[Editorial] Everyday Wisdom

Question: In places with thunderstorms, can smoke be used to predict weather changes? Why? Answer: Due to the presence of clouds, the rising smoke indicates a decrease in atmospheric pressure. When pressure drops, it leads to rainfall. Hence, smoke is a useful predictor of rain.

Question: How can oil stains on clothing be removed? Answer: Employ turpentine, commonly known as turps in the West, for effective removal due to its cleaning properties.

Question: Why do empty soap bubbles burst? Answer: They burst due to the thinning of their water film. As the water evaporates, the bubble loses its structural integrity.

Question: How can silverware be protected from tarnishing? Answer: By keeping it in airtight containers with desiccants, silver can remain untarnished as the drying agents absorb moisture.

Question: Under what circumstances can mercury thermometers give inaccurate readings? Answer: When exposed to rapid temperature changes, as mercury’s expansion or contraction can lag behind the actual temperature, resulting in erroneous readings.