Q&A
The world’s largest pumpkin is ridiculously large… But is far from its biological limit
Pumpkins keep getting bigger thanks to time spent in cell division, specialised tissue, and selective breeding.
4 simple ways to finally stop catastrophising, explained by a psychologist
Catastrophe-filled thoughts are common and unpleasant. Here are some tips to manage them if they get out of hand...
Lunar eclipse 2023 tonight: Here's when to see the full Moon spectacle
And you won’t even have to stay up late to see it.
Rome wasn't built in a day... and here's why
Building a city is complicated and, even with a huge amount of manpower, building materials need time to cure and set once used.
A doctor reveals how to pick a pillow to banish back pain
Proper spinal support when asleep can bring some relief to back pain, here are some general guidelines that could help however you sleep.
World's weirdest animals: Meet the great-eared 'goatsucker' nightjar bird
These nocturnal birds have ear-like feathery tufts on their heads, excellent night vision and a call which is said to be jarring.
Why are strawberries red?
Strawberries are packed with antioxidants, which may reduce the risk of certain diseases. The redder the berry, the more antioxidants it has.
What actually causes hail?
Here's how the super speedy crystals form – and why they don't melt as they fall.
Why is salty food so satisfying?
Salt is a flavour enhancer and is used in highly processed foods which are satisfying to eat.
Why does my dog give me side eye?
Dogs showing the whites of their eyes – side eye – is a behavioural quirk our ancestors may have inadvertently bred for during domestication.
How does the fitness app on my phone know how many steps I’ve taken, especially if it’s in my bag?
Your phone can measure your movements but overestimates your daily steps.
Are there really wallabies living in the UK?
Wallabies are present in the UK after escaping from private collections and zoos.
How do varifocal glasses work?
Varifocals combine different prescriptions into a single lens.
What is a sheepshead fish?
The sheepshead fish has human-like teeth helps it consume an omnivorous diet.
Stoptober 2023: Here's what giving up alcohol actually does to your body
Going sober can positively impact your health. A doctor explains what happens when you stop drinking over days, weeks, months and years.
How do I stop hiccuping? What will actually work?
There are many techniques to try to cure a bought of the hiccups – but they all have limited scientific proof.
Should I eat dessert with breakfast to help me diet?
Eating a high carbohydrate and high protein breakfast may help you lose weight, according to some studies.
Dog years to human years: Here's how old your dog actually is
Dog math is a popular concept, suggesting your dog is rapidly ageing at seven years compared to our one. But how true is this?
Why do I go red when I’m embarrassed or have been drinking?
Blushing is a physiological response which is triggered when we are stressed.
What's inside the fifth dimension?
What else could there be beyond the three dimensions of space and one of time? And how can we begin to conceive of it?
What is the doppler effect?
这个基本概念在物理Moo的原因n sometimes looks red, and can help doctors analyse blood flow in tissues.
Anemoia: Why am I nostalgic for a time I didn’t know or a place I’ve never been?
Do you find yourself longing for the magic of yesteryear, even when you’ve not been there yourself? You’re not alone - a psychologist explains why.
In the future, will we still have jobs?
A job is an important part of how we find happiness in our lives (even if we don’t always enjoy the work). But what if the machines start doing everything for us? Helen Russell finds out if our working days are numbered.
Here’s what a high-caffeine drink like PRIME Energy actually does to your body
How long do energy drinks last? And what effect do they have on your body? A doctor explains why this popular back-to-school boost may be doing more harm than good.