› added 12 years ago

101

TIL there exists patents for a nuclear powered drill that heats up the tip of the drill to high enough temperatures to melt rocks and create a glass coated tunnel.

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via reddit.com

D1lbJ TIL that at birth babies eyes aren't developed enough to perceive colour or depth, it usually takes about 6 months for their vision to reach adult levels.
J1dyl TIL mosquitoes are picky, preferring some humans over others based on things like the amount of CO2 they exhale, body odor, body heat, and even the color of clothes. Apparently, they're also fans of beer drinkers and pregnant women. They might even remember you if you have proved as tasty before.
KYLAa TIL about the Oneida Nation, the US's first ally in the Revolutionary War, who were granted land protection after the war for a brief period.
7rgYp TIL that builders of Japan's Nijō castle created squeaky floors to prevent ninja assassins from sneaking in. The floors were designed so that just the lightest step produced a clearly audible sound, warning guards that danger is approaching and forcing a ninja to abandon his plots for the night.
R5jL7 TIL that the Oscar for Best International Feature is awarded to the country that the winning film originates from, not specifically to the director. Italy holds the most wins in the category (14), whilst France holds the most nominations (41).