BrainStuff
iHeartPodcasts
Whether the topic is popcorn or particle physics, you can count on BrainStuff to explore -- and explain -- the everyday science in the world around us.
Episodes
Mentioned books
May 3, 2013 • 7min
What's the best way to back up a computer's hard disk?
Your computer's hard disk stores all your information, but what happens if it gets damaged or dies? In this episode, Marshall Brain explains why it's important to back up your hard disk and weighs the advantages and disadvantages of three backup methods. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
May 1, 2013 • 4min
How does bulletproof glass work?
Bullet-resistant glass, commonly referred to as ""bulletproof,"" is a special type of glass designed to resist bullets. Tune in to this episode to learn how different types of bullet-resistant glass work. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Apr 29, 2013 • 2min
What does tear gas do?
You've probably heard of tear gas before, but did you know that Mace is a form of it? Learn more about the three commonly used types of tear gas -- how they work and what they're used for -- in this podcast from HowStuffWorks.com. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Apr 24, 2013 • 3min
What are the fastest hard disks available today?
Hard disk drives and connections have been getting faster and faster. In this episode, Marshall discusses the evolution of the hard disk and the shockingly fast drives available today. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Apr 5, 2013 • 3min
Why should you wash new clothes before wearing them?
Some clothes have tags that say "wash before wearing" or "wash separately." Find out why it's sometimes a good idea to wash new clothes before you wear them in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mar 15, 2013 • 4min
How cell phones work
Today's cell phones are amazingly compact, complex devices that provide a wide array of services. Discover the origins of these technological wonders, and the technology that makes them work, in this episode of BrainStuff. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mar 13, 2013 • 5min
How does a toaster work?
Toasting is a tasty way to increase the durability of bread, and automatic toasters are a convenient way to make toast. Learn more about the chemical change that turns bread into toast and the mechanism behind toasters in this episode of BrainStuff. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mar 8, 2013 • 4min
Why do most cars use gasoline instead of diesel?
Diesel engines are more efficient than engines that run on gasoline, yet they've never really caught on in passenger cars in the United States. Discover the many reasons why diesel engines aren't the norm in this episode of BrainStuff. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mar 4, 2013 • 3min
How does Caller ID work?
Almost all cell phones have a capacity for caller ID, which identifies the phone number at the other end of a telephone connection -- but how does it work? Listen in as Marshall Brain breaks down the basics of this surprisingly simple technology. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb 1, 2013 • 3min
Where did the hamburger get its name?
The word 'hamburger' seems to imply that pork is a main ingredient, but in fact, this famous beef sandwich got its name from a city. Learn more about the origins and spread of the hamburger in this episode of BrainStuff. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
