physics « How Come?

How come, if you put water and oil together, the water will rise and the oil will sink?

How come, if you put water and oil together, the water will rise and the oil will sink? asks Walton Rea, a student in Brookville, NY.

Actually — although it seems unlikely — the opposite occurs. It’s oil that does the rising. Just check out any oil-and- vinegar salad dressing in your refrigerator. (Note: vinegar [...]

Why does your tongue stick to freezing-cold metal? Also, why is it easier to burn your tongue or mouth on pizza than on a hot drink?

Why does your tongue stick to freezing-cold metal? Also, why is it easier to burn your tongue or mouth on pizza than on a hot drink? asks a reader.

In the movie “A Christmas Story,” it’s a triple-dog-dare that prompts Flick to taste a freezing-cold flagpole on a winter’s day in Indiana. When he can’t [...]

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How come, if you put water and oil together, the water will rise and the oil will sink?

Why does your tongue stick to freezing-cold metal? Also, why is it easier to burn your tongue or mouth on pizza than on a hot drink?