Today's Myths

Q: Crows can recognize individual human faces

Confirmed: Research has shown that crows can remember and recognize specific human faces for years. They can also communicate perceived threats to other crows, who will then mob the identified person even without direct experience.

Q: Lightning never strikes the same place twice

Busted: Lightning frequently strikes the same location repeatedly, especially tall or isolated structures.

Q: Peanuts are true nuts

Busted: Peanuts are legumes that grow underground in pods, more closely related to beans, lentils, and soybeans than to tree nuts like almonds or walnuts.

Q: Banana peels are dangerously slippery

Plausible: Banana peels are genuinely slippery due to polysaccharide follicular gel released when the inner surface is compressed. However, the danger is often exaggerated in popular culture. The coefficient of friction is about 0.07, similar to lubricated metal on metal.

Q: A pregnant woman eats for two.

Busted: While a pregnant woman does need increased calories, the phrase 'eating for two' is misleading and can lead to unhealthy weight gain. Caloric needs increase gradually, with only a small additional amount required in the first trimester, and around 300-500 extra calories per day in the second and third trimesters. The focus should be on nutrient-dense foods, not simply double portions.

Discover the truth behind popular myths — busted, confirmed, or plausible? Vote on what you believe, debate with the community, and learn something new every day.

Animals

Today's Myths

“Crows can recognize individual human faces”

“Lightning never strikes the same place twice”

“Peanuts are true nuts”

“Banana peels are dangerously slippery”

“A pregnant woman eats for two.”

“Eating bread crusts makes your hair curly.”

“Penicillin was discovered completely by accident”

“Swimming immediately after eating causes cramps that can drown you”

“Elephants are afraid of mice”

“Shaving makes hair grow back thicker and darker”

“Green tea burns fat significantly”

“Napoleon Bonaparte was unusually short”

“Spicy food causes stomach ulcers”

“Vitamin C prevents the common cold”

“Hydrogen peroxide is a good wound antiseptic”