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TIL the Toyota prius is described as “the biggest user of rare earths of any object in the world” as each battery pack uses 10–15 kg (22–33 lb) of lanthanum, and each electric motor contains 1 kg (2 lb) of neodymium

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wQkJ TIL China’s only monogamous emperor made the decision to promote monogamy because one of his father’s women murdered his mom. He was hidden because the consort killed the emperor’s heirs in an attempt to gain power. When it was discovered that one had survived, she killed his mom instead.
R7dy4 TIL that dog and cat feces is a better fertilizer than most manures because of it's high phosphorus content.
nexvP TIL That M&Ms were created to be convenient chocolate for the US Military & were Military-exclusive during WWII
J1bXm TIL In the middle ages it was customary to fly the opposing lords banner when surrendering, to signify a changing of allegiance. The many French victories during this period led to the Capetian dynasty’s white banner becoming associated with surrender in general as the white flag.
ymPw TIL In the Victorian era, there were special moustache cups for drinking tea. The cup kept men’s moustache wax out of the tea so it wouldn’t melt into their cup when they took a sip.