Life's Little Mysteries: Science questions, answered
Latest about Life's Little Mysteries
What is the largest known prime number?
By Charles Q. Choi last updated
There are infinitely many prime numbers, but the biggest one we know of goes by the name M82589933 and contains more than 24 million digits.
Which are rarer: diamonds or emeralds?
By Hannah Loss published
The rarity of precious gemstones comes down to the geologic process of their formation.
Why didn't the Vikings colonize North America?
By Owen Jarus published
The Vikings landed in what is now Newfoundland, Canada around the year A.D. 1000. So why didn't they colonize the region like other Europeans did centuries later?
What's the scientific explanation for 'ghost encounters'?
By Patrick Pester published
People all over the world believe they've seen or heard a ghost, but there's no scientific evidence for spirits, hauntings or the paranormal. So what's behind these "encounters"?
Which came first: viruses or bacteria?
By Victoria Atkinson published
Viruses and bacteria have been around for billions of years, but which came first?
How many times does a heart beat in a day? What about in a lifetime?
By Mindy Weisberger published
Celine Dion sings that "my heart will go on," but how many times does it actually beat in a day or even a lifetime?
Why does meat have more protein than vegetables?
By Marilyn Perkins published
The biological needs of plants and animals affect their cells' protein content, but the story goes deeper than that.
Why do cats 'chatter'?
By Victoria Atkinson published
Some cats chatter, oftentimes when they see prey. But why?
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