BrainStuff

Adding random access memory -- or RAM -- to your computer can, to a degree, make the machine faster. Check out this podcast from HowStuffWorks to learn how RAM affects your computer.

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The octane rating of gasoline indicates how much a fuel can be compressed before it ignites. When gas ignites due to compression, knocking occurs within the engine. Check out this HowStuffWorks podcast to learn more about octane and engines.

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Steel is an amazing metal. Many different varieties of steel exist, and some types of steel are better for certain tasks. Check out this HowStuffWorks podcast to learn how case hardening allows manufactures to get the best of multiple types of steel.

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Batteries -- particularly car batteries -- seem to go dead and then come back to life after a resting period. How does this self-recharging feature of batteries work? Find out in this episode of BrainStuff.

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When you stand at the water's edge and look out toward the horizon, how far away can you actually see? Check out this HowStuffWorks podcast to learn more about the horizon and the curvature of Earth.

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As of 1999, all TV sets sold in the Untied States are required to contain a viewer-control chip, also known as a v-chip. Check out this HowStuffWorks podcast to learn more about v-chips and television ratings.

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As hair cells form in follicles, they push other cells out of the follicle. Check out this HowStuffWorks podcast to learn more about your hair's growth and rest phases.

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If a balloon was filled by a vacuum -- rather than helium or air -- would it float? Check out this HowStuffWorks podcast to learn the science behind balloons and vacuum.

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The idea behind a gravity assist is to use a planet's motion to accelerate a satellite. Check out our article on HowStuffWorks to learn more about the effects of gravity on satellites.

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Wind farms and solar power plants are promising sources of renewable energy, but they're not as reliable as conventional power sources. In this episode, Marshall explains how large-scale storage technologies could make solar and wind power more viable.

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