People don't scan them much because people are not so ...
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[]
[ [], [ "http://www.visualead.com" ], [], [] ]
388xp7
why local commercials always have shitty audio quality
I've lived in the same small town for almost 20 years and there have been a lot of bad local commercials for small businesses. Some have bad editing and special effects, some have pretty good editing and special effects; but ALL of them have always had shit audio. Is there a reason for this? Or do people just not reali...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/388xp7/eli5_why_local_commercials_always_have_shitty/
{ "a_id": [ "crt8bih" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "When McDonald's is paying $10 million for advertising space, spending $250K on top for line production values is loose change.\n\nA local advertiser might be paying $1000 for their commercials, and just don't have the same kind of budget. Often,...
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63u4la
what is offensive about the kendall jenner pepsi commercial?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/63u4la/eli5_what_is_offensive_about_the_kendall_jenner/
{ "a_id": [ "dfwz8at", "dfwzenf", "dfx16fd", "dfx1rgt" ], "score": [ 60, 35, 27, 13 ], "text": [ "Reducing the complex and nuanced issue of police tensions with protesters to an oversimplified use of the platitude \"cant we all just get along, man?\". Shitty sugary sodas wo...
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
3fibcn
why do credit cards expire?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3fibcn/eli5_why_do_credit_cards_expire/
{ "a_id": [ "ctouohu", "ctoupid", "ctovffr", "ctoyfu1", "ctoyldd" ], "score": [ 106, 30, 6, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "There are a few reasons:\n\n1. The expiration date is yet another dimension of security. You've got to provide number AND date AND code-on-back for full ...
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[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
cyqi8z
why is it that all labors work on this day, but all non-labor people get a paid day off?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/cyqi8z/eli5_why_is_it_that_all_labors_work_on_this_day/
{ "a_id": [ "eytkaju", "eytkdb8" ], "score": [ 3, 3 ], "text": [ "All the government can really do is make it a Federal Holiday (which they did), which means non-critical governmnet employees will have it off as a paid holiday. They can't mandate that private companies give employees a day...
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[ [], [] ]
de0s58
how does my phone know if it's plugged in to a computer or a power bank?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/de0s58/eli5_how_does_my_phone_know_if_its_plugged_in_to/
{ "a_id": [ "f2pycc6", "f2qgnf8" ], "score": [ 5, 3 ], "text": [ "Because those cables you use to plug them in can send information either way. When you plug it into a computer, the computers first response upon recognizing there is something there is basically to ask it what it is. A powe...
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[ [], [] ]
6klohj
if a fat man with a large gut loses a lot of weight, would his legs be super-strong in proportion to his body, because they've been lifting a huge weight every day for years?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6klohj/eli5_if_a_fat_man_with_a_large_gut_loses_a_lot_of/
{ "a_id": [ "djn1qcl" ], "score": [ 12 ], "text": [ "Generally not. Muscles are as strong as they need to be for the amount of work they do on a regular basis. Unless you intentionally do more work to build them up, they level off to whatever they routinely do.\n\nIn the case above, unless the guy...
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