wtf fact

WTF Fun Fact 13688 – Chess’ Infinite Possibilities

Diving into the world of chess, we hit upon a fact that’s as mind-boggling as it is true: there are infinite possibilities in chess games. In fact, more than there are atoms in the observable universe.

Let’s break this down into manageable pieces.

Chess: A Game of Infinite Possibilities

Chess, with its 64 squares and 32 pieces, might seem finite at first glance. However, the potential moves and strategies unfold into a vast, almost limitless landscape. The number of possible game variations exceeds the number of atoms in the observable universe, which is about 10^80. In contrast, the number of possible chess games is estimated to be around 10^120. This staggering difference showcases chess’s complexity and depth.

Calculating the Infinite

The calculation of chess’s possible iterations involves a dizzying array of potential moves each piece can make, compounded with each turn. From the initial move of a pawn or knight to the intricate dances of queens and rooks in the endgame, every decision branches into a new set of possibilities, expanding the game’s potential universe exponentially.

The Impact on Strategy

What does this mean for players? It ensures that no two chess games are ever the same. Players must constantly adapt, think ahead, and strategize in novel ways. This infinite complexity makes chess a perennial challenge, one that can never be fully mastered, always offering new puzzles to solve and strategies to explore.

Beyond Human Comprehension

The vast number of iterations in chess goes beyond what the human mind can fully comprehend or explore. It’s a humbling reminder of the game’s depth and the limits of human cognition. Even with the advent of powerful chess computers and algorithms, we’re still uncovering the mysteries and beauties of this ancient game.

Infinite Possibilities on a Chessboard

This fact about chess serves as a metaphor for the infinite possibilities within seemingly finite boundaries. It reminds us that within the constraints of a chessboard lies a universe of potential, echoing the endless capacity for innovation and creativity in the human spirit.

In essence, the idea that chess offers more game possibilities than there are atoms in the universe is a testament to the game’s enduring intrigue and complexity. It’s a fascinating aspect that draws players in, offering a lifetime of discovery and challenge on just 64 squares.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Are there really more possible Chess games than atoms in the Universe?” — Medium

WTF Fun Fact 13687 – The Bats of the Biblioteca Joanina

In the walls of the University of Coimbra in Portugal lies the Biblioteca Joanina. This 18th-century baroque library is not only renowned for its opulent interior and precious collections but also for its unique, nocturnal caretakers – bats.

These bats actually play a crucial role in the preservation of this historic library’s books.

Guardians of the Biblioteca Joanina

Every night, after the sun sets and the doors close, the Biblioteca Joanina becomes the domain of small, insect-eating bats. Hidden from the library’s visitors, these bats embark on their nightly feasts, hunting the insects that could otherwise damage the library’s ancient manuscripts.

This natural pest control method has been in place for centuries, a secret pact between the bats and the library, protecting the invaluable collection without the use of chemicals.

A Symbiotic Relationship

The bats in the Biblioteca Joanina are not just tolerated; the caretakers welcome and accommodate them. Before closing time, staff lay out leather covers to protect the historic tables from bat droppings.

Each morning, these are cleaned up, ensuring that the library remains pristine for its human visitors. This routine highlights a remarkable symbiotic relationship. The bats receive shelter and hunting ground, while the library gets a highly effective, eco-friendly pest management service.

The main adversaries of the Biblioteca Joanina’s collection are book-eating insects like silverfish and booklice. These creatures thrive in the organic materials of the books. The bats, by keeping the insect population in check, help preserve these texts in a way that few modern methods can.

However, this unique method of preservation does not come without its challenges. The acidity in bat guano, for instance, can be harmful if not regularly cleaned. It requires diligent maintenance by the library staff.

The Secret of the Biblioteca Joanina’s Bats

The bats of the Biblioteca Joanina are a species adept at navigating the tight spaces and dark nooks of the library, making them perfect for this environment. Their ability to use echolocation allows them to hunt with precision in complete darkness, ensuring that their nightly patrols are successful. This adaptation is key to their role as protectors of the library’s collection, demonstrating nature’s ingenuity.

While visitors seldom see the bats themselves, their presence adds a layer of mystique to the Biblioteca Joanina. Tour guides often share tales of these nocturnal guardians, enchanting visitors with stories of how nature and culture can coexist.

This has turned the library into a place of legend. Today, it attracts tourists not only for its architectural beauty and historical significance but also for its unique, bat-inhabited halls.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “These Portuguese Libraries Are Infested With Bats—and They Like It That Way” — Smithsonian Magazine

WTF Fun Fact 13686 – The Date of Sliced Bread

The phrase “the best thing since sliced bread” is thrown around a lot, but have you ever stopped to ponder its origin? This journey takes us back to the 1920s, to a small town in Missouri, where the Chillicothe Baking Company introduced the world to the first machine-cut bread.

This innovation wasn’t just a minor convenience; it revolutionized the bread industry and how we eat breakfast. Let’s knead through the details.

The Dawn of Sliced Bread

Before the 1920s, bread was sold in whole loaves, leaving the slicing to be done at home. This all changed in 1928 when Otto Frederick Rohwedder, an inventor, perfected his bread-slicing machine. The Chillicothe Baking Company in Missouri became the first to adopt this machine, selling pre-sliced bread under the name “Kleen Maid Sliced Bread.” This wasn’t just a new way to sell bread; it was a new way to experience it.

The introduction of this treat was met with skepticism by some who thought it would dry out faster or that the slices would crumble too easily. However, these doubts were quickly dispelled as consumers embraced the convenience and uniformity of pre-sliced bread. It became a staple in households, transforming breakfast routines and making the bread more versatile for sandwiches and toast.

The Technological Marvel

Rohwedder’s machine was a marvel of its time. It not only sliced the bread but also wrapped it, keeping it fresher longer than at home. This machine was a significant leap forward in food manufacturing, showcasing the potential for technology to improve everyday life. Its success paved the way for further innovations in food processing and packaging.

Sliced bread represented more than just a technological advancement; it marked a cultural shift towards greater convenience and efficiency in the American lifestyle. It reflected the era’s broader trends of mechanization and innovation, from assembly lines in factories to household appliances.

The food became a symbol of modernity and progress, changing not just how people ate but how they thought about food and technology.

Becoming the Best Things Since Sliced Bread

The popularity and impact of sliced bread gave rise to the phrase “the best thing since sliced bread.” This idiom underscores the innovation’s significance and has become a benchmark for measuring the value of new inventions. It’s a testament to how deeply the concept is embedded in our cultural lexicon. It continues to represent the pinnacle of convenience and innovation.

The Legacy Continues

Today, the idea of buying unsliced bread is foreign to many. This highlights the lasting impact of the Chillicothe Baking Company’s decision to embrace Rohwedder’s invention. These cut carbs have become a given in grocery stores worldwide. And it’s a reminder of how a simple idea can have a profound and lasting impact on daily life.

— WTF fun facts

Source: ABOUT CHILLICOTHE

WTF Fun Fact 13684 – Mark Zuckerberg Tried to Sell Facebook

Mark Zuckerberg, the brain behind Facebook, once tried to sell the platform. Yes, the social media giant that’s now a staple in over 2 billion people’s daily lives was almost handed over to another company before it could spread its wings. Let’s unpack this fascinating slice of history.

The Offer on the Table to Sell Facebook

Back in the early days of Facebook, or “TheFacebook” as it was originally called, Zuckerberg and his co-founders created a buzz on college campuses. It was this buzz that caught the attention of several investors and companies. Among them was Friendster, a once-popular social networking site, which actually made an offer to buy Facebook. The figure tossed around? A cool $10 million.

Reports from ZDNet reveal that in July 2004, Zuckerberg was indeed open to selling Facebook.

Zuckerberg’s Vision

What’s even more interesting is Zuckerberg’s decision to decline all offers. At the time, Facebook was just a fledgling site, far from the global platform it is today. Yet, Zuckerberg saw the potential for something much larger than a college network. He believed in the idea of connecting people in ways that hadn’t been done before.

Selling to Friendster, or any other suitor for that matter, didn’t align with his vision for what Facebook could become.

The Road Not Taken to Sell Facebook

Zuckerberg’s choice to keep Facebook independent was a pivotal moment in the company’s history. It set the stage for Facebook to grow, innovate, and eventually become the social media behemoth we know today. This decision wasn’t just about holding onto a company; it was about believing in the potential of an idea and the impact it could have on the world.

Looking back, it’s clear Zuckerberg’s gamble paid off. Facebook went on to redefine social interaction, media consumption, and digital marketing. It’s interesting to ponder what Facebook might have become had it merged with Friendster. Would it have faded into obscurity, or could it have still risen to the top under different stewardship?

Reflections on a Tech Titan’s Journey

Zuckerberg’s early move to keep Facebook sets a precedent in the tech world about the value of vision over immediate gain. It’s a reminder that in the fast-paced world of startups, sometimes the biggest risk is not taking one at all. Zuckerberg’s faith in his project’s potential is a testament to the power of innovation and persistence.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Mark Zuckerberg was planning to sell Facebook in July 2004” — ZDNet

WTF Fun Fact 13683 – 1% of Earth’s Water

only 1% of Earth’s water is drinkable. Yes, in a world covered by 71% water, the amount we can actually use to quench our thirst, cook, or bathe barely scratches the surface. Here’s why that’s the case and why it matters.

Earth’s Water: A Vast Ocean of Undrinkable Drops

Most of Earth’s water, about 97.5%, is saltwater, found in oceans and seas. It’s not fit for drinking, farming, or most industrial uses without costly desalination processes. The remaining 2.5% is freshwater, but here’s the catch: much of it is locked away in glaciers, ice caps, and deep underground aquifers. This leaves a tiny sliver, roughly 1%, that’s readily accessible for human use and found in rivers, lakes, and shallow underground sources.

The Precious 1% of Earth’s Water

This 1% of drinkable water supports all of humanity’s needs – from drinking to agriculture to industry. It’s a finite resource that’s under increasing pressure from population growth, pollution, and climate change. The balance between water availability and demand is delicate, and in many parts of the world, this balance is already tipping dangerously.

The Ripple Effect of Scarcity

Water scarcity affects more than just the ability to turn on a tap and get clean water. It has profound implications for food security, as agriculture consumes a significant portion of the world’s freshwater supply. In addition, it impacts health, as poor water quality and access contribute to diseases. It also influences economic development, energy production, and the health of ecosystems that depend on freshwater habitats.

Navigating the Drought

The challenge of managing this precious 1% demands innovative solutions and sustainable practices. Water conservation, efficient usage, pollution control, and investment in infrastructure to treat and recycle wastewater are critical. On a larger scale, addressing climate change and protecting water sources are essential steps to ensure that this 1% can meet the needs of a growing global population.

Understanding that only 1% of Earth’s water is drinkable puts into perspective the need for responsible water use and management. It highlights the importance of every drop and the role everyone has in protecting this vital resource. As we move forward, the decisions we make about water will shape the future of our planet and the survival of the generations to come.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Earth’s Fresh Water” — National Geographic

WTF Fun Fact 13682 – Lighters Were Invented Before Matches

Lighters were invented before matches. It sounds like a historical hiccup, doesn’t it? After all, you’d think the simpler technology would precede the more complex one.

Yet, the path of innovation and invention doesn’t always follow a straight line. So, let’s flick through the pages of history and see how this came to be.

The Early Flame: How Were Lighters Invented Before Matches?

The first version of a lighter, known as the “Döbereiner’s lamp,” made its debut in the early 19th century, around 1823. This gadget relied on a chemical reaction to produce a flame. It used hydrogen gas, which was produced on the spot by a reaction between zinc and sulfuric acid, to create a spark when it came into contact with a platinum catalyst. This contraption was both fascinating and slightly terrifying, considering the volatile substances involved. Despite its innovation, the Döbereiner’s lamp was far from the pocket lighters we’re familiar with today. It was bulky, somewhat dangerous, and definitely not something you’d want to carry around.

Striking Back: The Advent of Matches

Now, you might wonder, “If they had lighters, why invent matches?” The answer is convenience and safety, or at least an attempt at the latter. Matches made their first successful commercial appearance in 1826, thanks to John Walker, an English chemist. Walker’s friction matches, known as “Lucifers,” were a game-changer. They were portable, relatively easy to use, and didn’t require carrying around a mini chemical lab in your pocket. However, these early matches were far from perfect. They were notorious for their unpleasant odor and the potential to ignite unexpectedly, which posed quite the safety hazard.

Following Walker’s invention, matches underwent a series of transformations to become safer and more reliable. The “safety match” as we know it today was developed by the Swedish chemist Gustaf Erik Pasc. It was later improved by John Edvard Lundström. This invention in the mid-19th century utilized the red phosphorus that we now commonly find on the striking surfaces of matchboxes, significantly reducing the risk of accidental ignition and eliminating the noxious fumes produced by their predecessors.

Why Lighters Took the Back Seat to Matches

Given the initial complexity and danger of early lighters, it’s no wonder that matches caught on fire, metaphorically speaking. They were more accessible to the general public. In addition, they are easier to manufacture, and safer to use once the safety match was developed. Lighters required a level of mechanical and chemical know-how that wasn’t widely accessible until later technological advancements.

As technology progressed, so did the design and safety of lighters. The development of ferrocerium (“flint”) by Carl Auer von Welsbach in the early 20th century. Used in many modern lighters for the spark mechanism, it made lighters more reliable and easier to use. The invention of the butane lighter, with its refillable and controllable flame, eventually brought lighters back into the limelight, offering convenience that matches couldn’t match.

Reflecting on the Flames of Innovation

The tale of lighters and matches is a fascinating narrative about human ingenuity, the evolution of technology, and the nonlinear path of invention. It’s a reminder that sometimes, necessity drives us to develop complex solutions before we find the simpler ones. Or perhaps, it speaks to the nature of innovation itself, where convenience and safety are constantly being reevaluated and redesigned to better serve our needs.

In the end, whether you’re striking a match or flicking a lighter, the ability to control fire remains one of humanity’s defining achievements. The story of how we got here, with lighters appearing on the scene before matches, is just one of many examples of how invention and innovation can take unexpected turns, illuminating the paths of progress in surprising ways.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “The match and lighter war” — The Matches Museum

WTF Fun Fact 13678 – Hippos Make Their Own Sunscreen

Hippos make their own sunscreen. And it’s all natural!

Sunny Hippos

Hippos spend a significant amount of time submerged in water to keep cool under the hot African sun. However, they can’t stay underwater forever. When they emerge, they’re exposed to the same UV radiation that has us humans slathering on sunscreen. But nature has equipped hippos with a remarkable solution.

Hippos secrete a reddish fluid from their skin, often referred to as “blood sweat.” But don’t be alarmed; it’s neither blood nor sweat. This secretion is unique to hippos and serves multiple purposes, including acting as a potent sunscreen. This natural sunscreen is crucial for their survival, protecting their sensitive skin from sunburn and possibly even skin infections.

The Science of “Blood Sweat”

What makes this “blood sweat” so special? It’s a combination of two distinct pigments: one red (hipposudoric acid) and one orange (norhipposudoric acid). These pigments absorb ultraviolet light, preventing damaging rays from penetrating the hippo’s skin. Moreover, this secretion is both antibacterial and antifungal, providing an all-around protective barrier for the hippo’s skin.

Researchers have studied these pigments, hoping to unlock their secrets for potential applications in human sunscreens. The idea of a sunscreen that not only protects from UV radiation but also offers antibacterial and antifungal benefits is certainly appealing.

How Hippos Make their Own Sunscreen

The hippo’s “blood sweat” isn’t just about sun protection. This secretion also helps to regulate their body temperature. As the liquid evaporates, it cools the skin, much like sweating does for humans. This is vital for an animal that spends time in both the scorching heat and the water.

This multifaceted secretion underscores the complexity of nature’s adaptations. Hippos, with their massive size and seemingly leisurely lifestyle, might not strike us as the pinnacle of evolutionary innovation. Yet, they carry within them a biochemical marvel that scientists are only beginning to understand fully.

In wrapping up this exploration into the hippo’s sunscreen, it’s clear that nature often holds the most sophisticated solutions to life’s challenges. The hippo’s ability to produce its sunscreen is a testament to the ingenuity of evolutionary adaptations, providing protection against the sun, bacterial and fungal infections, and helping regulate body temperature.

This unique adaptation not only highlights the importance of sun protection across the animal kingdom but also opens doors for scientific research. The potential applications of mimicking or harnessing the properties of the hippo’s “blood sweat” could revolutionize how we approach sunscreen and skin protection in the future.

In essence, the hippopotamus, with its hefty frame and aquatic lifestyle, is a walking, basking example of nature’s ability to find creative solutions for survival. So, the next time you reach for your bottle of sunscreen, spare a thought for the hippos, who have been basking under the African sun with their own built-in UV protection for millennia.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “How Do Some Animals Make Their Own Sunscreen?” — National Geographic

WTF Fun Fact 13676 – We Can’t Burp in Space

People can’t burp in space.

Now, you might wonder, why on Earth (or rather, off Earth) can’t astronauts do something as simple as burping? It boils down to gravity, or the lack thereof.

Why We Can’t Burp in Space

Here on Earth, gravity does a lot of work for us without us even noticing. When you eat or drink, gravity helps separate the liquid and gas in your stomach. The solids and liquids stay at the bottom, while the gas, being lighter, floats to the top. When there’s enough gas, your body naturally expels it as a burp. Simple, right?

But, take gravity out of the equation, and things get a bit more complicated. In space, there’s no up or down like here on Earth. This means that in an astronaut’s stomach, gas doesn’t rise above the liquid and solid. Instead, everything floats around in a mixed-up blob.

If an astronaut tries to burp, they’re not just going to expel the gas. No, they might bring up some of the liquid and solid matter too. Not exactly pleasant, and definitely something you’d want to avoid.

NASA Burp Training

NASA, being aware of this, actually trains astronauts on how to eat and drink in a way that minimizes the chances of needing to burp. They choose foods that are less likely to produce gas. Also, space food is designed to reduce crumbs and loose particles, which can be a nuisance in microgravity. Even with these precautions, though, the human body can still produce gas, thanks to the digestion process.

So, what happens to all that gas if it can’t come out as a burp? Well, it has to go somewhere. The body adapts in interesting ways. The gas might get absorbed into the bloodstream and expelled through the lungs. Or it might travel through the digestive tract and leave the body as flatulence. Yes, astronauts can still fart in space, which, without gravity to direct the flow, might be a bit more… interesting.

This isn’t just a quirky fact about space travel; it has real implications for astronaut health and comfort. Gas build-up can cause discomfort, bloating, and even pain. In the confined, zero-gravity environment of a spacecraft, managing these bodily functions becomes crucial for maintaining the well-being and harmony of the crew.

Bodies in Space

It’s funny to think about, but this no-burp scenario highlights a broader point about space travel. Living in space requires us to relearn and adapt basic bodily functions. Everything from sleeping to eating to going to the bathroom is different up there. Astronauts undergo extensive training to prepare for these challenges, learning how to live in a world without gravity’s guiding hand.

In the grand scheme of things, the inability to burp is just one small part of the vast array of adjustments humans must make to thrive in space. It serves as a reminder of how finely tuned our bodies are to life on Earth, and how much we take for granted the invisible forces that shape our everyday experiences.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Ask an Explainer” — Smithsonian Institution

WTF Fun Fact 13675 – Boeing’s In-Flight Wifi Test

When Boeing set out to improve in-flight WiFi, they needed a solution to simulate how human passengers would affect signal strength and distribution. Enter the humble potato.

Yes, you read that correctly. Boeing used sacks of potatoes as stand-ins for passengers. This innovative approach, dubbed “Project SPUDS” (Synthetic Personnel Using Dielectric Substitution), played a crucial role in enhancing wireless connectivity on aircraft.

Boeing’s Use of Potatoes as Human Substitutes

So, why potatoes? The reason is scientific. Potatoes, due to their water content and chemical makeup, absorb and reflect radio and wireless signals similarly to the human body. This makes them ideal subjects for testing the in-flight wireless network, as engineers sought to ensure strong and consistent WiFi signals across all seats.

Boeing filled airplane seats with sacks of potatoes to mimic a fully booked flight. This setup allowed them to measure the WiFi signals’ behavior accurately. Engineers could then adjust the placement of WiFi transmitters and receivers in the cabin to optimize signal strength and distribution, ensuring passengers could enjoy stable and fast internet access.

From Spuds to Solutions

The use of potatoes went beyond mere convenience. It offered a cost-effective and efficient method to test and refine in-flight WiFi systems. Traditional methods of using human volunteers for such tests were not only time-consuming but also less reliable due to the variability in human behavior and positioning. Potatoes, on the other hand, provided a consistent and controlled environment for testing.

Project SPUDS showcased how thinking outside the box—or the sack, in this case—can lead to innovative solutions to complex problems. Boeing’s engineers demonstrated that sometimes, the most unconventional tools can offer the best answers.

Impacts on In-Flight WiFi

The research and adjustments made possible by Project SPUDS significantly improved the quality of in-flight WiFi services. Passengers now enjoy better connectivity, with fewer dead zones and stronger signals throughout the cabin. This improvement enhances the overall travel experience, allowing pa

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Boeing engineers use spuds to improve in-air Wi-Fi” — Phys.org