Archive for January, 2009

You asked: If dinosaurs evolved into birds, why are there no modern birds with teeth? — Lee, Dusseldorf, Germany Marshall answered: It is true that all birds today have beaks. You do not see any birds with enamel. But if you look at the fossil record, you can see that birds once did have teeth. [...]

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What happens when a fan blade lets go in a large jet engine? Here’s the answer: For more info see: How jet engines work [See previous question]

We see holograms everyday on our credit cards, and they are fairly common on book covers. But how can you make them on your own? Here are several examples of DIY homemade holograms: Here’s how to make them: Abrasion Holography [See previous DIY]

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A fascinating introduction:

Here is a very detailed view of the Space Shuttle cockpit: Shuttle cockpit And the aft cockpit: Space Shuttle Aft Cockpit Here it is in 3 dimensions: If you would like to learn how to fly the shuttle: Orbiter space flight simulator For more info see: How space shuttles work [See previous photos]

This video demonstrates a fool-proof way to make sure that no one ever reads the data off your hard drive: Then you realize that this same technology can shred ANYTHING… Including: Refrigerators: Engine blocks: Whole cars:

One way to speed up any Windows installation it to disable the services that you do not need. Here are two guides that will teach you how with Windows XP: 1) The ultimate guide to tweaking useless Windows XP services 2) Windows XP x86 (32-bit) Service Pack 3 Service Configurations [See previous LS]

Here’s the answer: Why do wind turbines have three narrow blades, but ceiling fans have five wide blades? [See previous question]

Several conditions can cause comas, including brain tumors and overdoses. Tune in as the crew discusses the causes and treatments of comas — including some miraculous recoveries — in this HowStuffWorks podcast.

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You asked: How do you find the North Star? — Erik, Kingman, Ariz. Marshall answered: If you are lost out in the middle of nowhere, finding your direction is important, especially if you don’t have a compass. The North Star is there to help. If you face the North Star, you are facing true north. [...]

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