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Why is organic food more expensive than regular food?
You've probably noticed that organic foods cost significantly more than ...
You've probably noticed that organic foods cost significantly more than non-organic ones, but have you ever wondered why? In this episode, Marshall Brain explains how higher production costs and other factors lead to higher prices in the grocery store.
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What makes NASCAR engines different from other engines?
NASCAR engines are built for maximum efficiency, and they're much ...
NASCAR engines are built for maximum efficiency, and they're much more powerful than regular engines. Marshall Brain discusses five ways in which NASCAR engines differ from regular ones in this episode.
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Why do some doors open inward and some open outward?
In personal residences, doors typically open inward; in public buildings, ...
In personal residences, doors typically open inward; in public buildings, however, doors open outward. Why the difference? It's all about safety and security, as Marshall explains in this episode.
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Why is bamboo suddenly appearing in so many products?
These days, bamboo is used to make all sorts of ...
These days, bamboo is used to make all sorts of products, from flooring and furniture to bicycle frames. In this episode, Marshall explains why bamboo is becoming so popular -- and the advantages of using it to create consumer goods.
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Why is a cell phone called a cell phone?
Cellular phone systems divide areas of coverage into "cells," hence ...
Cellular phone systems divide areas of coverage into "cells," hence the name. Marshall Brain details how these systems work in this episode.
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How do they backlight LCD screens?
In this episode, Marshall explains the two technologies that are ...
In this episode, Marshall explains the two technologies that are used to backlight LCD panels.
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How do polymer crystals work, and why do they absorb so much water?
Polymer crystals are extremely absorbent, and that's why you'll often ...
Polymer crystals are extremely absorbent, and that's why you'll often find them in disposable diapers. Marshall explains how polymer crystals are able to absorb large quantities of liquids -- and keep you cool and dry -- in this episode.
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What is a vactrain?
Vactrains may be the next big thing in the evolution ...
Vactrains may be the next big thing in the evolution of high-speed transportation. In this episode, Marshall explains how vactrain systems will work, how close they are to becoming reality and the potential they have to impact global transportation.
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How does asphalt work, and where does it come from?
Asphalt is an extremely common, oil-derived material that's used to ...
Asphalt is an extremely common, oil-derived material that's used to pave a majority of roads in the United States. Tune in to learn more about asphalt.
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To maximize happiness, what should you spend money on?
They say that money can't buy happiness, but it can ...
They say that money can't buy happiness, but it can definitely contribute to your well-being. So what exactly should you spend your money on to maximize your happiness? Stuff? Experiences? Marshall Brain investigates in this episode.
