Ever Wonder Why We Laugh?
How can a funny cat video turn an otherwise civilized human into a chattering monkey? What purpose does laughter actually serve, what makes it so infectious, and why does it feel so good?
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WILD WONDERS |Axolotls – Smiley Little Superheroes
The axolotl is remarkable both for its derpy little smile and its incredible powers of healing. This critically endangered Mexican salamander has the unique ability to not only regrow limbs but also repair any damaged organs. Scientists are now searching the axolotl’s complex genome in hopes that we may one day harness these regenerative powers to cure disease, treat injuries and even reverse the aging process!
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Ever wonder why the Dollar $ign is written with an S?
Why is the Dollar sign symbolized with a struck-through S and not a D? While some believe it’s a symbol formed by U and S (for United States), its actual origins might surprise you. Not only was the Dollar born in 15th century Bohemia, but its $ymbol is that of a Spanish peso!
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Ever wonder what makes fingerprints unique?
Whether thwarting our criminal efforts or unlocking our phones, our fingerprints play an important role in our identity. Even identical twins have non-identical fingerprints! But by nature, the swirls and ridges on our fingertips aren’t meant to identify us, but instead serve the more mundane purpose of aiding touch. So what triggers their one-of-a-kind design?
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Ever wonder what dust is made of?
File this under the category of things you never asked for a good reason. Dust is a pain, but at first glance, its nothing more than a harmless gray powder that you occasionally remember to wipe off of your household surfaces. But knowing what lurks under the microscopic surface might trigger your OCD.
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Ever wonder why some months have 30 days and some 31? And what’s up with February?
Who decided a year has to be 365 days, or that we need 12 months that almost perfectly alternate between 30 and 31 days (I’m looking at you July and August). And for that matter, why did February end up becoming the black sheep of the calendar?
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