Answerbag: scymitar72's answers

Answer to If you live in United States, what would you do or think if Jeb Bush were elected president?

Sun, 10 Sep 2006 10:11:24 -0700

If you live in United States, what would you do or think if Jeb Bush were elected president?

I would have to leave the country. :p

Answer to How would time be perceived if the world didn't rotate or orbit the sun?

Sun, 10 Sep 2006 10:09:14 -0700

How would time be perceived if the world didn't rotate or orbit the sun?

I think time would still be perceived in the manner it is now - linear. We would not have the cyclical seasons, but, events would still appear to happen in a linear manner, we would still perceive past/present/future. Our environment may look a lot different though and the way we measure...

Answer to In general, do governments act in the best interest of people they govern?

Sun, 10 Sep 2006 09:59:49 -0700

In general, do governments act in the best interest of people they govern?

Depends on the people in power. It's faulty thinking to generalize about a particular demographic - politicians are no different. A government is made up of individuals and as such can reflect the entire spectrum of individuals out there. There were and are governments that do act in the...

Answer to If you can't be allergic to latex condoms, then why was I burning when my partner put one on?

Sun, 10 Sep 2006 09:42:06 -0700

If you can't be allergic to latex condoms, then why was I burning when my partner put one on?

In my experience, sometimes a guy can get tiny abrasions after having a lot of sex (either with a partner or with self). Sometimes the lubricants and/or spermacide in the condoms can irritate these tiny abrasions and present as a burning sensation.

Answer to Is it acceptable to wear fishnet tights to work in an office?

Thu, 08 Dec 2005 19:59:01 -0800

Is it acceptable to wear fishnet tights to work in an office?

It really depends on how you wear them, as an accent to an otherwise fairly demure ensemble, or in a blatently sexy manner? Fishnets were worn all the time in the forties and do have a certain playfulness about them. So, it really depends on what you wear with them as to whether it would be...

Answer to Is it possible for a person to be born with purple eyes?

Wed, 09 Nov 2005 07:11:32 -0800

Is it possible for a person to be born with purple eyes?

Yes it is possible, anybody ever heard of Elizabeth Taylor? She was famous for her lavender eyes!

Answer to Is it easier for a couple to get a mortgage if they're married?

Tue, 25 Oct 2005 19:40:46 -0700

Is it easier for a couple to get a mortgage if they're married?

It all really does depend on income and stability, as stated in a previous answer, regardless of whether or not the mortgage applicant is married. In fact, the number of unmarried home buyers has sharply increased from just 15 years ago. The following is an excerpt from article published in an...

Answer to Can a reef occur out in the middle of the ocean far from dry land? If so, is it called a "reef," or something else?

Sun, 23 Oct 2005 20:10:40 -0700

Can a reef occur out in the middle of the ocean far from dry land? If so, is it called a "reef," or something else?

Reefs can occur far from dry land, in fact, they dot the Pacific. They are called 'atolls'. Here's the excerpt from http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761556011/Atoll.html "Atoll, ring-shaped coral reef surrounding a lakelike body of water, known as a lagoon. Atolls...

Answer to How does someone go about finding the owner of a vacant city lot to make an offer?

Sun, 23 Oct 2005 20:04:45 -0700

How does someone go about finding the owner of a vacant city lot to make an offer?

This is an entirely new answer :-) There are main three ways to identify a property; Parcel Number, Owner & Address. You only need one of these to find out about a property. A Tax Assessor�s Parcel Map will identify neighboring properties. First find the parcel number for your...

Answer to How many commercial airline flights are there per day in the United States?

Sun, 23 Oct 2005 19:29:07 -0700

How many commercial airline flights are there per day in the United States?

About 30,000. The following is an excerpt from: http://www.natca.org/mediacenter/bythenumbers.msp#1 "On any given day, more than 87,000 flights are in the skies in the United States. Only 35 percent, or just over 30,000 of those flights are commercial carriers, like American, United...

Answer to If someone is using a cell phone in the bathroom stall next to me, is it rude to flush?

Mon, 17 Oct 2005 18:25:54 -0700

If someone is using a cell phone in the bathroom stall next to me, is it rude to flush?

That's funny! This recently happened to me and I was flabbergasted that someone would actually discuss a real estate deal while relieving themselves. I don't know, it just seems wrong somehow! Then again, I don't even own a cell phone, so what do I know... I would have to say...

Answer to If you state your funeral wishes in a will, must they legally be carried out?

Sun, 16 Oct 2005 17:33:22 -0700

If you state your funeral wishes in a will, must they legally be carried out?

The truth is, I've never seen a funeral where the wishes of the departed were carried out to the 'T', no matter how many good intentions were involved and no matter how well known were the wishes of the departed. Somebody always screws something up; scattering ashes in the wrong...

Answer to If I eat yogurt and drink coffee, will the heat from the coffee destroy the beneficial bacteria in the yogurt?

Wed, 12 Oct 2005 18:02:07 -0700

If I eat yogurt and drink coffee, will the heat from the coffee destroy the beneficial bacteria in the yogurt?

The coffee won't kill the bacteria, but your stomach acids will! Here is an excerpt from: http://www.horselanguage.com/probiotics.html "It is often difficult to obtain beneficial bacteria in foods alone. And even if live bacteria are present, you'd have to eat a lot of yogurt...

Answer to I heard that refrigerators must be kept upright while they are being transported. Is this true?

Tue, 11 Oct 2005 19:41:56 -0700

I heard that refrigerators must be kept upright while they are being transported. Is this true?

Not necessarily. If you must transport a refrigerator on it's side, you need to allow 24 hours in an upright position before starting it up again. To be on the safe side, I would transport it upright to avoid any potential damage. I just wanted to note, for the record, that it is...

Answer to What are the names of the Seven Seas?

Fri, 07 Oct 2005 18:13:57 -0700

What are the names of the Seven Seas?

Here's some interesting information about the "Seven Seas" from: --http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_seas "Medieval European and Arabic literature often spoke of the Seven Seas. Which seven seas are intended depends on the context. The phrase "seven seas"...

Answer to What is Fascism?

Tue, 27 Sep 2005 20:22:40 -0700

What is Fascism?

"The term fascism has come to mean any system of government resembling Mussolini's, that in various combinations: 1. exalts the nation and party above the individual, with the state apparatus being supreme. 2. stresses loyalty to a single leader, and submission to a single...

Answer to How does Nazism differ from Fascism?

Tue, 27 Sep 2005 20:03:17 -0700

How does Nazism differ from Fascism?

"The extent and nature of the affinity between Fascism and Nazism has been the subject of much academic debate. Although the modern consensus sees Nazism as a type or offshoot of fascism, there are many experts who argue that Nazism was not fascist at all, either on the grounds that the...

Answer to Are most stars in the universe orbited by planets?

Tue, 27 Sep 2005 19:01:52 -0700

Are most stars in the universe orbited by planets?

Here's what I found on the subject: "At least 130 stars outside our solar system have been shown to have orbiting planets, based on a slight wobble in the stars' positions or a variation in intensity as planets pass in front of them." ...

Answer to How do you know if you've fallen out of love?

Mon, 26 Sep 2005 18:59:07 -0700

How do you know if you've fallen out of love?

I would have to say it's not the same as falling 'in' love, just opposite. It's not like rewinding a video tape. When you've really loved someone, you never really stop. Some part of your soul was touched by another and you are changed by love. It also really...

Answer to At what age do kittens become cats?

Mon, 26 Sep 2005 17:43:21 -0700

At what age do kittens become cats?

For dietary purposes, i.e. when kittens can start eating adult cat food, it's anywhere from 6-12 months. It depends, really, on who you ask. Assuming you're asking for dietary reasons, I do have a few ideas on the subject. Making the switch from kitten to adult cat food can...

Answer to What are the odds of catching a foul ball at a Major League Baseball game?

Thu, 22 Sep 2005 18:15:18 -0700

What are the odds of catching a foul ball at a Major League Baseball game?

This question is tough to answer because there are so many different factors that can dramatically change your odds. First, where in the ballpark are you sitting? Are you actively moving around, changing position as batters change from right to left handed? Did you bring any aids with you such...

Answer to What is the difference between the Nazi and the Republican party's doctrines?

Wed, 21 Sep 2005 19:58:02 -0700

What is the difference between the Nazi and the Republican party's doctrines?

One glaring difference is that Nazism's doctrine is based mainly on the superiority of the Aryan race. Republicanism places more importance on Nationalism (the extreme form of this being Fascism). Because there are so many forms of Republicanism around the world, it's hard to do a...

Answer to What determines the "visions" a person sees resulting from drug-related hallucinations?

Mon, 19 Sep 2005 07:26:57 -0700

What determines the "visions" a person sees resulting from drug-related hallucinations?

If you're asking what determines the content of the visions, that's depends on each individual's subconscience. People may experience similar symptoms, i.e. fear, paranoia, euphoria.The actual visions vary on what each individual might fear, be paranoid about or what makes them...

Answer to During high tide, when the sea level briefly rises are there "air pockets" at the bottom of the ocean because water cannot compress itself?

Sun, 18 Sep 2005 10:09:46 -0700

During high tide, when the sea level briefly rises are there "air pockets" at the bottom of the ocean because water cannot compress itself?

No. Remember, when it's high tide somewhere, it's low tide somewhere else. Tidal forces simply redistribute the waters of the earth. Here is a pretty good explanation of the ocean tides from the following link (I recommend visiting this link as it has some really great graphics to help...

Answer to When boiling water, what is the Mpemba effect?

Sun, 18 Sep 2005 09:53:35 -0700

When boiling water, what is the Mpemba effect?

"The Mpemba Effect is a special phenomenon where hot water freezes faster than cold water. The discovery of this effect was made by a high school student named Mpemba in Tanzania, Africa in 1969. He noticed this phenomenon while making ice cream and was curious enough to make note of it. His...

Answer to Are there nicknames for the different hood ornaments on cars?

Sun, 18 Sep 2005 09:36:20 -0700

Are there nicknames for the different hood ornaments on cars?

I don't think there are any industry accepted nicknames for hood ornaments. I did find that they are also known as car masots and flying ladies. Visit the link below to see some truly beautiful ornaments: http://northstargallery.com/cars/cargalflyingladies.htm A lot of hood ornaments...

Answer to When were guitar tabs first used?

Thu, 15 Sep 2005 16:16:39 -0700

When were guitar tabs first used?

First, what are 'guitar tabs'? Guitar tabs is tablature written for the guitar. What is tablature? "An instrumental notation indicating the string, fret, key, or finger to be used instead of the tone to be sounded" ...

Answer to When were the world's seven continents first named?

Thu, 15 Sep 2005 15:45:57 -0700

When were the world's seven continents first named?

EUROPE: "In Greek mythology, Europa was a Phoenician princess who was abducted by Zeus in bull form and taken to the island of Crete, where she gave birth to Minos. For Homer, Europa was a mythological queen of Crete, not a geographical designation. Later Europa stood for mainland Greece...

Answer to Can pregnancy symptoms be masked as PMS?

Wed, 14 Sep 2005 16:16:11 -0700

Can pregnancy symptoms be masked as PMS?

Depends on the kind of PMS symptoms you have. If you have severe cramping, back ache, bloating, then, well, not really. If you get moody, and certain areas become tender, then, yes. It's really very individual. For me, no way, pregnancy symptoms were very different than PMS symptoms....

Answer to Why would a guy rather remain promiscuous than be with his "dream girl"?

Wed, 14 Sep 2005 15:57:03 -0700

Why would a guy rather remain promiscuous than be with his "dream girl"?

The continuing debate over male promiscuity offers two possible causes. Is a man simply 'hardwired' to want as many different partners as possible or is it a result of sexual role playing produced by a male dominated society (come on folks, women finally got the right to vote in 1920,...

Answer to Why is watching a sunset not harmful to the eyes?

Mon, 12 Sep 2005 06:18:04 -0700

Why is watching a sunset not harmful to the eyes?

Here's what I found on the subject. The following is an excerpt from: http://mintaka.sdsu.edu/GF/vision/Galileo.html "In fact, in the article �Eye protective techniques for bright light,� published in Ophthalmology 90, 937-944 (1983), David H. Sliney wrote: When the sun is low...

Answer to Why are jockeys generally short?

Sat, 10 Sep 2005 20:43:33 -0700

Why are jockeys generally short?

A person of shorter/smaller stature is preferred because you want the horse to carry the least weight possible when it's racing.

Answer to What area of the Middle East did Israel take as land for the new nation and what was their claim to this land?

Sat, 10 Sep 2005 20:13:37 -0700

What area of the Middle East did Israel take as land for the new nation and what was their claim to this land?

Isreal was formed in an historic region of Palestine: "Isreal, country in southwestern Asia, formed in 1948 as a Jewish state in the historic region of Palestine, and located on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. Israel is bounded on the north by Lebanon, on the northeast by...

Answer to Why are motorcycles called "crotch rockets"?

Fri, 09 Sep 2005 19:51:11 -0700

Why are motorcycles called "crotch rockets"?

There are several different types of motorcyles, not all motorcylces are considered 'crotch rockets'. 'Crotch Rockets' belong to the sport bike group. Below is an excerpt from: http://www.totalmotorcycle.com/school-SectionThree.htm (this link explains all groups of...

Answer to Are parts of California sinking?

Sun, 04 Sep 2005 07:48:58 -0700

Are parts of California sinking?

In short, yes. Here's the kicker - some of the sinking is man made. Parts of California suffer from what geologists call subsidence caused by groundwater pumping. The Santa Ana basin is currently sinking about a 1/2 inch per year. This is caused by a seasonal filling and draining of...

Answer to What happens physiologically when you get the wind knocked out of you?

Tue, 30 Aug 2005 07:25:22 -0700

What happens physiologically when you get the wind knocked out of you?

Your diaphram muscle, which sits just below your lungs, goes into a spasm and prevents you from inhaling. "According to one doctor as well as the ever-useful Straight Dope column, it's all about your diaphragm. This dome-shaped muscle sits below your lungs, and it helps your windbags...

Answer to Is it possible for organic molecules to form in an oxygen-free atmosphere?

Mon, 29 Aug 2005 19:43:30 -0700

Is it possible for organic molecules to form in an oxygen-free atmosphere?

Yes, as long as you define atmosphere as the gaseous envelope of a celestial body. If you mean an oxygen-free environment, then, I'm not so sure. Oxygen paired up with a couple Hydrogen (H2O) is a different story. "The 'Miller Experiments' were able to achieve...

Answer to How can I find out how much homes in a certain area have sold for recently?

Mon, 29 Aug 2005 18:43:03 -0700

How can I find out how much homes in a certain area have sold for recently?

This question would be a lot easier to answer if I knew the location! You can check with a local realtor to find out how to search and compare "Sold Listings". If you don't want to deal with somebody trying to get your business, you might visit a local realtor website and see if...

Answer to Why do girls get turned off when guys use pick-up lines?

Mon, 29 Aug 2005 18:29:12 -0700

Why do girls get turned off when guys use pick-up lines?

For me, the pick-up line is just too generic. A bad pick-up line is a direct reflection of the person who is using it. A generic, over used line shows me the guy lacks imagination. Plus, it makes the guy look like a dog! Who wants to go out with someone who has a limited imagination, not...

Answer to How did "911" come to be used for emergencies and when was it first put into use?

Mon, 29 Aug 2005 17:54:55 -0700

How did "911" come to be used for emergencies and when was it first put into use?

In addition to the reasons listed in KCTrey's excellent answer; another reason "911" became the emergency number is the number had to be easy to dial in the dark. EDIT: I guess this really falls under the previously mentioned "easy to dial on purpose" category. Oh...

Answer to What is the complete NATO official phonetic alphabet (Alpha, Bravo... Zulu)?

Mon, 29 Aug 2005 07:31:24 -0700

What is the complete NATO official phonetic alphabet (Alpha, Bravo... Zulu)?

A Alpha B Bravo C Charlie D Delta E Echo F Foxtrot G Golf H Hotel I India J Juliett K Kilo L Lima M Mike N November O Oscar P Papa Q Quebec R Romeo S Sierra T Tango U Uniform V Victor W Whiskey X X-ray Y Yankee Z Zulu ...

Answer to Why do hot dogs come in packages of six and the buns come in packages of eight?

Tue, 23 Aug 2005 18:51:44 -0700

Why do hot dogs come in packages of six and the buns come in packages of eight?

The disparity between dogs and buns varies depending upon where in the world you live. Some countries, like Argentina, don't suffer from this problem. Their dogs come in 6 and the buns come in 6 or 12. In America, this problem is rampant throughout the land. This problem is not...

Answer to What is the quickest route to world domination for the average person?

Mon, 22 Aug 2005 18:28:43 -0700

What is the quickest route to world domination for the average person?

There are three basic steps to global dominion, as I see it. The first thing you need to do is to get the attention of the people you wish to control. The quickest way to control group of people is to make them afraid. Fear has a funny way of making otherwise reasonably intelligent people...

Answer to Has anyone in the history of man ever had an IQ of 0?

Sun, 21 Aug 2005 12:14:15 -0700

Has anyone in the history of man ever had an IQ of 0?

An IQ of 0 is very hard to determine as the distribution of IQ scores is more-or-less Gaussian, that is it follows the famous "bell curve". The scores are adjusted based on average scores of a particular age group, thus IQ scores outside the range 55 to 145 are essentially meaningless...

Answer to My husband spends a lot of his free time on Answerbag and doesn't pay much attention to me any more. What can I do to get him to spend more time with me?

Sat, 20 Aug 2005 19:49:45 -0700

My husband spends a lot of his free time on Answerbag and doesn't pay much attention to me any more. What can I do to get him to spend more time with me?

Become a regular on Answerbag too and then you two would have more to talk about! Or, parade around the computer in a sexy outfit holding an encyclopedia? Or you could try the old standby - a nice heavy rolling pin. My cat tries to get me away from the computer by digging in the bathroom...

Answer to How were the states' boundaries decided?

Sat, 20 Aug 2005 10:40:50 -0700

How were the states' boundaries decided?

"The boundaries of the United States were determined as a result of treaties, purchases, colonial charters, and acts of Congress." Below is a really interesting link about these boundaries: http://nationalatlas.gov/boundaries.html

Answer to How can one argue that US income tax is unconstitutional?

Wed, 17 Aug 2005 19:10:09 -0700

How can one argue that US income tax is unconstitutional?

Income taxation falls under the 16th Amendment of the Constitution. Arguments have been made that this amendment was never fully ratified. Below is an excerpt from: http://www.wealth4freedom.com/16thHistory.htm "Strange as it may seem, the Sixteenth Amendment (which gave the...

Answer to Can you seize the day only if you want to?

Tue, 16 Aug 2005 18:56:46 -0700

Can you seize the day only if you want to?

As with any other piece of advice, cooperation is optional.

Answer to How did the idea that aliens inhabit Mars get started?

Mon, 15 Aug 2005 22:21:35 -0700

How did the idea that aliens inhabit Mars get started?

There has been much deliberation regarding the possibility of life on Mars. Four major examples that come to mind are the fictional stories written, Schiaparelli's discovery of canal like features on the face of Mars, Percival Lowell's assertion these canals were built by an ancient...

Answer to What is the law regarding recording someone (audio, video, camera) without their consent?

Sun, 14 Aug 2005 11:01:32 -0700

What is the law regarding recording someone (audio, video, camera) without their consent?

What you are describing is called Surreptitious Recording. Here's some info I found on this: The following is from: http://www.rcfp.org/handbook/c03p01.html Of the 50 states, 38, as well as the District of Columbia, allow you to record a conversation to which you are a party...

Answer to Has there ever been a day without rain in the whole world in recorded history?

Sun, 14 Aug 2005 10:49:56 -0700

Has there ever been a day without rain in the whole world in recorded history?

My guess would be no, there has never been a day without rain (or precpitation) in the whole world, ever. NASA's ICESat satellite has provided the most accurate figure to date, and tells us that 70 percent of the world is cloud covered. That's a lot of clouds! I think it would be...

Answer to How can I improve my sense of balance?

Sun, 14 Aug 2005 10:23:57 -0700

How can I improve my sense of balance?

The following is an excerpt from: http://www.fitnessusa.com/Balance.htm Balance is the most overlooked element of fitness and should rank right up there with strength and endurance, but gets overlooked until you have a problems. Various sports activities can call for good balance and...

Answer to What wines go well with smoked gouda?

Sat, 13 Aug 2005 19:29:58 -0700

What wines go well with smoked gouda?

You can go with a complex, full-bodied red, such as a Merlot. You can also go with a Chardonnay when enjoying smoked gouda. Here is a link to a web site that will let you search by wine or cheese to find the best match. It's super easy to use and really pretty interesting (you'll...

Answer to How does one know if they are truly forgiven?

Tue, 09 Aug 2005 17:52:40 -0700

How does one know if they are truly forgiven?

Faith in the promise of forgiveness when asking in earnest.

Answer to What are the advantages and disadvantages of a tiled shower stall vs. a fiberglass shower stall?

Mon, 01 Aug 2005 20:54:33 -0700

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a tiled shower stall vs. a fiberglass shower stall?

Fiberglass: Easy to clean, modern look and it can be less expensive than tile. Also, it takes less time to install (installation can be tricky - you must get the correct fit and ensure it's sealed properly, otherwise you could find yourself with a very expensive bill to repair the damage...

Answer to How can I remove tree sap from my car?

Mon, 01 Aug 2005 18:49:08 -0700

How can I remove tree sap from my car?

Ok, so my first answer was a flop. Maybe this will be more helpful??? Here's the link: http://www.bmwworld.com/repairs/detailing/tree_sap.htm "To remove the tree sap from your vehicle's surface, you can use finger nail polish remover on a cotton ball. After the sap is...

Answer to Is there a god, and either way, how do we know?

Sun, 31 Jul 2005 13:33:45 -0700

Is there a god, and either way, how do we know?

Simply put, God cannot be proven to exist, at least by any scientific means. That's why faith is so important. The scriptures ask us to put our faith/belief in something that cannot be proven to exist. And, according to those scriptures, that's how your place will be decided after...

Answer to If the Bible says we should not kill, why are many Christians in the military and in a situation where they may have to kill others?

Sun, 31 Jul 2005 10:44:51 -0700

If the Bible says we should not kill, why are many Christians in the military and in a situation where they may have to kill others?

This is an EXAMPLE of one person's struggle with this very question. Many thousands of people must struggle with this question every day, I chose this example to shed some light on how one christian man came to terms with this dilemma in favor of fighting. This may not be the...

Answer to How can I remove tree sap from my car?

Sat, 30 Jul 2005 20:46:44 -0700

How can I remove tree sap from my car?

The following answer is an excerpt from: www.ehow.com/how_10396_remove-tree-sap.html 1. Gather together a soft rag (an old T-shirt is perfect) and a sap-dissolving solution. You can use a commercially prepared solution...

Answer to Is each generation of humans becoming taller than the last? If so, why?

Sat, 30 Jul 2005 19:59:28 -0700

Is each generation of humans becoming taller than the last? If so, why?

This is a difficult question because the trends vary depending upon the region of the globe. Where medical care and proper nutrition are readily available, growth trends are rising. Where there is an absence of these, growth trends decrease. More so than evolution, as Encyclopedia John stated,...

Answer to How do I soothe the burning sensation from eating jalapeno peppers?

Sun, 24 Jul 2005 20:09:36 -0700

How do I soothe the burning sensation from eating jalapeno peppers?

Falconrath's answer (drinking milk) is correct. Please see following excerpts: "If you find that you simply can't bear the heat after eating a chile pepper, try to consume a dairy product, like milk, yogurt, or ice cream. Dairy products contain a chemical called caisen that...

Answer to What is the highest point on earth that you can reach by car?

Sat, 23 Jul 2005 16:13:58 -0700

What is the highest point on earth that you can reach by car?

One of the highest places you can take your car is to Ojos del Salado in Chile. This is the world's tallest volcano at about 22,560 feet. If you live in the U.S. and want some place closer to home, try Colorado. It's many tall moutain peaks make for good high altitude driving. ...

Answer to What is chaos theory?

Mon, 18 Jul 2005 19:01:43 -0700

What is chaos theory?

This is an excerpt from the link below (that's why I put it in quotes...) --http://www.imho.com/grae/chaos/chaos.html "The name "chaos theory" comes from the fact that the systems that the theory describes are apparently disordered, but chaos theory is really about...

Answer to Do extraterrestrials have any protection under the law?

Mon, 18 Jul 2005 18:47:06 -0700

Do extraterrestrials have any protection under the law?

Alien life forms, large or small, currently have no rights in current international and national law. This is a link to a really good article about this very subject: --http://www.spacedaily.com/news/life-01zg2.html Interesting little nugget; there was a law (which was removed in 1991)...

Answer to Is it true that half the people who have ever been alive are still alive now? I find that impossible to believe.

Sun, 17 Jul 2005 11:04:19 -0700

Is it true that half the people who have ever been alive are still alive now? I find that impossible to believe.

No this is not true. It is estimated that 106.4 billion people have ever lived. 2004 global population was 6.4 billion, which is only about 6% of the total number of people who have ever lived. Here's an excerpt from an interesting web site (link below): "World Population: How...

Answer to What style of martial arts would be appropriate for a young child who needs it to channel mild aggression?

Thu, 07 Jul 2005 21:14:02 -0700

What style of martial arts would be appropriate for a young child who needs it to channel mild aggression?

It seems you should match the fighting style with the child's personality. Judo may be too laid back if your child has aggressive tendencies. The article below mentions tae kwon do as an option. This might be the better choice because it's so popular, you shouldn't have a...

Answer to What are some good predator bugs that can take care of aphids and gnats on my plants?

Wed, 06 Jul 2005 19:07:30 -0700

What are some good predator bugs that can take care of aphids and gnats on my plants?

For Aphids: "When ants aren't keeping them away, the best natural predators for aphids include ladybugs, ladybug larvae (which look like little alligators), birds, lacewings, lacewing larvae (called aphid lions), earwigs, hover (flower or syrphid) �y larvae, soldier beetles, and...

Answer to What are the pros and cons of being an only child?

Tue, 05 Jul 2005 18:40:54 -0700

What are the pros and cons of being an only child?

There are quite a few opinions in the world about this subject. My best suggestion would be to read about the subject - but read a variety of material, so as to form a balanced and informed opinion of your own. I've been both a sibling and an only child - my brothers and I were...

Answer to What are some forms of "road rage" and how can it be illegal?

Sun, 03 Jul 2005 10:57:56 -0700

What are some forms of "road rage" and how can it be illegal?

Road rage is when a traffic situation is escalated because of one or more drivers acting out of anger or rage. For example, a person may become so angry over an aggressive driving incident that he or she overreacts and retaliates with some type of violence. These violent acts may range from a...

Answer to My home has been invaded by centipedes! Why are they here and how can I make them leave?

Sun, 03 Jul 2005 10:45:14 -0700

My home has been invaded by centipedes! Why are they here and how can I make them leave?

Chronic problems with centipedes should be addressed by reducing the types of habitats outdoors which encourage their presence. This should include removal of trash, rocks, boards, compost piles, and other hiding places around the structure. Also, caulking and other exclusion techniques may be...

Answer to How can I become a food critic?

Sun, 03 Jul 2005 10:26:23 -0700

How can I become a food critic?

Although most people seem to think that being a restaurant critic is an easy job that just about anyone can do (just read a "how-to" book and you're half-way there!), there actually are a few job requirements. Being interested in and knowledgeable about food isn't enough. ...

Answer to Who "invented" the weekend and why?

Mon, 27 Jun 2005 08:14:41 -0700

Who "invented" the weekend and why?

The weekend came about so that people may have time to observe their religous/spiritual beliefs. Even the pagans of ancient Rome had a day of rest on the day of the Sun, or Sunday. Originally, for both Christians and Jews alike, the sabbath was on Saturday. The Catholic church (some say it...

Answer to What is the equation for finding the day of the week for a particular date?

Fri, 24 Jun 2005 19:08:45 -0700

What is the equation for finding the day of the week for a particular date?

After finding this algorithm, I decided to include a link to an online perpetual calendar in case your math skills are a little rusty... http://www.vpcalendar.net/20th_21st.html If you're interested in making your own, see the free plan below (just be sure to scroll down past the...

Answer to What year was beer invented?

Fri, 24 Jun 2005 18:43:10 -0700

What year was beer invented?

Somewhere between 7,000 and 9,000 years ago. "One of the oldest beverages man has produced, dating back to at least the 5th millennium BC and recorded in the written history of Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, the character of beer has changed drastically over the millennia." ...

Answer to Have there been any US Presidents that didn't attend college?

Thu, 23 Jun 2005 18:21:36 -0700

Have there been any US Presidents that didn't attend college?

Yes, Nine. They were: Washington Jackson Van Buren Taylor Fillmore Lincoln A. Johnson Cleveland Truman --http://www.infoplease.com/spot/prestrivia1.html

Answer to Does prescription penicillin help you pass the drug test for THC?

Wed, 22 Jun 2005 20:30:50 -0700

Does prescription penicillin help you pass the drug test for THC?

No. However, certain antibiotics such as Penicillin and Tetracycline can cause false positive results for heroin or cocaine. So, not a good idea to even test that theory.

Answer to Is there a god, and either way, how do we know?

Wed, 22 Jun 2005 20:08:53 -0700

Is there a god, and either way, how do we know?

Faith.

Answer to About how many people are imprisoned worldwide?

Wed, 22 Jun 2005 20:06:26 -0700

About how many people are imprisoned worldwide?

Boy is my face red... The latest estimate by the International Centre for Prison Studies out of King's College in London is 9 million people held in penal institutions throughout the world. Here is a link to their pdf titled World Prison Population List. It's only 6 pages and is...

Answer to Is it true that a hospital won't try as hard to save someone who has signed up to be an organ donor?

Tue, 21 Jun 2005 19:00:44 -0700

Is it true that a hospital won't try as hard to save someone who has signed up to be an organ donor?

It's definitely not outside the realm of possibility. To say that hospitals do this in general would be incorrect. It's not a generally accepted 'policy' of hospitals to do this. Does this ever happen? It seems quite a few people believe so, as evidenced by all the lawsuits...

Answer to Can a person with a criminal record still become President of the United States?

Mon, 20 Jun 2005 19:28:25 -0700

Can a person with a criminal record still become President of the United States?

Yes. In fact, George W. Bush is the first President in US history to enter office with a criminal record. The only charge that he has openly admitted to is the 1976 DUI conviction in Maine. http://archives.cnn.com/2000/ALLPOLITICS/stories/11/02/bush.dui/ Here are the requirements for...

Answer to What is the official income of the US President?

Mon, 20 Jun 2005 19:07:15 -0700

What is the official income of the US President?

$400,000 / year. In September 1999, President Clinton signed legislation that increased the presidential salary to $400,000 (from $200,000), effective January 2001. The constitution prohibits pay raises for sitting presidents. In addition to his salary, the President gets numerous expense...

Answer to Why are four-leaf clovers considered to be lucky?

Mon, 20 Jun 2005 18:38:30 -0700

Why are four-leaf clovers considered to be lucky?

"When Adam and Eve were evicted from the Garden of Eden, Eve snatched a 4-leaf clover (which were plentiful in the Garden) as a remembrance of her days in Paradise. Also, the rarity of the plant (at one time) contributed to its value, although seeds which grow only 4-leaf clovers are now...

Answer to Is it illegal to park on the wrong side of the street (facing opposite the direction of traffic)?

Sun, 19 Jun 2005 10:27:17 -0700

Is it illegal to park on the wrong side of the street (facing opposite the direction of traffic)?

Yes it is. A vehicle may not park facing the wrong direction, or more than 18" from the curb (the curb of the side on which you are suppossed to park). At least this is the law in California - I found out the hard way...

Answer to Can a police officer pull you over for appearing to be too young to drive?

Sat, 18 Jun 2005 20:14:04 -0700

Can a police officer pull you over for appearing to be too young to drive?

Yes, you can be pulled over for appearing to young to drive. All an officer needs to have is reasonable suspicion that an offense has occurred (since underage driving is an offense...).

Answer to In Texas, where can I report that an apartment management company/complex is not doing repairs or even responding to my request to have the problem fixed?

Wed, 15 Jun 2005 19:33:08 -0700

In Texas, where can I report that an apartment management company/complex is not doing repairs or even responding to my request to have the problem fixed?

I would write a synopsis of the info on the site below, but it could appear as offering legal advice :-] The link below clearly defines the procedure, step by step, of how to deal with a landlord who is failing to make requested repairs, according to Texas State Law. ...

Answer to How do casinos make money on poker?

Wed, 15 Jun 2005 19:06:39 -0700

How do casinos make money on poker?

Casinos make their money at these games by taking a small percentage of the winning pot. There is no house edge because you're playing against the other players at the table with you. http://www.goingtovegas.com/kpv-pokr.htm

Answer to When a relationship between an Aquarius and Aries ends, is there a chance it will rekindle in the future?

Wed, 15 Jun 2005 18:57:05 -0700

When a relationship between an Aquarius and Aries ends, is there a chance it will rekindle in the future?

Exes are from Uranus...But seriously folks: If the Aries is determined enough, they will stop at nothing to win back the Aquarius. The link below is really interesting. I couldn't find anything about an Aquarius Ex :-( Here's the info for an Aries Ex: ...

Answer to If someone living in the United States has 2 lawsuits pending against them in Thailand, one of which is a million-dollar lawsuit, would the Thailand goverment or authorities be able to force this person to return to Thailand to deal with the charges?

Tue, 14 Jun 2005 17:52:55 -0700

If someone living in the United States has 2 lawsuits pending against them in Thailand, one of which is a million-dollar lawsuit, would the Thailand goverment or authorities be able to force this person to return to Thailand to deal with the charges?

Without knowing the nature of the offense that was commited in Thailand, it is hard to answer the question. I did find some information about the extradition treaties in effect between the US and Thailand: "There are two principle bilateral treaties between the United States and...

Answer to How can I tell how much house I can afford?

Tue, 14 Jun 2005 07:24:45 -0700

How can I tell how much house I can afford?

How much house you can afford is based on your debt to income ratio. How much disposable income are you left with after paying all your bills? How much house you can afford is based on how much you can afford to pay for your monthly mortgage payment. Here is a useful link to a "How...

Answer to Why is it considered bad luck if you spill salt?

Mon, 13 Jun 2005 08:17:42 -0700

Why is it considered bad luck if you spill salt?

This superstition dates way the heck back to when salt was a mighty precious thing. Salt is necessary to sustain life and back then, you couldn't just run to the quicky mart and pick up a couple of pounds for less than a buck. To spill it would be so clumsy / disrespectful / wasteful that...

Answer to Is it illegal to drive with sandals on in California?

Sun, 12 Jun 2005 09:05:27 -0700

Is it illegal to drive with sandals on in California?

No it is not illegal. The law was revised about 10-12 years ago and that section was removed from the CVC. This info is straight from a police officer's forum. Not to mention, I was born and raised in SAN DIEGO. Currdog is trippin...

Answer to Was the mob responsible for getting Frank the role of Maggio in From Here to Eternity?

Sun, 12 Jun 2005 09:03:48 -0700

Was the mob responsible for getting Frank the role of Maggio in From Here to Eternity?

I am not sure this is something anyone can know for sure - unless you have connections with this group! The movie "The Godfather" certainly suggests this - remember at the wedding, one of the people the Godfather had a meeting with was an actor begging to be cast in a role that was...

Answer to How can you increase your lung capacity?

Sun, 12 Jun 2005 08:58:08 -0700

How can you increase your lung capacity?

There must be more than a few ways to achieve greater lung capacity, the way with which I am most familiar is swimming/exercising in water. Just like with many activities, if you practice enough, your body with start to make changes to be more efficient. You'll note that well...

Answer to Why does oil create a rainbow film when mixed with water?

Fri, 10 Jun 2005 18:54:58 -0700

Why does oil create a rainbow film when mixed with water?

First of all, oil and water don't mix - they agree to peacefully coexist! Tiny drops of oil can become suspended in water, but they will eventually find their way to the surface and float. What you're seeing is light being refracted by the oil diffently from water. What is...

Answer to I cheated on my ex and I want him back. How can I regain his trust?

Fri, 10 Jun 2005 18:24:23 -0700

I cheated on my ex and I want him back. How can I regain his trust?

Having had someone do this to me, here goes: I had to truly forgive the person before I could feel trust. This person's behavior had really very little to do with my finding forgiveness. I suppose you could simply be patient and if they permit it, let that person know of your remorse....

Answer to How can I, a simple citizen, write a law and get it enacted?

Tue, 07 Jun 2005 18:46:24 -0700

How can I, a simple citizen, write a law and get it enacted?

My answer doesn't answer the question! Oooopppps! If you want to know the answer, please see Schlim's contribution. I was going to try to delete this answer, but I think the info is still useful, so I left it alone. I was suffering from a rectal-cranial inversion and decided to...

Answer to Is it okay to drink coffee that's been sitting out all day?

Wed, 01 Jun 2005 17:44:34 -0700

Is it okay to drink coffee that's been sitting out all day?

If you can stand the taste! If you are asking if it "goes bad", the only thing I could find is the following: "Brewed coffee will deteriorate, though not all at the same rate. If you take a commercial coffee like maxwell house or folgers and let it get cold, it will be...

Answer to What makes a cat purr?

Tue, 31 May 2005 19:34:03 -0700

What makes a cat purr?

"Purring is an integral part of the feline communication system and occurs for a variety of reasons. It is classified with the �murmur vocalization� group, which involves sounds produced by a cat while the mouth is closed. In addition to purring, this group of sounds includes grunting,...

Answer to Are male cats still attracted to spayed female cats?

Tue, 31 May 2005 19:07:42 -0700

Are male cats still attracted to spayed female cats?

And anything else that about the size of another cat - including my brother's shin! lol But seriously folks... Since both the ovaries and uterus are removed in the Spaying process, I am not sure that she could attract a Tom (unaltered male) assuming she no longer produces the right...

Answer to My cat attacks me (only me) violently and without provocation. His pupils dilate and he latches onto my arm or leg. Why does he do this and how can I get him to stop?

Tue, 31 May 2005 18:27:36 -0700

My cat attacks me (only me) violently and without provocation. His pupils dilate and he latches onto my arm or leg. Why does he do this and how can I get him to stop?

I would like to add a 5th possible reason: Bartonella (aka Cat Scratch Fever). This is a very real problem (over 60% of all cats in California are estimated to be infected). This is a strain of bacteria that causes an inflammatory disease. Infected cats can become very aggresive. This is...