WTF Fun Fact 13378 – Volcanoes of Mars

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The volcanoes of Mars are part of the planet’s dramatic landscape. Mars is also home to the solar system’s largest known volcano – Olympus Mons.

The many volcanoes of Mars

Mars’ volcanic landscape provides valuable insights into its geological history and the processes that have shaped its surface. The volcanoes of Mars have played a significant role in shaping the planet’s topography and its potential for supporting past or present life.

A variety of volcano types, including shield volcanoes, volcanic domes, and stratovolcanoes, exist on Mars. Shield volcanoes, such as Olympus Mons, exhibit a broad, low-profile shape and gentle slopes. Successive eruptions of fluid lava gradually build up the volcano’s size, facilitated by the low gravity of Mars, resulting in exceptionally large shield volcanoes that dominate the planet’s surface.

In addition to shield volcanoes, other volcanic structures on Mars provide unique insights. Volcanic domes form as viscous lava accumulates around a vent, creating a steep and rounded top. Scattered across the Martian landscape, these structures offer clues about past volcanic activity and its nature.

Olympus Mons

Olympus Mons stands as the largest volcano in the solar system. Its colossal size and unique characteristics make it a captivating subject of scientific study. Olympus Mons is a shield volcano, formed by repeated volcanic eruptions over millions of years. Unlike the steep-sided stratovolcanoes found on Earth, shield volcanoes are characterized by their broad, gently sloping profile.

Olympus Mons reaches an astonishing height of approximately 13.6 miles and spans a diameter of about 370 miles. This dwarfs Earth’s largest volcano, Mauna Loa in Hawaii.

The surface of Olympus Mons reveals intricate lava flow patterns, resulting from multiple eruptions over time. The volcano’s low topographic relief and extensive lava flows contribute to its shield-like shape.

An explosive field of research

While Mars is believed to be geologically less active than Earth, evidence suggests that volcanic activity on the planet occurred in the past and may even persist to a limited extent today. The discovery of volcanic features and geological clues shed light on the planet’s volcanic history.

Volcanic eruptions on Mars have had a significant impact on its environment. Outpourings of lava, release of volcanic gases, and ash deposition have influenced the composition of the Martian atmosphere and potentially affected the planet’s climate.

The study of Martian volcanoes provides scientists with a deeper understanding of the processes that shape rocky planets. By comparing volcanic activity on Mars to that on Earth and other celestial bodies, researchers can unravel the underlying mechanisms driving volcanic eruptions and their implications for planetary evolution.

—WTF fun facts

Source: Olympus Mons – NASA Mars Exploration

WTF Fun Fact 13377 – Tu Youyou and the Nobel Prize

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Tu Youyou is a Chinese scientist and pharmaceutical chemist whose groundbreaking work in the discovery of artemisinin revolutionized malaria treatment. Her contributions have had a significant impact on global health, saving countless lives. Interestingly, she sought (and found) the award-winning compound in the corpus of Ancient Chinese Medicine.

According to the Nobel Prize website (cited below): “She is the first mainland Chinese scientist to have received a Nobel Prize in a scientific category, and she did so without a doctorate, a medical degree, or training abroad.”

The training of Tu Youyou

Born in Ningbo, Zhejiang, China, Tu’s interest in medicine may have started after she had to miss two years of school after a bout of tuberculosis.

Tu’s interests eventually landed her at Beijing Medical College. There, she studied pharmacology – a modern science – but with a traditional backbone. At college, she learned how to classify medicinal plants and extract their active ingredients in order to learn more about their chemical structure. She would do this with many of the thousands of plants in the ancient Chinese medical handbooks.

Tu Youyou went to work at the Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 1955, after graduation.

She was first asked by the Chinese government to help find a treatment for malaria during the Vietnam War. Vietnamese soldiers were dying in droves because the disease had become resistant to the standard treatment – chloroquine. But this posed a global health threat. She joined the battle against the disease after Chairman Mao Zedong launched a project called Project 523 in 1967.

Discovering a new malaria treatment

In 1969, Tu became the head of Project 523 and traveled to Hainan Island in southern China. She had to leave her two young children behind for three years to study the disease in its deadly habitat.

After she returned, the scientific work began.

In Beijing, Tu and her team were facing a difficult situation. Over 240,000 compounds had already been tested for their potential use in anti-malarial drugs, but none worked. That’s when they returned to the ancient Chinese medical text.

A reference to sweet wormwood (known as Artemisia annua) would turn out to be the key. She had identified it for its ability to help with “intermittent fevers” – a key symptom of malaria. It had been used in China around 400 AD.

Turning nature into medicine

Through meticulous experimentation, Tu Youyou and her team successfully isolated a compound from Artemisia annua that demonstrated potent anti-malarial properties. She named this compound artemisinin. It was very successful in killing malaria in laboratory tests.

After lab tests came clinical trials, which were also successful. The great thing about artemisinin was that it helped kill malaria while minimizing the development of resistance to the medication. Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs), which combine artemisinin derivatives with other anti-malarial drugs, have since become the gold standard in malaria treatment worldwide.

Tu Youyou’s groundbreaking discoveries earned her numerous accolades and recognition. In 2015, she was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, becoming the first Chinese scientist to receive this prestigious honor. Her contributions have had a profound impact on global health, particularly in regions heavily burdened by malaria.

Tu Youyou’s impact on the future

Artemisinin and its derivatives have transformed malaria treatment and played a crucial role in reducing the mortality rate of this deadly disease. Their widespread use has significantly contributed to the decline in malaria-related deaths worldwide. Tu Youyou’s work continues to inspire scientists, researchers, and healthcare professionals in the ongoing fight against malaria.

Despite the remarkable success of artemisinin-based therapies, challenges remain in the battle against malaria. The emergence of drug resistance, particularly in Southeast Asia, underscores the need for ongoing research and innovative approaches to combat this persistent global health issue. Scientists continue to study artemisinin and explore novel drug combinations to stay ahead of the evolving malaria parasite.

—WTF fun facts

Source: Tu Youyou – The Nobel Prize website

WTF Fun Fact 13376 – Dawn Chorus

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Even if you’ve never heard of the phenomenon known as the dawn chorus, you’ve likely heard the sound itself. As the sun rises in spring and summer, a symphony of sounds fills the air when birds engage in a vocal performance that serves various important purposes.

What is the bird’s dawn chorus?

The dawn chorus is a collective effort involving multiple bird species, each contributing its unique voice to the melodic tapestry. From the lilting trills of songbirds to the resonant calls of woodpeckers and the distinctive melodies of thrushes, the symphony represents a rich diversity of avian vocalizations. But they aren’t singing to us.

One of the primary functions of this natural symphony is territorial defense. Birds seize the opportunity to assert their ownership over specific territories. By filling the air with their songs, they establish clear acoustic boundaries that communicate to other birds that the area is already claimed. This territorial proclamation helps to minimize conflicts and maintain an orderly distribution of resources.

Another purpose of the dawn chorus is mate attraction. During the breeding season, male birds use their vocal prowess to woo potential mates. By singing prominently in the early morning hours, males not only showcase their physical fitness but also advertise their presence to females. The melodious performances serve as impressive displays of strength, stamina, and genetic quality, enticing potential partners and ensuring successful breeding opportunities.

Communicating through song

The dawn chorus also serves as a means of communication within bird communities. It allows individuals to stay in touch with their flock members, enhancing social cohesion and facilitating cooperative activities.

Birds utilize specific calls, songs, and vocalizations to convey messages about foraging locations, potential threats, and other important information. The intricate language of the dawn chorus helps birds maintain social bonds and promote the collective well-being of their group.

The composition and timing of the dawn chorus can vary significantly from region to region. Different bird species have their preferred time of day for vocalizing, resulting in a dynamic and ever-changing soundscape. In some areas, certain species may dominate the chorus, creating a distinct acoustic signature unique to the local ecosystem.

While the dawn chorus is most prominent during the breeding season, it can occur throughout the year, albeit with less intensity and diversity. Factors such as weather conditions, habitat characteristics, and the presence of migratory species can influence the overall dynamics of the chorus.

Scientists and bird enthusiasts continue to study the dawn chorus to unravel its secrets. By examining vocal patterns, deciphering communication codes, and exploring the impacts of environmental factors, researchers gain insights into the complex social dynamics and ecological significance of these morning concerts.

Such knowledge aids in conservation efforts, ensuring the preservation of habitats that support thriving bird populations and the continuation of this captivating phenomenon.

—WTF fun facts

Source: The Dawn Chorus | Bird Mating Season — RSPB

WTF Fun Fact 13375 – Alpha Brain Waves and Creativity

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The relationship between alpha brain waves and creativity has long fascinated researchers and people seeking to tap into their creative potential. While findings are not yet conclusive, evidence suggests that alpha brainwaves may play a role in facilitating creative thinking and idea generation.

What’s the connection between alpha brain waves and creativity?

Brain waves are rhythmic patterns of neural activity that researchers measure with electroencephalography (EEG). Different brainwave frequencies seem to correspond to specific states of consciousness, such as alertness, relaxation, or deep sleep.

Alpha brain waves have a frequency range of 8 to 12 hertz. They are commonly observed when individuals are in a relaxed and calm, but wakeful, state. These brain waves are most prominent when the eyes are closed, during meditative states, or when relaxing. While the exact relationship between alpha brainwaves and creativity is still being explored, several studies have indicated a potential connection.

One theory suggests that alpha brain waves may facilitate creative thinking by promoting a state of relaxed attention and reducing external distractions. When individuals are in this relaxed state, they may be more open to making connections between seemingly unrelated ideas. This can foster divergent thinking—the ability to generate a wide range of novel ideas.

Creativity is complex

The exact mechanisms underlying the relationship between alpha brain waves and creativity remain unclear. So it’s important to approach these findings with caution. Creativity is a multifaceted and complex phenomenon that involves various cognitive processes, environmental factors, and individual differences.

The role of alpha brain waves, although intriguing, is just one piece of the puzzle. Moreover, it’s worth noting that creativity is not solely dependent on alpha brainwave activity. Research also suggests that theta and gamma brainwave frequencies play a role in creative thinking.

Additionally, factors such as domain expertise, knowledge, motivation, and environmental influences all contribute to the creative process. Despite the ongoing scientific exploration, some individuals have reported subjective experiences that align with the potential benefits of alpha brainwave activity on creativity.

Relaxing for creativity

Many artists, writers, and musicians claim to enter a “flow” state—an optimal state of consciousness characterized by effortless focus, heightened creativity, and a sense of being in the zone—when their minds are relaxed and receptive. While the research is still developing, there are practical strategies that individuals can explore to potentially harness the benefits of alpha brainwave activity.

Researchers associate practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and deep relaxation techniques with an increase in alpha waves and may create a conducive mental state for creative thinking. Additionally, creating an environment that minimizes distractions while promoting relaxation—such as quiet spaces, nature settings, or dedicated creative zones—may facilitate a relaxed state of mind and potentially enhance creative output.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “How brain waves enable creative thinking” — Medical News Today

WTF Fun Fact 13374 – The Basal Meristem

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Have you ever wondered why most grass is able to stand straight up without flopping over until it’s very long? It’s because of something called the basal meristem.

Anatomy of grass – the basal meristem

Gras is much more than a simple ground cover. This seemingly humble plant boasts a remarkable adaptation that allows it to thrive even in the face of grazing and cutting. The basal meristem is grass’s unique way of growing from the base.

The basal meristem, located at the base of the grass plant, is a specialized tissue responsible for its continuous growth and regenerative capabilities. Many other plants rely on apical meristems at the tips of their shoots. But grasses have evolved to grow from the base, giving them an edge in challenging environments.

The benefits of a basal meristem

This adaptation is particularly beneficial in the context of grazing and cutting. When herbivores nibble on the aboveground parts of the grass, they remove the exposed leaves and stems. However, the basal meristem remains intact, allowing the plant to bounce back quickly. It is from this resilient meristem that new shoots emerge, ensuring the ongoing growth and survival of the grass.

The ability to regrow from the base makes grass an ideal choice for grazing pastures, where animals feed on the vegetation. The constant nibbling from herbivores triggers the basal meristem to produce new shoots, providing a continuous food source for livestock and wildlife.

Reasons to mow your lawn

Grass’s remarkable regenerative abilities are not limited to grazing situations. Lawn maintenance, such as mowing, also benefits from the basal meristem’s unique growth pattern. When a lawnmower cuts the visible blades of grass, the basal meristem remains untouched, ready to initiate the regrowth process. This allows lawns to maintain their vibrant appearance, quickly recovering from the trimming.

The frequency and height at which the lawn is mowed can indirectly affect the health and growth of grass. Regular mowing at the appropriate height promotes a healthier lawn by removing the top portion of the grass blades and stimulating lateral growth. This encourages the development of a denser and more resilient turf. Mowing also prevents the grass from becoming too tall and promotes the allocation of resources to the basal meristem, where new shoots originate.

However, it’s important to note that cutting the grass too short, known as scalping, can have negative effects on the basal meristem and overall grass health. Scalping can damage the meristem and hinder regrowth, leading to a weakened lawn.

Restoring grasslands

The basal meristem’s resilience also plays a crucial role in the restoration and management of grasslands. Whether it’s rehabilitating degraded landscapes or controlling invasive species, understanding the basal meristem’s mechanisms is essential. By cutting the aboveground parts of unwanted plants, resource managers can harness the regenerative power of the basal meristem to encourage the growth of desired grass species and promote ecosystem health.

In addition to its regrowth capabilities, the basal meristem contributes to the overall hardiness of grasses. This adaptation enables grass to endure and recover from environmental stresses such as drought, fire, and physical disturbances. The continuous growth from the base allows grasses to maintain their vigor, even when exposed to challenging conditions. This resilience makes them essential players in stabilizing soil, preventing erosion, and providing valuable habitat for numerous plant and animal species.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Grass Biology” — Grasses of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

WTF Fun Fact 13373 – Moon Garden

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Sometimes it takes shedding a little moonlight on your garden to give it a magical quality. To fully appreciate the ethereal allure of the night, garden enthusiasts have embraced the concept of the moon garden.

These specially designed spaces are adorned with a selection of plants that come alive in the moon’s gentle glow, offering a captivating sensory experience after dusk.

Why build a moon garden?

The idea behind moon gardens is to create a place outdoors that naturally shines under the soft light of the moon. Sure, sunlight showcases vibrant colors, but moonlight can reveal delicate hues, silhouettes, and textures that go unnoticed during the day.

Moon gardens capitalize on subtleties, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere for those seeking a different kind of garden experience.

When planning a moon garden, it’s essential to consider plants that thrive in low light conditions and reflect the moon’s glow. White or pale-colored flowers, for instance, take center stage in these nocturnal spaces.

What to plant in your nighttime landscaping

There are plenty of plants to choose from for a night garden. Blossoms such as white roses, moonflowers, evening primroses, and jasmine emit a sweet fragrance to enhance your sensory journey.

The foliage in moon gardens is equally important, as it provides contrasting textures and shapes. Plants with silver or gray leaves, like lamb’s ear or dusty miller, stand out under the moonlight. Other options include plants with variegated foliage, which adds visual interest even when the moon is hidden behind clouds.

To enhance the atmosphere, moon garden enthusiasts often incorporate plants with night-blooming flowers. One such example is the night-blooming cereus, a cactus species that displays stunning white flowers only after the sun sets. Another favorite is the angel’s trumpet, a fragrant flower that releases a sweet scent in the evening hours.

Adding more senses

Besides the visual and olfactory delights, moon gardens also embrace the symphony of sounds that come alive at night. The gentle chirping of crickets, the occasional hoot of an owl, or the rustling of leaves can all contribute to the ambiance. So, including elements like a small water feature or wind chimes can amplify the auditory experience, creating a soothing and meditative environment.

Moon gardens are not limited to plants alone. The hardscape elements play a crucial role in enhancing the overall atmosphere. A white or pale-colored pathway, for instance, provides a radiant contrast against the dark soil, guiding visitors through the garden. Stone or marble sculptures, strategically placed under moonlight, evoke a sense of mystery and invite contemplation. Another popular feature is the inclusion of reflective surfaces, such as mirrors or metallic accents.

These elements capture and amplify the moonlight, adding a touch of shimmer to the garden. Illumination through softly lit lanterns, solar-powered lights, or strategically positioned candles can enhance the dreamlike quality of the moon garden.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Night Blooming Plants for Moon Gardens: White Flowers That Shine in the Moonlight” — The Spruce

WTF Fun Fact 13372 – Plant Sounds

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Nature holds a hidden symphony of plant sounds. While we typically associate sound with animal communication, recent scientific research has revealed that plants also possess the ability to produce acoustic signals.

Plants have found their own unique way of vocalizing their discontent, even without possessing mouths. Recent research has revealed that stressed plants emit audible sounds that correspond to the type of adversity they are experiencing. These sounds, resulting from cavitation, occur when tiny bubbles burst and produce mini-shock waves within the plant’s vascular system. The plants make different complaints that match their specific stresses, such as dehydration or physical damage. While humans cannot hear these high-pitched sounds, they fall within the hearing range of other animals, raising questions about potential plant-to-plant communication. This discovery highlights the surprising sophistication of plants and opens up avenues for further exploration in plant bioacoustics.

The field of bioacoustics

The field of plant bioacoustics investigates the sounds produced by various plant species and their ecological significance. By studying plant sounds, scientists aim to unravel the ecological functions, adaptations, and potential communication mechanisms of these silent but expressive organisms.

Plants produce sounds through a variety of mechanisms. For instance, when certain plants experience mechanical disturbances such as wind or touch, their leaves or stems can generate rustling or creaking sounds from within. The release of gases during certain plant processes, such as photosynthesis, can produce ultrasonic vibrations.

Plant sounds as communication

Plants may use sound as a means of communication and signaling. Research has shown that some plant species emit ultrasonic clicks or vibrations in response to environmental cues. One example is the presence of insect pollinators or approaching herbivores. These acoustic signals may attract or repel certain organisms, aiding in pollination, seed dispersal, or defense strategies. During water stress or drought, some plants emit high-frequency sounds that can potentially attract predators of herbivorous insects, helping to protect the plant from excessive damage.

Studying plant acoustics

The study of plant sounds also has practical applications. Monitoring and analyzing acoustic emissions from plants can provide valuable insights into their health, growth, and stress levels. By detecting subtle changes in plant sounds, scientists and farmers can identify potential issues, assess the impact of environmental factors, and optimize cultivation practices.

The notion that plants produce sounds challenges our traditional understanding of the acoustic landscape. From the rustling of leaves to the ultrasonic vibrations emitted during crucial plant processes, the sounds of plants carry hidden messages and ecological significance

—WTF fun facts

Source: “This Is What It Sounds Like When Plants Cry” — New York Times

WTF Fun Fact 13371 – The Victorian Language of Flowers

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During the Victorian era, a unique and fascinating form of communication blossomed, quite literally, through the language of flowers. Floriography is the art of expressing sentiments through specific flowers and arrangements. From declarations of love to secret messages, the Victorian language of flowers was a subtle way for people to convey their emotions.

The covert language of flowers

The roots of the Victorian language of flowers gained popularity during the reign of Queen Victoria in the 19th century. In a time when societal norms discouraged open displays of affection between lovers, the flowers provided a covert means of expressing one’s feelings.

Each flower held its own distinct symbolism, allowing individuals to convey specific emotions or messages. For example, a red rose represented passionate love. A yellow rose signified friendship or jealousy. The choice of flower, the color, and even the arrangement held significance. And an entire bouquet could convey a more complex message.

The art of Victorian floriography

To navigate the intricacies of floriography, enthusiasts published floral dictionaries and guides. These provided detailed explanations of the meanings associated with different flowers, empowering individuals to craft personalized and meaningful bouquets.

The Victorian language of flowers encompassed a wide range of sentiments and emotions. Examples include:

Pink roses: Gentleness and admiration.
Lily of the Valley: Sweetness and humility.
Forget-Me-Nots: Remembrance and true love.
Violets: Modesty and faithfulness.
Sunflowers: Adoration and loyalty.
Orchids: Exotic beauty and love.

The complex messages of floral arrangements

Not only did individual flowers carry meaning, but the arrangement of flowers also played a crucial role in conveying specific messages.

The language of flowers allowed for romantic gestures without overt declarations. Secret admirers could send carefully chosen flowers to convey their affections, and lovers could exchange bouquets as a silent expression of their emotions.

As societal norms evolved and communication became more direct, the practice of floriography gradually waned. The language of flowers lost its significance as more explicit modes of expression emerged.

Next time you encounter a bouquet or spot a specific bloom, take a moment to reflect on the hidden language it may be whispering!

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Victorian Language of Flowers – Floriography” — Museum Selection

WTF Fun Fact 13370 – The Origin of Cheetos

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When you think of Cheetos, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the cheesy, crunchy snack that leaves your fingers orange. However, what many people don’t realize is that the origin of Cheetos is tied to the military.

The origin of Cheetos

Cheetos were invented by an unexpected source—military food scientists at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). In the early 1940s, during World War II, scientists were tasked with finding a way to utilize surplus cornmeal. These products also needed to be shelf-stable, lightweight, and provide nutrition to soldiers on the frontlines.

The driving force behind the creation of Cheetos was food scientist Colonel Bob, a.k.a. Colonel Edward Blewett. His objective was to find a cheese that could be transformed into a powder, providing a burst of flavor when added to various food products.

In the early 1940s, Colonel Bob and his team succeeded in developing a breakthrough process that transformed cheese into a powdered form. This cheese powder became the key ingredient for what would eventually become Cheetos. However, it wasn’t until the 1950s that the cheese powder was combined with cornmeal and shaped into the signature Cheetos form we know today.

From rations to snacks

In 1961, Fritos, the well-known corn chip brand, acquired the rights to Cheetos. Frito-Lay, the company behind Fritos, recognized the immense potential of Cheetos as a snack food. They further refined the recipe, improved the manufacturing process, and launched Cheetos into the snack food spotlight.

Cheetos quickly became a sensation. Cheetos’ popularity soared with the introduction of different flavors. For example, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos became a cultural phenomenon in their own right.

The military’s pursuit of portable, and long-lasting food options for soldiers led to the creation of Cheetos. So next time you enjoy a bag of Cheetos, take a moment to appreciate the military origins behind the snack.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “How the US Military Helped Invent Cheetos” — Wired