Earthquake Magnitude Explained: Why a 7 Is So Much Worse Than a 6
Each step up the earthquake magnitude scale means about 32 times more energy released. Here is how earthquakes are measured, why magnitude and shaking differ and how to stay safe.
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How a Bill Really Becomes Law: Congress Explained in Plain English
Thousands of bills are introduced in every Congress and only a small share become law. Here is each step from introduction to the president's desk, and where bills usually get stuck.
Why Leaves Change Color in the Fall: The Chemistry Behind the Reds, Yellows and Oranges
Fall colors come from pigments that are either hidden all summer or made fresh in autumn. Sunny days and cool nights make the brightest displays. Here is the science of fall foliage.
Hurricane Season Ends November 30: How Hurricanes Form and How Their Strength Is Measured
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. NOAA predicted a below-normal 2026 season. Here is how hurricanes form, how categories work and what makes them deadly.
Holiday Pet Safety: The Foods, Plants and Decorations That Can Hurt Dogs and Cats
The holidays bring rich food, new plants and decorations into the house, and some are dangerous for pets. Here is what to keep out of reach and who to call in an emergency.
'Best By,' 'Use By,' 'Sell By': What Food Dates Really Mean and How Long Food Lasts
Except for infant formula, federal law doesn't require date labels on food, and most dates are about peak quality rather than safety. Here is what each label means and how long common foods last.
How to Cut Your Heating Bill This Winter Without Being Cold
Heating is the biggest energy cost for many homes in winter. Turning the thermostat back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours a day can save up to 10% a year. Here are the fixes that matter most.
Why 'All I Want for Christmas Is You' Climbs the Charts Every Year
Mariah Carey's 1994 song first reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2019, 25 years after its release. Streaming is the reason classic holiday songs now dominate the charts each December.
How Streaming Numbers Work: Netflix 'Views,' Nielsen's Gauge and What a Hit Really Means
Streaming hits are announced in hours watched, 'views' and share of TV time, and each measures something different. Here is how the numbers work and why they are hard to compare.
Movie and TV Ratings Explained: What PG-13, R and TV-MA Actually Mean
Ratings on movies, TV shows and video games are voluntary systems run by each industry, not by the government. Here is what each label means and how families can use them.
Sovereignty Wins the Breeders' Cup Classic as Aidan O'Brien Sets a Trainer Record
Sovereignty won the $7 million Breeders' Cup Classic at Keeneland on October 31, and Aidan O'Brien became the event's winningest trainer with 24 victories. Results and analysis from both days.
NFL Sunday: Lions End the Vikings' Unbeaten Run, Burrow Rallies the Bengals in Overtime
Detroit beat Minnesota 19-15 to leave the NFL with no unbeaten teams, Joe Burrow threw for 462 yards in a 43-36 overtime win and Tampa Bay won without completing a pass. The biggest results and what they mean.