Is it dangerous to ignite your farts?
READER QUERY: “I have a friend who claims that he has set light to his farts. Can this be done, and is it dangerous?” The gases released during flatulence are indeed flammable. Gut…
The smell of fresh-cut grass is an attack warning
We love the smell of fresh-cut grass. But in reality what we are smelling is a warning signal being released by plants under attack. The pheromones emitted by freshly-mown grass are known as…
Why do our eyes water when we chop up onions?
Onions emit a sulphur-containing gas when they are chopped. The gas irritates the cells of the eye, which react by producing tears that are intended to clear away the substance. In ordinary onions,…
Scientists discover how bees develop optimised traplines
Brainiac bumblebees buzzing with mathematical solutions.
