1295 questions and answers in this section
Explain why the ink of a ballpoint pen sometimes smudges?

Explain why the ink of a ballpoint pen sometimes smudges?

Ballpoint pen ink is a mixture mainly composed of dyes or pigments, mixed with an oily or viscous solvent. This viscosity, in other words the...

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Explain why do stars twinkle more in winter than in summer?

Explain why do stars twinkle more in winter than in summer?

In winter, the marked contrast between the very cold air near the ground and the warmer layers of air higher up enhances atmospheric turbulence. The...

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Explain why certain species of ferns grow on tree trunks?

Explain why certain species of ferns grow on tree trunks?

These ferns exhibit clever adaptations to grow directly on trees. They often develop aerial roots capable of capturing moisture present in the air or water...

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Explain why is the city of Houtouwan (in China) invaded by vegetation after its abandonment?

Explain why is the city of Houtouwan (in China) invaded by vegetation after its abandonment?

In the 1980s, Houtouwan was a small fishing village on Shengshan Island in China. The inhabitants primarily lived off fishing, in a place bordered by...

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Explain why do some aquatic plants float on the surface of the water?

Explain why do some aquatic plants float on the surface of the water?

Aquatic plants float due to the principle of Archimedes: they experience an upward buoyant force equal to the weight of water they displace. In other...

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Explain why can some lakes form under the ice?

Explain why can some lakes form under the ice?

Water under the ice seems strange, right? Yet, it happens when the glacier rests on a rocky base with natural hollows and depressions. These depressions...

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Explain why Amazonian tribes use specific plants for rituals?

Explain why Amazonian tribes use specific plants for rituals?

For generations, Amazonian tribes have orally transmitted their knowledge about specific plants. Often through training with an experienced shaman or healer, this precious knowledge includes...

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Explain why volcanic ash clouds can be visible for thousands of kilometers?

Explain why volcanic ash clouds can be visible for thousands of kilometers?

During a major eruption, ash clouds can reach impressive heights, averaging between 10 and 20 km in altitude. The most violent volcanoes even eject ash...

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Explain why some stickers leave a sticky residue on windows?

Explain why some stickers leave a sticky residue on windows?

The adhesives used in stickers are mainly composed of polymers. These large molecules with long, flexible chains provide a certain flexibility, allowing them to spread...

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Explain why coffee can leave a residue at the bottom of the cup?

Explain why coffee can leave a residue at the bottom of the cup?

Coffee contains many chemical components such as caffeine, essential oils, acids (for example chlorogenic acid), proteins, as well as aromatic compounds that give coffee its...

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