The Short Answer

The Short Answer

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The Short Answer episodes

  • How Did Ancient People Cut Their Nails Without Nail Clippers?

    Venture back in time with us on this episode of the 'The Short Answer' podcast, as we uncover the fascinating history of nail care! Presented by ScienceABC, we delve into humankind's ingenious practices over the centuries, examining how our ancestors kept their nails in check with rudimentary tools or even no tools at all. From the stainless-steel clippers we're familiar with today, to ancient techniques used by early humans, and even to naturally occurring grooming behaviors in animals, it's a journey spanning thousands of years. Don't miss out on exploring these intriguing insights into a seemingly simple, yet rich aspect of human evolution and self-care practices. Because, as it turns out, grooming goes far beyond vanity—it's an essential part of our nature!


    Music Credits:

    Cocktail Hour by Aaron Kenny Youtube Audio Library

    Vodoo Call by CineMedia https://elements.envato.com/vodoo-call-UHM8XAT 

    Jungle Safari by SCOREWIZARDS https://elements.envato.com/jungle-safari-LLVZCM2


    References:

    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmatsci.2015.06.001

    https://books.google.com/books?id=tosrAAAAYAAJ

    https://books.google.com/books?id=__OlCgAAQBAJ

    https://doi.org/10.1080/00224545.1933.9921554


    Original Article Link:

    https://www.scienceabc.com/humans/before-clippers-how-did-humans-trim-their-nails.html


    Voice Over Artist:

    John Staughton ( https://www.fiverr.com/jswildwood )

    Intro by: Natasha/elevenlabs.io


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    4 min
  • Why Are We Afraid Of Spiders?

    In this captivating episode of "The Short Answer", we unravel the twisted threads of arachnophobia, the intense fear of spiders. Venture with us into the labyrinth of human emotions to understand how our brains trigger fear and how past experiences and cultural factors play a role. We also shed light on the historical beliefs that intensified our aversion towards these eight-legged creatures. But that's not all - we also delve into recent scientific studies, revealing the possibility that our fear of spiders could be a biological inheritance. Where is the fine line between psychological phenomena and survival instincts coded in our DNA? Tune in to find out.


    Music Credits:

    Suspense Music by MikeStown https://elements.envato.com/suspense-music-BNHQW7K

    African Documentary by RedLionProduction https://elements.envato.com/african-documentary-687S5QJ

    Medieval Tavern Adventures by LukePN https://elements.envato.com/medieval-tavern-adventures-DFXNVNS

    Science Tech by MusicLabProduction https://elements.envato.com/science-tech-4J4M6PQ


    References:

    https://www.cbs.mpg.de/Fear-of-spiders-and-snakes-is-deeply-embedded-in-us

    https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2017.01710

    https://doi.org/10.1001/archpsyc.60.7.702

    https://blogs.unimelb.edu.au/science-communication/2021/04/28/160/


    Original Article Link:

    https://www.scienceabc.com/humans/why-are-we-afraid-of-spiders.html


    Voice Over Artist:

    John Staughton ( https://www.fiverr.com/jswildwood )

    Intro by: Natasha/elevenlabs.io


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    5 min
  • Why Wheels Appear To Move Backwards At High Speeds?

    Get ready for a wild ride as we delve into a mind-bending visual phenomenon in this episode of "The Short Answer" podcast, presented by ScienceABC. Ever noticed how car wheels seem to spin backwards when they're moving at high speeds? Is it magic, an optical illusion, or a scientific phenomenon? In 'Why do Wheels Appear To Move Backwards at High Speeds?', we not only observe this enigmatic occurrence but also explore its roots. We'll delve into the mysteries of human perception, discuss the intriguing 'Wagon Wheel Effect' seen in movies and TV, and investigate two compelling theories that try to explain this baffling experience. Enjoy this thrilling exploration into the captivating world of motion and perception that promises to be a treat for your curiosity!


    Music Credits:

    Mysterious by Lowtone https://elements.envato.com/mysterious-DSBCL6Z

    Cyberpunk by Lowtone https://elements.envato.com/cyberpunk-7XAA436

    LoFi by Lowtone https://elements.envato.com/lofi-X2XZ6ZJ


    References:

    http://faculty.washington.edu/tcchen/EE235/Labs/EE235-Lab6.pdf

    https://wx.erau.edu/faculty/mullerb/Wx365/Aliasing/aliasing.html

    http://15462.courses.cs.cmu.edu/spring2020/article/2


    Original Article Link:

    https://www.scienceabc.com/eyeopeners/wheels-appear-spinning-backwards-high-speeds.html


    Voice Over Artist:

    John Staughton ( https://www.fiverr.com/jswildwood )

    Intro by: Natasha/elevenlabs.io


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    4 min
  • Do Wounds Heal Faster Covered Or Uncovered?

    In this enlightening episode of 'The Short Answer', we tackle the age-old question, 'Do Wounds Heal Faster Covered Or Uncovered?'. We debunk common myths about wound healing, give a detailed analysis on the body's healing process, and explore the scientific studies supporting the benefits of covering a wound. Listen in as we unravel the truth behind scab formation, the role of platelets, and the importance of a moist environment for speedy healing. Learn about the potential risks of leaving wounds uncovered, and uncover the optimal way to care for minor injuries. Informative and compelling, this episode of 'The Short Answer' is designed to enhance your understanding about your body's extraordinary ability to heal.


    Music Credits:

    Cascades by Purpleplanet https://elements.envato.com/cascades-M5NL238

    Meltwater by Purpleplanet https://elements.envato.com/meltwater-V8532EQ

    Blind Truth by Purpleplanet https://elements.envato.com/blind-truth-S53L67Q

    Emotional Cinematic Bright Days by marcobellonimusic https://elements.envato.com/emotional-cinematic-bright-days-6XZC8KL


    References:

    https://doi.org/10.1038/193293a0

    https://www.drjeffreyjanis.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/A-Brief-History-of-Wound-Care-PMID-16799371.pdf

    https://doi.org/10.1089/wound.2012.0412

    https://doi.org/10.1016/0002-9610(94)90002-7


    Original Article Link:

    https://www.scienceabc.com/eyeopeners/is-it-better-to-cover-a-wound-or-leave-it-exposed-to-air.html


    Voice Over Artist:

    John Staughton ( https://www.fiverr.com/jswildwood )

    Intro by: Natasha/elevenlabs.io


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    4 min
  • Does "100% Humidity" Basically Mean That Air Has Become Water?

    Dive into the mysterious world of weather phenomena with us in this episode of "The Short Answer" podcast! We delve deep into one of the most mentioned, yet often misunderstood terms in weather reports: 'humidity'. What does it mean when the weatherman says the humidity is 78% or even 100%? Does that mean you're swimming through the air? In this discussion, we unravel the intricacies of humidity in easy-to-understand language while touching upon concepts such as absolute, relative, and specific humidity. Tune in to gain a thorough understanding of 'what humidity really is and how it affects you.' Enlightening, engaging, and exciting - this episode promises to quench your thirst for knowledge!


    Music Credits:

    For The Background by CrazyTunes https://elements.envato.com/for-the-background-6G7PNGF

    Relax by Korolkov https://elements.envato.com/relax-EG6SVFQ

    Majestic Moment by SCOREWIZARDS https://elements.envato.com/majestic-moment-YXXHU66

    Inspiring And Cheerful Strings by music2noise https://elements.envato.com/inspiring-and-cheerful-strings-R4HRCRC


    References:

    http://ww2010.atmos.uiuc.edu/(Gh)/guides/mtr/cld/dvlp/rh.rxml

    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mpaic.2008.11.016

    https://doi.org/10.1111/ina.12052


    Original Article Link:

    https://www.scienceabc.com/eyeopeners/does-100-humidity-basically-mean-that-air-has-become-water.html


    Voice Over Artist:

    John Staughton ( https://www.fiverr.com/jswildwood )

    Intro by: Natasha/elevenlabs.io


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    4 min
  • Can Turbulence Cause An Airplane Crash?

    Join us on this episode of "The Short Answer" podcast, where we alleviate your fears by taking an in-depth look into the phenomenon of turbulence. We explain the scientific concept of turbulence, delve into its common causes, and discuss its effects on airplane travel. Our conversation navigates through the various degrees of turbulence and their respective impacts on the plane and passengers. Not only do we emphasize the rarity of encountering severe situations but also highlight the resilience of modern commercial airplanes, built to withstand these natural occurrences. By the end of this episode, you will discover that turbulence, although uncomfortable, poses more of a concern to passengers' comfort than their safety. Tune in and allow us to turn your turbulent concerns into smooth understanding.


    Music Credits:

    Haunted by lucafrancini https://elements.envato.com/haunted-B2T94HG

    Modern String Quartet by AirFamily https://elements.envato.com/modern-string-quartet-C7GVAM4

    Haydn & Me by AGsoundtrax https://elements.envato.com/haydn-me-B3GY8ET

    Uplifting Classical Cellos by Orchestralis https://elements.envato.com/uplifting-classical-cellos-77E6YYA


    References:

    https://blogs.nasa.gov/armstrong/2011/02/11/post_1296777084480/

    https://www.faa.gov/newsroom/turbulence

    https://www.weather.gov/source/zhu/ZHU_Training_Page/turbulence_stuff/turbulence/turbulence.htm

    https://www.faa.gov/lessons_learned/transport_airplane/accidents/N724US


    Original Article Link:

    https://www.scienceabc.com/eyeopeners/can-clear-air-turbulence-crash-airplane-safety-belt.html


    Voice Over Artist: John Staughton ( https://www.fiverr.com/jswildwood )

    Intro by: Natasha/elevenlabs.io


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    5 min
  • Can Plants Grow In Artificial Light?

    In this enlightening episode of 'The Short Answer', presented by ScienceABC, we delve into the hidden world of plant growth and its interplay with light. Explore with us as we discuss how sunlight and artificial light impact photosynthesis, the pros and cons of artificial lighting like LEDs, and how these lights affect plant processes beyond just growth. We'll unpack recent research findings and peer into the potential future – a future where understanding light can potentially revolutionize indoor farming. This episode shines a light on the question: 'Can Plants Grow In Artificial Light?' and promises to provide education, advocacy, and inspiration for all plant lovers. Join us as we unearth the answer in this fascinating discussion about photosynthesis, plant growth, and the role of technology.


    Music Credits:

    Gentlest Piano by Crypt-of-Insomnia https://elements.envato.com/gentlest-piano-EYP7SFJ

    Ambition by SyncHits https://elements.envato.com/ambition-4LRVALK

    Elegant Display by SCOREWIZARDS https://elements.envato.com/elegant-display-KXHCQDJ

    Hopeful by alexbird https://elements.envato.com/hopeful-TNCW34Z


    References:

    https://earthsky.org/human-world/artificial-light-plant-growth/

    https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2013.0243

    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2006.02.010

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11537611/


    Original Article Link:

    https://www.scienceabc.com/nature/can-you-grow-plants-in-artificial-light.html


    Voice Over Artist: John Staughton ( https://www.fiverr.com/jswildwood )

    Intro by: Natasha/elevenlabs.io


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    4 min
  • Does Giving Blood Help You Lose Weight?

    Welcome to another episode of 'The Short Answer' presented by ScienceABC! In this episode, we delve into an unexpected yet thought-provoking topic – the correlation between blood donation and weight loss. Moving beyond the perception of blood donation as a charitable act, our discussion explores its potential contribution to weight loss and the scientific processes behind it. From the fascinating journey of red blood cells' regeneration to the effect it has on your body's energy burning capacity, join us as we unfold the untold benefits of blood donation. We also touch upon its role in maintaining a balance of iron in the blood, providing protection against cardiovascular disease and cancer. Tune in, and let's unlock these benefits together!


    Music Credits:

    Soft Acoustic Guitar by Dredstudio https://elements.envato.com/soft-acoustic-guitar-5MEUA9S


    References:

    https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/how-to-donate/how-blood-donations-help/blood-needs-blood-supply.html

    https://www.blood.co.uk/the-donation-process/after-your-donation/how-your-body-replaces-blood/

    https://doi.org/10.1124/jpet.105.094854


    Original Article Link:

    https://www.scienceabc.com/humans/does-giving-blood-help-you-lose-weight.html


    Voice Over Artist: John Staughton ( https://www.fiverr.com/jswildwood )

    Intro by: Natasha/elevenlabs.io


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    4 min
  • Do Electronic Appliances Use Energy When They're Off?

    In this insightful episode of 'The Short Answer' podcast by ScienceABC, we take a deep dive into the mysterious world of energy consumption by electronic devices when they're 'off'. Our episode uncloaks the hidden energy vampires in your home, from charging gadgets to digital displays. We illuminate the frequently overlooked aspects of 'standby' energy consumption, the overcharging of devices, and how power strips affect your energy usage. In our quest for answers, we also touch upon practical strategies you can adopt to track and lower your phantom power use. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, an eco-warrior, or even someone just curious about the world around them, this episode is designed to enlighten and equip you with facts that can ultimately help you save both energy and money. Let's get plugged into the conversation!


    Music Credits:

    Calming by penguinmusic https://elements.envato.com/calming-Y7MLDSH

    Fast Inspirational Piano by Crypt-of-Insomnia https://elements.envato.com/fast-inspirational-piano-NLBX6KD

    Documentary by AudioChoice https://elements.envato.com/documentary-38QH56Y

    Slow Epic by StudioKolomna https://elements.envato.com/slow-epic-4KQG9JL

    Calm And Positive by alexbird https://elements.envato.com/calm-and-positive-TLERNY3


    References:

    https://fg.ed.pacificu.edu/wainwright/Publications/MisconceptionsArticle.06.pdf

    https://www.nrdc.org/stories/energy-vampires-keep-your-devices-wasting-energy-and-money

    https://standby.lbl.gov/


    Original Article Link:

    https://www.scienceabc.com/eyeopeners/appliance-plugged-wall-socket-turned-off-electricity-usage-trickle-charge.html


    Voice Over Artist: John Staughton ( https://www.fiverr.com/jswildwood )

    Intro by: Natasha/elevenlabs.io


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    4 min
  • How Do We Know The Temperature On Earth Millions Of Years Ago?

    In this illuminating episode of 'The Short Answer', presented by ScienceABC, we travel millions of years into Earth's past to explore a fascinating aspect of climatology. How did our planet's climate look in prehistoric times? How do scientists estimate temperatures from eras when no thermometers existed? Join us as we delve into the world of climate proxies - powerful natural archives that hold the secrets of ancient temperatures. From ice sheets and tree rings to fossilized pollen and seafloor sediments, our journey takes us through a variety of intriguing landscapes. Together, we'll discover how these different forms of preserved physical evidence provide insights into Earth's climatic history and help in reconstructing temperature patterns. Whether you're a weather enthusiast or a science novice, this episode is sure to leave you with a greater understanding of our planet's climate and the pivotal role of climate proxies. Tune in and take a step back in time!


    Music Credits:

    Underwater by soundEGO https://elements.envato.com/underwater-RTJ39AK

    Ambient Relaxing by KakaduCreation https://elements.envato.com/ambient-relaxing-DHL7LQY

    Slow Motion Background Music by EliansProductions https://elements.envato.com/slow-motion-background-music-36JDLNW

    Ballet Piano Score Classical Music by LuckyBlackCat https://elements.envato.com/ballet-piano-score-classical-music-PU57X9Q


    References:

    https://www.e-education.psu.edu/earth103/node/751

    https://serc.carleton.edu/microbelife/topics/proxies/paleoclimate.html

    https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/features/Paleoclimatology_OxygenBalance

    https://doi.org/10.1016/S0921-8181(03)00095-X


    Original Article Link: 

    https://www.scienceabc.com/eyeopeners/how-do-we-know-the-temperature-on-earth-millions-of-years-ago.html


    Voice Over Artist: John Staughton ( https://www.fiverr.com/jswildwood )

    Intro by: Natasha/elevenlabs.io


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    5 min

About The Short Answer

From the publisher's feed

Science gets a bad rep for being boring, difficult and for very smart people (see: nerds). But that doesn't have to be the case. At ScienceABC we believe that if science is communicated simply and made relatable and fun, it can be for everyone. As Micheal Jackson said best, "as simple as ABC."