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Today's Mind-blower

10 People You Probably Didn’t Know Were Black

What do Alexandre Dumas, Pete Wentz and Alexander Pushkin have in common? We're not talking about literary talents -- they're all people whose African ancestry is not well-known. Who else is on the list?

Brain Candy

science
How can whale vomit help me retire?
If you're wandering through a thrift store and happen upon a large mass of some sort of waxy substance, take a closer look. It could be the rare "floating gold" of the sea: whale vomit. Find out how cetacean upchuck can help you retire.

science
Will we ever unite quantum mechanics with general relativity?
Einstein showed us a mind-blowing way the universe works, while Max Planck and his gang showed us how particles on the atomic and subatomic levels work. But one doesn't explain the other. So there must be a larger theory encompassing them ... or not?

science
10 Crazy Uses for Completely Frictionless Surfaces
Just imagine the possibilities: a world free of gum walls and full of bartenders speeding drinks along the bar. But that's really just the tip of the (super-slick) iceberg.

money
On the Money: Test Your Knowledge on the World's Craziest Currencies
Humans have assigned value to all kinds of things through the ages, from stones to spices. There’s even money made for potential encounters with alien life. How much is the intergalactic value of a Space Quid? The answer may surprise you!

science
10 Complete Falsehoods about Food
Don't eat after 7 p.m. Drink eight glasses of water each day. Organic food is better for you. Watch as we explode these and other well-worn food myths.

science
What's the difference between a semi-automatic weapon and a machine gun?
The term "semi-automatic weapon" is used in the U.S. media often. But what does it really mean? Is it just another term for a machine gun?

science
Top 10 Myths About the Brain
You only use 10 percent of that big, wrinkled mass of smarts -- unless you listen to Mozart. At least, that's what we've heard about the brain. But how many common brain beliefs are just plain wrong?

science
10 Awesome New Inventions You'll Never Hear About
Despite all the Slinkies, Band-Aids and BIC pens out there, many patented inventions that push the boundaries of innovation will likely never see widespread use, like this car that’s grown organically and emits pure oxygen.

money
How to Make a Million Dollars
The Economist reported there were 10 million millionaires in the world in 2011 -- a record number. Want to be one, too? Researchers have found quite a few common traits that most millionaires possess.

electronics
Real Tech or 'Star Trek'?
Which of the imagined 23rd-century gadgets from the original "Star Trek" and its movie and TV sequels remain futuristic, and which technologies have already been invented? Try our quiz.

people
10 Far-out Charismatic Leaders (and the Trouble They Caused)
Throughout history, charismatic leaders have emerged and changed the world -- for better or for worse.

science
10 Misconceptions About the Flu
Lots of Americans believe that getting the flu is no worse than getting a cold. Or that the flu vaccine can give them flu. We separate truth from fiction.

computer
Popular Web Site Pictures
Yeah, yeah, you’re the king of the Interwebs, but we bet you aren’t familiar with all of the sites that made our gallery. Or are you? Only one way to find out.

science
Is there a psychological reason for people being mean on the Internet?
We've all seen "flame wars" on the Internet. Maybe we've been the victims or the perpetrators, too. But what causes people to say things online that they would never say in person?

science
10 Innovations in Winemaking
People have been making (and drinking) wine for 8,000 years -- which means lots of innovations both now and in the past, from creating Champagne to quirky wine labels.

science
What is water boarding?
Water boarding has hit the headlines again, thanks to the buzz surrounding “Zero Dark Thirty,” Kathryn Bigelow’s Oscar-nominated historical drama. What does the controversial interrogation technique entail?

money
10 Ways to Make Money on the Side
With the exception of winning the lottery, making serious money takes time and effort. But there are legitimate ways to make extra cash to supplement your day job income. Check out 10 ways you can moonlight and end up with some dough to show for it.

science
What if the Earth stopped spinning?
You can say goodbye to the seven continents and hello to days that seem infernally long. What else awaits you on a spin-free Earth?

science
Can you store solar energy in rust and water?
Sometimes the ideas get a little crazy in the race to find clean and inexpensive energy, like tying solar energy to hydrogen production in a palm-sized device. And sometimes those crazy ideas actually work.

science
What if we ended war?
Would we stick flowers in our hair and dance in the street? Or twiddle our thumbs and wonder what to do with all that new free time? Join us as we ponder a world without war.

computer
How much do you know about Chrome?
The Google Chrome Web browser is full of fun and useful features. How much do you know about Chrome? Surf through this quiz to find out!

money
10 Most Expensive Presidential Perks
The U.S. president rakes in a salary of $400,000 and lives in a 132-room mansion. With a full-time pastry chef and private cinema at his or her disposal, the leader of the free world wants for nothing. Which of the perks are the priciest?

computer
What's inside my computer?
Ever wonder why your computer works the way it does? We did, too. So we took one apart to see what all of it does. So what's inside a computer?

money
Why would the U.S. mint a trillion-dollar coin?
The idea of minting a trillion-dollar coin to pay the U.S. national debt seemed intriguing, if far-fetched. Though it was nixed by the Fed and the Treasury, could it have worked – and why?

people
Was It a Flop or a Hit?
If you're an average American, you spend about four hours watching TV daily, which works out to 13 years in the course of a typical lifetime. Test your knowledge of TV hits and flops with our quiz.

science
10 Evil Robots Bent on Destroying Humanity
"Hahaha ... we've come to destroy your world!" Or so it must read in the chapter of the "Evil Robot Handbook" on what to say when you first encounter humans. Here are 10 robots you really don't want to mess with.
auto
How quickly could you change a tire?
Changing a tire can be tricky if you don't know what you're doing. How knowledgeable are you when it comes to changing a tire? Take this quiz and find out!

science
The Explosive Volcano Quiz
Fiery explosions, boiling lava, hot ash spewing everywhere -- total disaster is probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think "volcano." And, yes, that is certainly a possibility. But do you know what’s really going on when a volcano erupts?

computer
Tech Test: Is your computer secure?
Computers can make life easier, but they also can put your private information at risk. Find out how much you know -- or don't know -- about computer security by taking our quiz.

entertainment
Stuff You Should Know's Mafia Movie Quiz
Stuff You Should Know's mafia episode was so rich with movie references we decided to cook up a quiz. Test your knowledge of cement shoes and tommy guns.

entertainment
How well do you know Frankenstein?
Frankenstein's monster is all up in your pop culture, fighting werewolves and letting you know what he thinks about fire (it's bad). So grab a torch, storm the walls of this quiz, and see if you have what it takes to come out the victor.

computer
Tech Talk: RAM Quiz
How much RAM is in your computer? Do you need more? And if you do, how do you know? Take the quiz to learn everything there is to know about RAM.

home
Could you build your own house?
As the saying goes, home is where the heart is. But just how does one go about building a home in the first place? Find out some fun facts about this detailed process by taking the quiz.

entertainment
Celebrity Challenge: Famous Artists
Artists are the visual historians of society, transforming ideas and events into paintings, drawings, sculptures and more. Certain artists have wielded their craft so successfully that their work, in turn, has influenced history.

money
What are the best- and worst-paying jobs?
It's pretty clear that a doctor makes more money than a fast-food worker. But does a surgeon bring home more bucks than an anesthesiologist? Test your knowledge with the ultimate best- and worst-paying jobs quiz.

electronics
Internet Myth vs. Internet Truth
From Big Brother security myths to the fabrication of what the Internet actually is, cyberspace is full of fictions of its own. Can you call a myth's bluff? Test your knowledge on what's real and what's not in the globe's largest electronic world.

people
Are you a serial killer expert?
The topic of murder stirs up fear in almost any context, and serial killing tends to multiply that fear to the tenth degree. Test your knowledge with this serial killer quiz.

entertainment
Who said it: Darth Vader or Obi-Wan Kenobi?
Squared off on opposite sides of the Force, it might seem like Darth Vader and Obi-Wan Kenobi have nothing in common. One is tall, dark and deadly, and the other's, well, not.

science
The Ultimate Hydraulic Machines Quiz
Hydraulic equipment is amazing in its strength and agility. From common backyard machines to the huge machines you see on construction sites, hydraulics make quick work of even the most difficult tasks. How much do you know about hydraulic machines?

adventure
Could you survive in the wild?
Being stranded in the wilderness may make for a good movie, but in reality, it's a harrowing experience. Staying alive may require you to build a shelter, start a fire and even eat bugs for nourishment. Do you have what it takes to survive this quiz?

entertainment
Are you a football expert?
Grab your pigskin: It's time for football trivia. We don't mean winningest coaches, Heisman winners or team mascots, but rather the nitty-gritty of the gridiron. How does the QB make that ball spiral? Wouldn't "handball" make a better name than "football"? Pad up and get on the field ... the football quiz field, that is.

home
Fact or Fiction: The World's Most Expensive Bathroom Fixtures
Sure, a bubble bath can make your bathroom feel luxurious. But wouldn't an HDTV make it even nicer? Take a look at some of the most expensive and outrageous bathroom fixtures -- can you tell fact from fiction?

entertainment
Fact or Fiction: Hollywood vs. History
It's time to step into the time machine and travel back through history. Of course, if you hope to survive, you're going to want to separate what you actually learned in history class from all the historical inaccuracies in the movies.

science
Alpha, Beta or Gamma? This quiz is nuclear radioactive!
We live in a radioactive world, and we're not just talking about the times when a nuclear plant is melting down and scaring the heck out of us. How much do you know about the ABGs (or alphas, betas and gammas) of nuclear radiation?

entertainment
Stuff You Should Know's Nicotine Quiz
If you're an American and you're reading this, then there's about a 30 percent chance you're addicted to nicotine. If you listened to this podcast, then you should have no problem scoring well.

computer
Tech Talk: Java Quiz
Java is a popular programming language that's relatively easy to use. Are you a programming guru or a novice? Take our quiz to find out.

auto
How much do you know about engine performance?
Whether racecar driver or casual commuter, odds are you're going to be concerned about engine performance at some point in your driving career. But can you even tell the difference between a camshaft and a stick shift? You will once you take the engine performance quiz.

entertainment
Are you a Monopoly mogul?
Monopoly, one of the world's most popular board games, is available in 111 countries and in 43 different languages. It has a complex set of original rules, as well as a number of common player-created rules (otherwise known as house rules). How well do you know them -- and how effectively does your family break them? Test your knowledge by taking our quiz.

science
Spaced Out: Astronaut Quiz
Astronauts have a reputation for being the brave and skilled few willing to risk their lives by strapping themselves aboard a rocket and blasting into outer space. But before they can don the orange jumpsuits and go into orbit, they must endure an intense selection and training process. How did guys like Neil Armstrong and John Glenn make it into space?

electronics
Think you know your retro tech?
As far as gadgets go, the world completely changed during the 1980s and '90s. Think about it -- we started the '80s without VCRs and answering machines, and by the end of the '90s, most of us were running around with tiny cell phones in our pockets. Can you guess which of these iconic gadgets was introduced in which decade?

auto
From Crazy to Classic: Which concept cars became classic?
The popular image of concept cars is that they're not just leading edge, but bleeding edge: a little too "out there" to be viable, roadable vehicles anytime soon. But the concepts in this quiz show you can package innovative pizzazz with production-ready practicality.
science
10 Scientists Who Were Their Own Guinea Pigs
People donate their bodies to science all the time, usually after death. Here, we highlight 10 scientists who experimented on themselves while they were still alive.

history
10 Historically Inaccurate Movies
These films look like blooper reels when you compare them to history books. From anachronisms to flat-out lies, creative license reigns in this list.

science
Top 10 Moments in Space Bathroom History
When you think about space travel, you don't usually take time to wonder how astronauts go to the bathroom. However, the annals of aeronautic history abound with tales of space bathroom mishaps. Here are 10 of our favorites.

money
10 Costly Food Recalls
Food is something we can't live without. But sometimes instead of nourishing our bodies, it can actually kill us. And it's no cheap (or easy) task to get that food off the market.

electronics
10 Longest-running TV Shows
Some TV shows are lucky to stick around for a season -- these did that and then some. What made them the longest-running dramas and comedies in television history?

adventure
Top 10 Survival Tools
Let's say your vacation tour group ditches you in the outback. Or your car slips off an icy road in the middle of nowhere. Will you have the tools to save your life?

auto
10 Most Expensive Classic Cars
Gentlemen, start your checkbooks! These classic cars each have a history all their own and a price tag to blow your mind. The starting point is $6.9 million if you want one of these beauties parked in your garage.

auto
Top 10 Improvements in Engine Design
For more than 150 years, automotive engineers have been continually working on ways to improve the internal combustion engine. What are some of the biggest improvements they’ve made?

electronics
10 Off-the-wall iPhone Apps
There are thousands of apps for the iPhone, and they let you do everything from play games to keep up with stock prices. Some of them are real head-scratchers, though. Do you use any of these weird apps?

science
5 Post-shuttle NASA Programs
By the time space shuttle Atlantis touched down after its final voyage in July 2011, a major shift in strategy for space exploration was already under way. What are NASA's newest programs?

science
The Top 10 Game-changing Military Technologies
These 10 technologies changed war and the course of history as we know it. Some of these battlefield innovations, like adding grooves to gun barrels, are surprisingly simple. So what else made our list?

people
10 of the World’s Most Infamous Cults
Maybe you've heard about Kool Aid or the Family Jams -- but what do you really know about some of the world's most infamous cults?

science
10 Remarkable Exoplanets
There's a lot more out there than our measly solar system, and astronomers are becoming more adept at finding those worlds all the time. Here are 10 of their coolest discoveries.

money
Top 10 Most Popular Infomercials
Who can forget all of the famous pitch lines, gizmos and unintentional hilarity packed into late-night paid programming? Infomercials are showy, earnest and often outright deceptive. What are 10 of the best?

entertainment
Top 10 Mind-bending Strategy Games
Some of the best strategy games -- those that require thinking rather than luck or physical ability -- have been around for centuries, while others have been released in the past decade. Which ones stand out from the pack?

money
10 High-paying Dirty Jobs
These jobs probably weren't on your list of what you wanted to be when you grew up. But now that you're in the rat race, you may wonder if a dirty job is more profitable than your desk jockey career.

money
10 Tips for Staying on Budget
You have a big expense coming up. You need a better car or home, or you want to go back to college. What do you do? Borrow, borrow, borrow -- right? Well, maybe not. Working off of a budget just may save your sanity -- and credit.

money
10 Telecommuting Careers that Can Make You Rich
Proof that we're living in the incredible future: We can conduct serious business in our pajamas. But what work-from-home jobs are the most lucrative?

home
Top 10 Appliances We Can't Live Without
In a pinch, you could probably do without most of the appliances in your home -- but would you want to? Life would certainly be different without these 10.

computer
5 Events Guaranteed to Crash Twitter
When a bunch of Twitter geeks get excited about the same thing at the same time, their chatter can crash the whole service. And that's when the dreaded Fail Whale appears.

auto
10 Most Dangerous Distracted Driving Habits
Distracted drivers: We're not trying to scold you or hasten the dawn of a vehicular nanny state. We're just pointing out some of the most dangerous habits behind the wheel.

adventure
Top 10 Everyday Items You Can Repurpose in a Survival Scenario
You may not be envious of MacGyver's mullet, but having a talent for surviving the elements with only a wristwatch, socks and a soda can is pretty cool.

computer
10 Worst Computer Viruses of All Time
Most computer-savvy people know about viruses and how to prevent an infection. But what are the most destructive viruses of all time?

adventure
10 Ways to Attract Bears to Your Campsite
It's late at night, you're lying in your tent, and all you can think about are the many reasons a bear might plod into your campsite to eat you. We'll share 10 of them with you.

computer
10 Addictive Games for iPad
Casual games are meant to be played for just a few minutes, but some are so addictive you end up playing for hours.

auto
Top 10 Advantages of Biofuels
As gas prices continue to rise and global warming becomes more pervasive, more people are using biofuels as a way to save money and decrease their consumption of fossil fuels. And while they're definitely not perfect, they have many advantages over types of fuels.

money
10 Gadgets That Can Save You Money
From smartphone applications to coffee makers, there are many ways simple gadgets can save you money.
home
Annual Flowers
Annuals are primed to germinate quickly when conditions are right, grow speedily, and then make loads of flowers, fruits, roots and seeds. Learn all about annual flowers in this gallery.

entertainment
Basketball
Famous ballers all have unique personalities, playing styles -- even nicknames. Check out pictures of basketball legends, such as Michael Jordan, Larry Bird and Shaquille O'Neal, here.

science
Countries with Perfect Climates
Paradise comes in many shapes, sizes and locales. From rain forests to mountain tops, we've uncovered the top countries with perfect climates and included them in this gallery.

science
Timeline of Sex
The how-tos of sex haven't changed much over the ages, but our understanding of what's actually happening (and why) took off during the Renaissance. How have humanity's thoughts and beliefs about sex evolved throughout history?

adventure
National Parks
Since the first national parks were established in the United States, they've been getaways for relaxation and adventure for humans -- and a safe haven for their wildlife. Take a journey through America's national parks.

auto
Alternative Fuel Vehicles
From electricity to saltwater to air, these vehicles run on all kinds of things you'd never imagine as fuel. Check this gallery to see what might power your car in the near future.

adventure
Alaska
Alaska's name comes from the Aleut word for "Great Land" -- a fitting description for this land of dramatic mountains, rivers and glaciers. What is it like on America's Last Frontier?

science
Japan Tsunami and Earthquake
Many areas were completely destroyed by the 9.0-magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami that struck northeastern Japan on March 11, 2011. Browse these haunting pictures of Japan's destruction following the earthquake and tsunami.

entertainment
Stuff You Should Know Live on Sirius/XM
Stuff You Should Know conducted a live broadcast on July 4, 2011. Take a look at pictures of Josh & Chuck from Stuff You Should Know, live on Sirius/XM.

people
Public Enemies
The bad, the worse and the worst. You name it, we've caught 'em. Learn about some of the most notorious criminals in U.S. history, from gangsters to con men to bandits in love.

entertainment
Olympic Mascots: From Cute to Crazy
From Schuss to Waldi, Olympic mascots help add personality and fun to a pageantry-filled event. What have been some of the most memorable mascots over the years?

auto
Custom Cars
Ready for a wild ride through the world of custom cars, then and now? See some incredibly unique vehicles in these pictures.

computer
Computers
Computers have come a long way in the past few decades -- from filling up a room to slim and sleek designs that can nearly fit in your pocket. Take a look at some of the old and new models and learn about all the different features and types of these amazing machines.

adventure
Winter Sports
From skiing to skeleton, there are lots of exciting sports that rely on cold weather. This gallery will give you a glimpse at thrilling -- and dangerous -- sports in the snow.

adventure
Lighthouses
Lighthouses kept sailors safe from crashing their ships on rocky coasts -- until modern technology made them obsolete. Curious about some classic American lighthouses that are still standing? Learn more about them in these pictures.

auto
Harley-Davidson Logos Through the Years
Harley-Davidson tank logos have changed many times over the years. Take a tour of Harley history through these images.

science
The History of Human Flight
Although humans have dreamed of flight for centuries, it wasn't until the dawn of the 20th century that man was finally able to leave the ground. This gallery highlights some of the biggest milestones in aviation.

history
Lewis and Clark
The Corps of Discovery set out to explore the Missouri River and made its way across the continent to the Pacific Ocean. See more pictures of Lewis and Clark's expedition here.

auto
Future Sports Cars
From Porsches to BMWs, sports cars come in myriad styles, but they all have one thing in common: speed. See the sleek, high-horsepower vehicles you have to look forward to in these pictures.

entertainment
Olympic Games
Track and field, gymnastics and soccer are all sports you can see at the Olympic Games. Check out pictures of some of the most exciting Olympic events.

auto
Car Engines
Car engines range from small, economic 4-cylinders to insanely powerful 16-cylinder models. Ready to learn more? Take a look at these pictures to see how engine components work together.

home
Home Design
Home design styles are as diverse as the people who come up with the blueprints. From the zeroHouse to houseboats, dive into the exhilarating topic of home design in this image gallery.

history
Royalty
From England to Nepal, many nations still maintain a monarchy, and members of these royal families are treated like, well, royalty. See pictures of modern royal figures in this gallery.

auto
Exotic Cars
These exotic car pictures feature some of the rarest, most expensive cars from makers like Ferrari, Lamborghini and Porsche. Click your way through this gallery to see the amazing features and amenities these cars have to offer.

electronics
Virtual Reality
Virtual reality gear is often mistaken for a kitschy video gaming technology, but it can actually be used for a variety of applications. Learn about a few of its uses in this gallery.

adventure
Australia Pictures
G'day, mate! From the Outback to the Great Barrier Reef, see some of the most incredible sites in the land down under in these pictures.

home
Home Office Decor
How can you create a home office that is organized and distraction-free? Browse this image gallery for inspiration and ideas.
videos
Is alien life possible?
It's hard to believe that we're the only life-form in this vast universe, and scientists are fervently seeking proof of other life-forms. Watch these videos to learn about the technologies used to track down Earth-like planets, and find out what clues we've already found.

videos
From the Very Beginning: Big Bang Theory
Ever wonder if you can go backwards in time and start over? According to the Big Crunch Theory, you can repeat history -- in a couple billion years. Learn all about the Big Bang and what could happen if the universe keeps on expanding.

videos
Did Joseph Stalin really want a monkey army?
From UFOs to psychic powers and government conspiracies, history is riddled with unexplained events. Get a closer look at the Stuff They Don't Want You to Know in these videos.

videos
Is shipwreck exploration a quick way to get rich?
There are millions of shipwrecks on the ocean floor, but not all are valuable. What does it take to find the good stuff? Before you set out on the seven seas to find your retirement cushion, check out these clips.

videos
Could global warming trigger a new ice age?
How warm is too warm? The idea of global warming is well-known, if not well-understood. Get answers to all your global warming questions in these clips.

videos
Stuff to Blow Your Kid's Mind
Monsters. Rainbows. Magnets. Volcanoes. Kids love 'em. (We do, too.) These videos showcase a variety of wild, weird and fascinating topics to make your offspring's jaws drop.

videos
"Look into my eyes. ... You are getting sleepy. … Very sleepy."
When you think of hypnotism, you might think of an evil genius exerting mind control over humans turned into selfless, obedient zombies. Is there any truth to that image? And can you really use hypnotism instead of anesthesia?

videos
What do you use to pave an airport runway?
Whether it's the ABG Titan Road Paver or the Odyssey Launch Platform, the Mega Machines series covers some of the world's largest, most heavy-duty vehicles. Check out this playlist for a closer look.

videos
How do astronauts pray?
From religion in space to digital immortality, the future is full of profound challenges and astonishing opportunities. Join the staff of HowStuffWorks.com as we explore some of the most promising -- and perplexing -- global issues of the future.

videos
From Sea to Shining Sea, Digitally
Take a ride down Route 66, explore Yosemite National Park and cruise through the Everglades with the hosts of The Coolest Stuff on the Planet as they explore the United States' most amazing sites.

videos
10 Ways to Contact a Ghost
How can physical mediums convene with the spiritual? Do zombies really exist? What are the origins of the legend of Bloody Mary? Find out in these videos.

videos
Calculus? Gravity? Laws of Motion? All in a day's work.
Isaac Newton may very well be the greatest scientific genius to ever walk the Earth. He was also competitive, temperamental and fascinated with alchemy. Learn more about Newton and his contributions to science in these videos.

videos
From Earmuffs to Zippers
Learn about the history and future of fashion, from high heels to blue jeans, with these videos from the Stuff of Genius and Stuff From the Future.

videos
Why aren't the keys on my computer in alphabetical order?
Whether it’s the flexible straw or the search engine, every invention has a story. Get a closer look at the inventors responsible from everything to dishwashers to dynamite in this animated series by HowStuffWorks.com.

videos
King Tut's Revenge
Was it an ancient curse or mere coincidence that caused the death of Lord Carnarvon's archaeological team following their discovery of King Tut's grave? Learn about King Tut and other famous mummies in these videos.

videos
You vs. Wild. Who wins?
Poisonous plants, malaria-carrying mosquitoes, hungry beasts five times your size and no water for miles. You get the picture: The wilderness is no place to get lost. If you want to make it out alive, you need to brush up on your skills.

videos
Beware of ... Leopard?
People with a penchant for adopting wild animals often find their lives are in danger. Watch these "Fatal Attraction" videos to see what can go wrong when precious pets suddenly turn against their caretakers.

videos
Ninjas Don't Show Up on Radar
Secretive and silent, the ninja strikes fear into the hearts of peasants and emperors alike. Watch these videos for ninja fact, ninja fiction, and some of the most clever, terrifying weapons used by the shadowy mercenaries of ancient Japan.

videos
Science of the Deep
The depths of the ocean's might hold the last great frontier for scientists. What's actually down there? See strange creatures and learn about early human expeditions under the sea in these clips.

videos
What if you could control lightning?
Superpowers aren't just the stuff of comic book legend anymore. Watch these clips to discover the science behind everything from magnetic levitation to telekinesis to laser weapons.

videos
10 Criminals Who Really, Really Messed Up
Was Lizzie Borden guilty? What's the big deal with WikiLeaks? Podcasters from Stuff You Should Know and Stuff They Don't Want You to Know reveal the truth.

videos
When Volcanoes Wake Up
Volcanoes are some of nature's most awe-inspiring displays, with everything from exploding mountaintops to rivers of lava. See how volcanoes are formed and watch the devastation caused by eruptions in these videos.

videos
10 Ways to See Into the Future
Can dreams predict the future? What about smoking a little nutmeg for clairvoyance? Do animals have a sixth sense that allows that lets them make accurate predictions? Watch these clips for all the answers.

videos
How to Make an Old Home Look New Again
It can be costly -- and a lot of work -- to remodel a home. Before you grab the sledgehammer, get valuable tips from the professionals in these videos.

videos
Scaredy-cats Need Not Apply
Every few years, some thrill-seeker invents a new sport while in search of that adrenaline high. It might involve jumping out of planes, rolling down hills in giant balls or taking high speeds to the next level. Would you dare try any of these modern pastimes?

videos
Why Your Hands Might Turn Against You
Can humans cause earthquakes? What the heck is alien hand syndrome? Join Chuck and Josh as they explore the some of the coolest (and weirdest) Stuff You Should Know in their television shorts on Science.
entertainment
Word Bubbles
The Word Bubbles Game will challenge your verbal agility and put your vocabulary and memory to the test. How many words can you come up with? Exercise your mind and play Word Bubbles today!

games
Arctic Tri Peaks Solitaire
In this version of the classic solitaire game, you play through a mountain of cards, eliminating them as you go.

games
Sudoku Ultra
Other sudoku games will let you use cheats, either with or without a penalty. But this game is a different story: one with no cheats!

games
Mahjongg Dimensions
Play this classic game in 3-D! Just when you think you're stuck, you can rotate the cube to reveal more matches to clear. Mahjongg Dimensions is all about creativity, speed and 3-D memory.

games
Bookworm
Link letters together to make words. Longer words are worth more points! How high can you score?

auto
Bike Build Game
If you've ever wanted to build a bike from scratch, you're not alone. Try your hand at piecing together this motorcycle in the Bike Build Game. Once you have everything in place, you can see the real thing!

games
Podcast Word Search
Are you the ultimate HowStuffWorks podcast fan? Prove it in this word search game with 10 exciting levels, numerous categories and backgrounds inspired by the podcasts.

games
Monkey Gems
BenBen the monkey needs your help! It looks like he got himself in some trouble with the local snakes by stealing their rattles. Help him fend off the colorful reptiles one by one in this fun and exciting match-making adventure! With three fantastic chapters, gorgeous visuals and engaging sound, Monkey Gems is one game you'll want to play over and over again!

games
Spliterature
Watch out for puns, twists, turns, jokes and general trickery as you try to score as many points as you can in this word game.

games
Alu's Revenge
Alu's Revenge serves up solid gameplay, where stacked stones continue to fall as you use your quick wits and speedy strategy to open the tomb and reveal the jewels inside.

games
Word Grid
Do you consider yourself a master wordsmith? A superior speller? A vocabulary virtuoso? If you answered "yes" to any of those questions, then Word Grid is the game for you.

games
Zuma's Revenge!™
Take a shot at the all-new excitement of Zuma's Revenge!™, the smashing sequel to one of the biggest hits of all time!

games
Carniball
An amusement park classic comes to your desktop. Get some ball-tossing target practice without leaving your chair.

games
Kritter Krawler
If you're in the mood for a grid-filling game, look no further. You'll find yourself running from mechanical monstrosities as you try to fill in as much of the game board as you can. Keep an eye out for power-ups while you're playing to give yourself a nice boost of speed to help you clear the board even faster!

games
Letters from Nowhere
Visit an old cemetery, a provincial town and other unlikely locations to discover more of these strange letters. With puzzling mini-games, four special help tools and an extra quest to unlock a second mode, you'll be thrilled for hours playing Letters from Nowhere.

games
Roads of Rome 2
Travel through strange new environments, overcome natural disasters, and help appease the gods and their demands. If you succeed, Caesar will be grateful and the gods are sure to smile down on the citizens of Rome.

games
Addiction Solitaire
Find out why this speedy variant of a classic card game is called "Addiction Solitaire."

games
Mystery of Mortlake Mansion™
Numerous hours of challenging discoveries await you in 34 beautiful scenes, 30 mini-games and a host of tricky puzzles.

games
Super TextTwist
Figure out the combination with the most letters and move to the next level. A classic word scramble for a digital world. Take a break and exercise your brain all at once!

games
Crossword: Master
Are you ready to master a classic crossword challenge? Our online crossword puzzle game is an excellent way to spend some free time building your vocabulary and problem-solving skills, as well as a great way to keep your mind quick and flexible.

entertainment
Color Match
Put on your sweatbands and get ready to train your brain! Improve your concentration by matching words and colors in the Color Match Game. Flex your brain and focus your mind, play Color Match today!

games
Jigsaw Puzzle: Advanced
With these free jigsaw puzzle games, you won't have to worry about losing a piece under the dining room table.

science
Cannon Challenge
Take charge of your own Non-Line-of-Sight (NLOS) Cannon, the revolutionary gun that represents the future of U.S. Field Artillery.

games
TextTwist 2
Super TextTwist revolutionized casual word games. Now, TextTwist 2 takes it to the next level. Featuring 25,000 words to find, amazing new graphics, and nearly endless family fun, TextTwist 2 is a must-have for word game fans.

games
The Clockwork Man
Peel back the curtain and visit a 19th century world that never existed in this beautiful hidden object game! The Clockwork Man takes seek-and-find gameplay to new dimensions.

games
Plants vs. Zombies
Plant powerful perennials and defend your brain from hordes of hungry zombies in the all-new Plants vs. Zombies -- Game of the Year Edition. The zombies are on the march for tasty brains and only you can stop them!

games
Ranch Rush 2
Enjoy the island fun of Ranch Rush 2, a new tropical farming sequel to the hit game! More than 120 levels of farm-frenzied fun await you in this exciting new adventure.