The weight of a carat (200 milligrams), standard unit of measurement for gemstones, is based on the weight of the carob seed.
51
Termites are being researched as a possible renewable energy source as they can produce up to 2 litres of hydrogen from ingesting a single sheet of paper, making them one of the planet’s most efficient bioreactors.
24
The gas that gives rotten eggs their distinctive foul smell may slow ageing and block damaging chemical reactions inside cells, according to scientists in China.
5
A coal power station puts 100 times more radiation into the air than a nuclear power plant producing the same amount of energy.
7
The bark of an older redwood tree is fireproof.
65
Some toothpastes and deodorants contain the same chemicals found in antifreeze.
38
Hot water can freeze faster than cold water.
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