April 1, 2005 (Vol. 25, No. 7)
URL:
http://howthingswork.virginia.edu/biography.html
Rating:
Strong Points: well written answers to questions
Weak Points: Many questions from non-scientists
Summary:
Have you ever wondered how a transformer works or whether the microwaves released by a wireless phone are harmless? Be honest, now. We’re all curious. The scientist in all of us is the focus of this informative site that aims to answer questions posed by anyone curious about how almost anything technological works. While there are some fairly pedestrian questions posed (“What happens to the momentum of an egg when it hits the ground?”), there are also some gems (“How do self-winding watches work?” or “If light has no mass, how can it be affected by gravity?”). If you’re looking for about an hour of fun reading, this is the place for you.
