Cast iron is created by smelting iron ore, charcoal, and limestone under intense air pressure. It is refined to create wrought iron, cast iron, or steel. It was first used in China around the 11th century BC and the name comes from its manufacturing process. Cast iron is used to create pots and pans and […]
Lye is a dangerous, alkaline chemical used for various purposes, including cleaning, food preservation, and soap making. Modern lye is sodium hydroxide, produced by a chemical reaction between soda and lime. Lye products can be harmful to surfaces and people, and should be used with caution and kept out of reach of children. Before modern […]
A connecting rod connects the piston to the crankshaft in an engine, transmitting power from the controlled explosion to the crankshaft. Car engines have one rod per cylinder, with four valves per cylinder in most front-wheel drive overhead cam engines. All four-stroke internal combustion engines have four strokes: intake, compression, combustion, and exhaust. A connecting […]
Drainage pipes remove water from an area to prevent flooding, erosion, and damage. Different types of pipes are used depending on the situation, such as PVC for durability, concrete for heavy piping, and flexible plastic for easy installation. Ceramic is also an option but is more likely to break. A drainage pipe is a pipe […]
Mastic asphalt is a dense building material used for paving and roofing. It is impermeable due to its high bitumen concentration and is resistant to water, chemicals, pests, and flames. Its disadvantage is its petroleum content and difficulty in working with high temperatures. Mastic asphalt is a building material that is used for paving, roofing […]
Diastolic dysfunction occurs when the heart doesn’t relax properly after contracting, leading to congestive heart failure. Causes include aging, obesity, hypertension, and ischemic heart disease. Symptoms include fatigue, difficulty breathing, and rapid heart rate. Lifestyle changes and medication can help manage the condition. Early diagnosis is important for preventing irreversible damage. Each heartbeat is made […]
Derived demand is when demand for goods and services is generated as a result of demand for other goods and services. This can lead to an increase in price for resources needed to produce a product. Companies can take advantage of this by creating product lines where all items produced are related to each other. […]
Net tonnage is a measure of a ship’s cargo space, not weight, and is calculated based on volume. The International Maritime Organization established rules for net tonnage in 1982, which have been ratified by at least 86 nations. Calculating net tonnage is complex and takes into account factors such as the ship’s length, depth, and […]
Mayonnaise is an emulsion of vinegar and egg yolks, used to dress sandwiches and creamy salads. Homemade mayonnaise requires practice to fully emulsify, while store-bought mayonnaise can be kept for up to six months. “Real mayonnaise” must contain 65% oil by weight and use only egg as an emulsifier. Mayonnaise is a condiment made from […]
Salamander heaters are high output heaters used to heat large open areas. They feature a high energy heat source and a fan that pushes cold air past the heat source. They were developed in the 1940s and are also known as salamander ovens or torpedo ovens. They can use gas, kerosene, or high output electrical […]
Post tubal ligation syndrome is a medical condition that affects some women who have undergone tubal ligation. Symptoms range from depression and anxiety to muscle and joint pain or loss of libido. The condition is believed to be caused by a decrease in reproductive hormones and can lead to irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, […]
An autopilot is a device that guides aircraft, ships, and spacecraft with little or no input from humans. It is necessary for long-distance flights to prevent pilot fatigue and errors. The first autopilot appeared in 1914, and modern autopilots have three levels of control. Most commercial aircraft have a three-axis autopilot, which can automate almost […]
Poppy seeds, harvested from the opium poppy plant, are used in both sweet and savory dishes and are an excellent source of nutrition. Poppy seed oil is used for cooking and pharmaceuticals, while the opium poppy is the source of the controlled substance opium. False positive drug test results can occur due to trace amounts […]
A ballcock is a device used to fill water tanks without overflow, commonly found in modern toilets. It consists of a floating ball attached to a lever and valve connected to the water inlet. Malfunctioning ballcocks can cause leaks or wasted water. Adjusting the float can make a toilet more efficient. Ball valves are also […]
A sailboat is powered by wind and sails, but can also use a diesel or gas engine for maneuvering. Boaters must be informed of the rules of boating. Sail trimming and the use of keels or center boards are necessary for steering. The rudder completes the steering process. A sailboat is a wind-powered vessel whose […]
A sugar spoon is a formal silverware used for spooning granulated sugar into tea or coffee. It has a deeper bowl and can have a square shape or fluted edges. A powdered sugar spoon is also available. It is used to distribute powdered sugar evenly over a dessert. A sugar spoon is a piece of […]
A bone drill is a surgical device used to fix broken bones by creating holes for surgical pins and screws to attach to. It saves limbs that would have required amputation, and its accuracy and speed promote faster healing. A bone drill is a device used by surgeons to fix broken bones. The bone drill […]
Industrial washing machines, such as washer extractors and clothes dryers, are used by laundry companies to process large quantities of clothing quickly. They can be heated by electric, gas, or steam, and newer designs are more energy efficient. The laundry business can be difficult due to continuous workload, noise, heat, and exposure to chemicals and […]
Propeller pitch and cupping affect a propeller’s performance. Stainless steel propellers are high-performance but expensive, while aluminum ones are cheaper and easier to replace. Cupping affects water spin-off, and a properly tuned propeller can pull water out from under the boat. Propeller pitch determines the speed and power a propeller will produce. The amount of […]
Ruote pasta, also known as cartwheel pasta, is shaped like a six-spoke cartwheel and is commonly used in soups, pasta salads, and meat dishes. It can be substituted for other pasta shapes and comes in various colors. Whole-wheat pasta is a healthier option. Homemade sauces can be added for flavor. Ruote pasta is more commonly […]
