1290 questions and answers in this section
Can you explain why copper changes color over time?

Can you explain why copper changes color over time?

Copper is a metal that, when left exposed to ambient air, gradually begins to change color. Why? Because it naturally reacts with the oxygen present...

Read full answer

Explain why do the oceans have marine currents?

Explain why do the oceans have marine currents?

The Earth constantly rotates on itself, and this has consequences for the oceans. Due to this rotation, a force called Coriolis force emerges. This force...

Read full answer

Explain why the smell of rain is so unique?

Explain why the smell of rain is so unique?

The main responsible for the typical smell of rain is called petrichor, a combination of plant oils deposited on the ground during dry periods and...

Read full answer

Explain why clouds are white during the day and red in the evening?

Explain why clouds are white during the day and red in the evening?

When sunlight passes through our atmosphere, it encounters tiny particles and air molecules along its path. These tiny obstacles scatter the light in all directions: this is...

Read full answer

Explain why moonlight rays can sometimes cause phosphorescence in water?

Explain why moonlight rays can sometimes cause phosphorescence in water?

The moonlight, although in truth a simple reflection of the sun, is sometimes enough to trigger phosphorescence in certain microscopic marine organisms, most often bioluminescent...

Read full answer

Explain why ancient Chinese used gunpowder for fireworks?

Explain why ancient Chinese used gunpowder for fireworks?

Gunpowder was discovered in China around the 9th century, by chance, by alchemists primarily searching for a potion of immortality. They unintentionally mixed saltpeter, sulfur, and charcoal,...

Read full answer

Explain why elephants are essential for ecosystems?

Explain why elephants are essential for ecosystems?

When elephants regularly pass through an area, they become true landscape architects. By opening paths through forests, they create essential natural corridors for many other...

Read full answer

Explain why do some small volcanic islands suddenly emerge from the ocean?

Explain why do some small volcanic islands suddenly emerge from the ocean?

Some small islands suddenly emerge from the ocean due to intense underwater volcanic eruptions. When a submarine volcano erupts, it blasts lava and debris at...

Read full answer

Explain why fog forms in specific locations.

Explain why fog forms in specific locations.

Fog is nothing more than a cloud that decides to linger close to the ground. For it to appear, it is enough for the air...

Read full answer

Explain why fire is red, orange, or blue depending on its temperature.

Explain why fire is red, orange, or blue depending on its temperature.

The color of fire primarily depends on its temperature. The higher it is, the more the flame turns blue. A rather "cool" fire (around 800°C...

Read full answer