fun fact

WTF Fun Fact 13467 – The Baghdad Battery

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When we think about the birth of electricity, names like Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Edison, and Nikola Tesla might come to mind. But if we venture even further back in time, we stumble upon a curious artifact known as the Baghdad Battery.

This ancient piece, found in the vicinity of modern-day Iraq and believed to date back to the Parthian or Sassanid era (between 225 BC and AD 650), challenges our understanding of technological development. It’s a story that connects the ancient world with our modern one in a fascinating tale of science and history.

Discovery of the Baghdad Battery

The story of the Baghdad Battery begins in 1936. German archaeologist Wilhelm König discovered a set of 12 peculiar artifacts in the basement of the National Museum of Iraq. The artifacts, assumed to be about 2,000 years old, consisted of terracotta pots with a copper cylinder and a single iron rod inside.

Each “battery” was about 14 cm high, with a one-inch-wide mouth. The copper cylinder, carefully soldered with a 60-40 lead-tin alloy, encapsulated the iron rod. Evidence of an acidic residue such as vinegar or wine in some of the pots led König to propose that these were ancient electric cells.

The theory suggests that when the jars were filled with an electrolytic solution (like vinegar or lemon juice), they produced a potential difference between the copper and the iron — about 1.1 volts. This setup is remarkably similar to a basic school experiment to create a simple voltaic cell.

The primary controversy lies in the purpose of these devices. Some researchers propose that these ancient cells powered electroplating objects with gold. Others suggest a more spiritual role, possibly linked to pain relief. The sensation of a mild electric shock could have been interpreted as a divine intervention or magical experience.

Debates and Controversies

The theory of the Baghdad Battery as a tool for electroplating or electrotherapy is not without its critics. Skeptics argue that there’s no recorded evidence that ancient people had knowledge of electricity. Furthermore, there is no evidence of wires, conductors, or additional devices that could demonstrate a practical application for this alleged ancient technology.

Another point of contention lies in the design. If the intent was to generate an electric current, the iron rod would have quickly corroded due to the acidic solution. However, some of the recovered artifacts still have uncorroded iron rods, suggesting they might never have been used as proposed.

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Source: “Was the Baghdad Battery really a battery?” — BBC Science Focus

WTF Fun Fact 13466 – Cologne That Smells Like WD40

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If you love the smell of a bustling workshop, you might appreciate a unique new cologne that smells like WD40 If so, this might be your dream come true. It’s called “Eau de Industrie.”

“Eau de Industrie” – The cologne that smells like WD40

The idea of a WD-40 scented cologne is nothing short of audacious, to say the least. However, it emerged from the creative minds at MSCHF, a company known for its innovative concepts. The team decided to push the envelope with a scent that recreates the distinct smell of this universal DIY staple.

As bizarre as it may sound, “Eau de Industrie” is a testament to the creativity of modern perfume makers. Creating a fragrance that successfully captures the essence of a substance known for its lubricating properties rather than its aromatic appeal is no small feat.

The creators of the cologne had to strike the perfect balance between replicating the recognizable scent of the spray and ensuring it was wearable. It’s a distinctively metallic, slightly smoky, and ultimately unmistakable aroma.

Would you wear it?

There’s a growing market for unconventional colognes and perfumes. Scent profiles now extend far beyond the traditional floral, musk, and citrus bases. Fragrances inspired by the smell of things like fresh rain, old books, or even a specific city are gaining popularity. WD-40 cologne is part of this wave, appealing to those with a penchant for the smell of a busy workshop.

Now, if you want to get your hands on “Eau de Industrie” you’re in for a challenge. The cologne immediately sold out on the company’s website. While it sold for $44, resellers have marked up the price significantly. Of course, you should never substitute the cologne with the real thing! Just keep your fingers crossed for a restock.

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Source: “MSCHF Releases “Smells Like WD-40″ Cologne” — Hypebeast

WTF Fun Fact 13464 – Stolen Cadbury Creme Eggs

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You may think the world of crime revolves around daring bank robberies, high-tech cyberattacks, or audacious art thefts. However, sometimes it boils down to an ‘eggstraordinary’ heist involving 200,000 stolen Cadbury Creme Eggs.

This seemingly absurd yet true tale resulted in an 18-month prison sentence for a 32-year-old man named Joby Pool.

The Tale of the Stolen Cadbury Creme Eggs

Referred to as the “Easter Bunny” by the police, Pool had pulled off a robbery that any candy-loving kid might dream of, but with serious real-world consequences. On the 11th of February, he broke into an industrial unit in Telford, UK, belonging to SW Group Logistics. With the help of a stolen lorry cab and a metal grinder, he made away with a haul worth more than £31,000 (over $42,000) – all in Cadbury Creme Eggs.

In late July of 2023, Shrewsbury Crown Court Judge Anthony Lowe passed the sentence of 18 months. Pool is to serve half of this time in prison and the other half on parole. He has already spent six months in custody, which will count towards his jail time.

A Well-Planned Heist

Prosecutor Owen Beale stressed during a previous court hearing that this was not a spur-of-the-moment act. Pool took a tractor unit with him. Beale said, “This is clearly an organized criminal matter. You don’t just happen to learn about a trailer with that kind of value being available.”

Defense lawyer Debra White pointed out that Pool had shown genuine remorse for his actions. He regrets the impact it had on his family and the business involved. However, Judge Lowe was unconvinced that Pool was the sole perpetrator in the planning of the theft. She suggested that inside information or reconnaissance was involved in identifying the valuable trailer.

West Mercia police took to Twitter to describe the incident, coining it an “eggs-travagant theft” of a “chocolate collection box”. They added, “West Mercia police has helped save Easter for Creme Egg fans after almost 200,000 of the chocolate treats were stolen.”

A Lesson Learned

Pool, hailing from Tingley, near Leeds, had previously admitted to theft, causing criminal damage to a lock at the trailer park, and driving without insurance. His conviction serves as a stern reminder of the serious consequences of such actions, however comedic they might seem on the surface.

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Source: “Man who stole 200,000 Cadbury Creme Eggs jailed for 18 months” — The Guardian

WTF Fun Fact 13463 – Dog Poop DNA Test

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If you live near a dog owner who doesn’t clean up after their pup, you can now get a dog poop DNA test to track them down.

A company named PooPrints is one of a growing number of companies that will let you send in dog poop for detective work.

Poo Prints Dog Poop DNA Test

The concept is simple, yet genius. When dogs move into a participating apartment complex or housing community, they undergo a quick DNA cheek swab. The information is then stored in PooPrints’ vast database. If someone stumbles across an abandoned pile of dog poop, a small sample can be sent to PooPrints for DNA analysis.

With the precise accuracy of these tests, annoyed residents can ask their apartment complex to quickly ID and appropriately dealt with a rude dog owner, usually through a fine.

The man behind the mission, Tom Boyd, found inspiration in his own annoyance with irresponsible pet owners. He transformed his personal pet peeve into a thriving business with PooPrints now serving clients across the US, Canada, and the UK.

Unleashing Controversy

But this is more than just a business. PooPrints is making a significant environmental impact. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, pet waste is as toxic to the environment as chemical spills. It’s not just an eyesore; it’s a health hazard. By helping to enforce clean-up rules, PooPrints aids in reducing these environmental hazards.

However, as with any disruptive idea, PooPrints has also seen its share of controversy. For example, people have raised privacy concerns about collecting and storing pet DNA. Critics also point out that fines can disproportionately impact lower-income pet owners.

Despite the debate, PooPrints continues to grow. While the concept might seem absurd at first, it’s an innovative solution to an everyday problem. By holding pet owners accountable, PooPrints is turning unwelcome dog poop into a tool for cleaner, more harmonious communities.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Need to track down a dog poo-petrator? There’s a DNA test for that” — The Guardian

WTF Fun Fact 13461 – CPR Playlist

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Hopefully you’ll never have to access the CPR playlist on Spotify, but it’s handy to know it’s there when you need it!

The life-saving rhythm of music

Picture this: you’re in an emergency where someone’s life hangs in the balance. The heart has stopped. The breathing’s ceased. Panic sets in. What do you do? For some, the answer may just lie in the beat of their favorite song.

In an innovative move, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital has turned to music as an unexpected life-saving tool. They’ve curated a Spotify playlist with songs that have the perfect tempo for CPR compressions. The goal? To empower everyone, not just medical professionals, to perform effective CPR.

If you’ve taken a CPR course, you know that timing is everything. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends a rate of 100 to 120 chest compressions per minute during CPR. Keeping this rhythm, though, can be challenging in the heat of the moment. Enter the NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital’s “Songs to do CPR to” playlist on Spotify.

A playlist with a purpose

This playlist isn’t about entertainment. It’s a practical, life-saving tool. It features 47 popular songs, each one maintaining a tempo of 100 to 120 beats per minute (BPM). This rhythm perfectly mirrors the ideal rate of chest compressions during CPR.

The list brings together classics like “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees and modern hits such as “Sorry” by Justin Bieber. The idea? By associating the rhythm of these familiar tunes with the pace of chest compressions, anyone can deliver effective CPR.

Hands-only CPR is simple. It involves hard and fast chest compressions in the center of the patient’s chest. This helps maintain blood flow, providing much-needed oxygen to the brain and other organs during cardiac arrest. Matching these compressions to the beat of a familiar song can help maintain the rhythm. But remember, always dial 911 first!

Changing the game with a CPR playlist

The NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital’s playlist isn’t just a clever idea. It’s a life-saver, literally. By combining music with medical knowledge, they’ve given us a unique and memorable tool to use during cardiac emergencies. The best part? It’s not just for the trained professionals. Anyone can use this playlist to guide their CPR compressions, potentially saving a life in the process.

The use of a Spotify playlist for CPR training is a game-changer. By making CPR more accessible and memorable, it shows us how innovation can transform the way we learn life-saving skills. And who knows? The next time a favorite tune plays, you might be tapping your feet to the beat of a life-saving rhythm.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “‘Songs to do CPR to’ playlist could be a lifesaving soundtrack” — Washington Post

WTF Fun Fact 13460 – Sharks in a Lake

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There’s nothing quite like the ocean. But you can get some beach time in at the lake as well. It used to be a shark-free way to enjoy the water. But not anymore since there have been more than a few reports of sharks in a lake!

If you’ve swum in certain lakes around the globe, you might have shared a swim with these fascinating creatures.

Bull sharks are freshwater fans

While Great Whites may not make an appearance in our freshwater lakes, bull sharks, notorious for their ability to survive in both salt and fresh water, do make an appearance. This survival trick is all thanks to their advanced ability to osmoregulate their livers. This allows them to adapt to varying salinity levels, unlike their fellow hammerhead or tiger sharks.

One of the largest freshwater lakes in the Americas, Lake Nicaragua, sees these adaptable creatures as regular inhabitants. The bull sharks make their way through the San Juan River. They successfully navigate through eight rapids, much like salmon, to reach the lake and may reside in the lake for several years.

They exhibit some impressive rapids-navigation abilities not seen in other bull shark populations.

Unexpected sightings of sharks in a lake

Even a seemingly innocent round of golf can turn into a shark encounter at Queensland’s Carbrook Golf Club in Australia. In 1996, a massive flood seems to have left around six bull sharks trapped in the golf course’s freshwater lake. Since then, the shark population has been a consistent feature of the club.

The bull shark presence is not limited to Australia or the Americas. In Lake Pontchartrain, Louisiana, bull sharks have been spotted and even caught by anglers. A boy was reportedly attacked by a bull shark in 2014 in this lake. The sharks are known to venture more into the lake during the summer. But they retreat back to the Gulf of Mexico towards the year-end.

These fascinating creatures have also been observed in Lake Janoer in New Guinea. Oh, and you might see one in Lake Izabal in Guatemala, Lake Sentani in Indonesia, and Lake Bayano in Panama. (But note that despite a few shark sighting being reported in the Great Lakes, such as Lake Michigan, those have never been scientifically confirmed.)

In a more heartwarming encounter, Lake Maracaibo in Venezuela is home to a bull shark nursery. However, this particular lake may not be the best holiday destination. It holds the world record for the highest number of lightning strikes.

Freshwater lakes aren’t always shark-free

A river swim doesn’t eliminate the risk of encountering a shark. Three species of river sharks exist: the Ganges shark, the northern river shark, and the speartooth shark. These aquatic creatures can be found in the freshwater rivers in India and the brackish estuaries in northern Australia and New Guinea.

But don’t freak out (despite Summer 2023 being the year the ocean seems to be fighting back). It’s essential to remember that shark attacks, whether in the sea or a lake, are exceedingly rare. In fact, have a better chance of being bitten by a New Yorker than a shark!

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Shark-Infested Lakes Exist And You Might Have Already Swum In One” — IFL Science

WTF Fun Fact 13458 – Taxidermied Bird Drones

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Researchers often look to nature for inspiration when designing machines and devices – now scientists from the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology are taking this concept a step further, building taxidermied bird drones.

Why use taxidermy bird drones?

The idea might seem disturbing or bizarre at first. A decade ago, a Dutch artist, Bart Jansen, had stirred conversation by turning a deceased, taxidermied cat into a furry quadcopter. However, the researchers from New Mexico Tech have a practical reason for their unique approach to creating ornithopters—drones that fly by flapping their wings like a bird.

Their aim is to harness the flight capabilities of birds whose lightweight bodies and flexible feathers give them remarkable maneuverability that outmatches the most sophisticated aircraft we’ve built.

According to a study presented at the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics SciTech 2023 Forum, using actual bird parts can offer significant advantages over artificial materials engineered to mimic bird behavior.

The researchers believe that their bird-built drones can effectively camouflage in the air, being more likely to be ignored due to their realistic appearance. These drones may not excel in performing complex aerial maneuvers like a living bird, but they could become an essential tool in espionage or wildlife study.

From stealth to espionage

One unique advantage of using bird feathers in these taxidermied bird drones is the stealth capabilities they offer. Unlike the noticeable hum of an electric motor propelling a typical drone, a bird drone with flapping feathered wings could potentially sneak up on targets quietly without alarming them. This would be particularly useful in studying and observing wildlife in their natural habitats, without disturbing their normal behaviors. Military applications could also benefit from the stealth properties of these feathered drones, providing an innovative approach to surveillance and reconnaissance.

The current bird-built drones, however, have limitations. Unlike real birds that use their muscles to flex and shape their wings for executing intricate aerial maneuvers, these drones can only flap their stiff wings up and down to stay airborne. The challenge for the researchers lies in advancing the technology to imbue their bird drones with greater agility in flight.

The research from New Mexico Tech presents an intriguing intersection of biology and technology, pushing the boundaries of how we perceive and utilize drones. As they continue to refine their design, these bird-built drones could revolutionize areas from espionage to wildlife observation. Yet, ethical considerations, including the use of taxidermied birds, will undoubtedly be part of the ongoing discourse as this technology evolves.

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Source: “Researchers Are Turning Taxidermied Birds Into Drones” — Gizmodo

WTF Fun Fact 13455 – Bird Nest Spikes

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Bird nest spikes sound pretty uncomfortable. But the birds have defeated us since they’re now using anti-bird spikes designed to keep them away as materials to build their nests! Nature always finds a way.

How are birds defeating the spikes?

It’s magpies specifically that are making headlines. They’re the birds that have been found using the anti-bird spikes designed to deter them as construction material for their nests. This fascinating behavior underscores these birds’ remarkable intelligence and adaptability.

Anti-bird spikes are rows of pointed metal or plastic prongs designed to deter birds from perching on buildings, bridges, or statues. People use them when they don’t want birds building nests or leaving droppings in a specific area. And since birds can spread disease, some people see them as dirty.

However, far from being deterred, magpies have decided to turn the tables on humans by using these spikes to their advantage.

Bird nest spikes for a spiteful home

We kid. The birds aren’t spiteful. They’re just trying to survive.

Birdwatchers have observed magpies collecting these anti-bird spikes and weaving them among twigs and branches to create sturdy and secure homes. The supposed deterrents have become a beneficial resource for these intelligent creatures.

Scientists believe that these birds’ unexpected behavior is an example of neophilia, an attraction to new things. Unlike neophobia, a fear of new things common in many animals, neophilia is characteristic of certain bird species, particularly those known for their intelligence like magpies and crows. The anti-bird spikes are new elements in their environment, so the birds investigate them and then find a way to use them to their advantage.

Implications for bird deterrence

The use of anti-bird spikes by magpies challenges the effectiveness of this deterrence method. If the birds can repurpose these structures for their use, their presence may not achieve the intended effect of keeping the birds away. This revelation could prompt a re-evaluation of current bird deterrent strategies.

The behavior of these magpies and crows using anti-bird spikes underscores the impressive cognitive abilities of these birds. It’s yet another example of their capability to adapt to and exploit the human-altered environment, offering further proof that these birds possess a high level of intelligence and problem-solving skills.

The birds’ actions also serve as a reminder of the continuous interplay between wildlife and human spaces. As humans encroach more on natural habitats, animals must adjust and adapt to survive. These magpies and crows turning a human deterrent into a beneficial resource is a clear instance of this adaptive behavior.

Conclusion

In their creative use of anti-bird spikes, magpies and crows have provided a fascinating case study of avian ingenuity. They’ve turned a human-made deterrent into an advantageous resource, demonstrating their intelligence and adaptability. These observations could have significant implications for how we design bird deterrents in the future. It also invites us to appreciate and respect the remarkable cognitive capabilities of these feathered urban dwellers.

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Source: “Magpies Are Making Nests Out Of Humans’ “Anti-Bird” Spikes” — IFL Science

WTF Fun Fact 13453 – Shark GPS Tracker Draws Shark

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A great white shark with a GPS tracker drew a shark in the waters off the eastern coast of North America. Was he “punking” researchers? Telling us he knows what we’re up to? Do sharks mysteriously swim in shark-shaped patterns? Or are we just seeing what we want to see?

Don’t answer that – it’s not as funny if you do.

The unconventional artist

Art and creativity are typically deemed human endeavors. But perhaps they also belong to the great white shark who unwittingly sketched a self-portrait, using tracking data as its brush.

Our artist is a mature male great white shark, named Breton by the OCEARCH team. He’s a frequent wanderer off the Atlantic Ocean coast of Long Island, New York. As part of the shark tracking initiative, he carries a tracker affixed to his dorsal fin. This tracker collects and relays data whenever the shark surfaces, providing an almost real-time map of the shark’s movement.

Did the shark GPS tracker draw a shark?

A May 2022 observation of Breton’s tracking data offered an unexpected delight to the researchers. It seemed as though Breton had swum in a pattern that mirrored the outline of a great white shark when seen from above.

OCEARCH shared the data on its social media, and the internet quickly took notice.

The tracking path captured not only the body’s curve but also the classic angular shape of the tail and the pectoral fins. It sure looks like a shark!

Coincidence or Design?

As fascinating as Breton’s journey may seem, it is essential to underline that the ‘self-portrait’ was purely coincidental. Sharks navigate based on instincts and sensory information, not a predetermined design. Sorry if you needed to be told that – but people have been studying sharks for a long time. That doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the coincidence!

While the artistic byproduct is captivating, the primary purpose of tracking sharks like Breton is conservation. By learning about migration patterns, feeding areas, and breeding grounds, scientists can devise effective strategies to safeguard these creatures. The knowledge gained from such tracking can inform the establishment of marine protected areas and fishing regulations.

The good news is that Breton’s self-portrait can serve as a symbol for raising awareness about the threats facing great white sharks.

Issues like overfishing, habitat degradation, and climate change pose significant threats to these magnificent creatures. Breton’s story is an opportunity to engage the public and rally support for shark conservation.

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Source: “Great White Shark Accidentally Draws Self-Portrait With Tracking Path” — The Inertia