giz explains
Science

What Really Happens When You Swallow Your Gum?

You’ve heard the warnings: if you swallow gum, it will stay in your digestive system for nearly a decade, which would mean there’s a decent chance you’ve got some hanging out in your gut right now.

April 18, 2012
Science

Why Are There So Many Tornadoes This Year?

The US is the most tornado-friendly landmass on Earth. Its got just the right mix of moisture, instability, lift and wind shear to provoke more than 1000 of the dangerous storms annually.

March 28, 2012
Cars

What Exactly Is That New Car Smell?

The smell of a new car is intoxicating. It reminds us of money and shiny objects. It evokes that golden period before repeat coffee stains, mouldy Tupperware and our boot’s transformation into a Good Will depository change the way we feel about our car.

March 21, 2012
Computing

Why Printers Suck

Some say that printers were sent from hell to make us miserable. We cowtow to a machine’s anodyne griping about paper jams and ink levels, and still, after reloading the sheets and replacing the blue cartridge, the obstinate piece of machinery refuses to carry out its orders.

March 16, 2012
Science

Why We Yawn, And Why It’s So Contagious

Your grandmother says it’s because you watch too much TV. Your teacher thinks it’s because you’re bored. And that creepy guy on the bus just slapped you with a phonebook in an attempt to exorcise the devil living in your molars. All because you’re yawning.

March 13, 2012
Geek Out

Why Daylight Savings Time Is Pointless

Ugh. You’re up an hour early, your body hates you for it, and even a litre of coffee can’t get your day on track. Daylight savings sucks. But you know the worst part? It doesn’t have to be like this.

March 8, 2012
Cameras

What Is Temporal Noise Reduction?

One of the new iPad’s video features — along with 1080p recording and video stabilisation — is temporal noise reduction. Apple claims it will improve the quality of footage in low-light conditions. OK, but what the hell is it?

Science

Is High Fructose Corn Syrup Really So Evil?

High fructose corn syrup seems to be in every freaking thing you buy at the supermarket these days. That’s because humans love sweet, and it’s cheaper than sugar.

March 6, 2012
Science

What Is An Earthquake?

Who isn’t afraid of being waken abruptly by a shaking building whose roof is caving in? Or a huge tsunami sweeping though your town? Earthquakes are terrifying. But what exactly are they? Why do earthquakes happen?

March 1, 2012
Software

How To Get Windows 8 Right Now

The beautiful Windows 8 Consumer Preview is upon is, and although it’s not the final version, it’s getting close. This isn’t just for developers — it’s for you. So get downloading and start using Microsoft’s amazing new beginning.

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