Facts That Are Actually Myths
Sometimes we think something is “common knowledge,” only to find out it’s just a myth! In this article, we reveal the myths we frequently hear in daily life that are actually quite different from reality. If you’re ready, let’s dive in!
Ostriches Bury Their Heads in the Sand When Frightened
This legend is so widespread that the phrase “head in the sand” has even become an idiom. The truth, however, is that ostriches don’t do this! When threatened, they prefer to run away at speeds of up to 70 km/h (43 mph). So where did this myth come from? It’s likely a misinterpretation of ostriches checking their eggs in the sand or lowering their heads to the ground.
Is Mount Everest the World’s Tallest Peak?
Yes, Everest is the first mountain that comes to mind for anyone who wants to summit a peak. But scientifically, it’s not the tallest! Everest may have the highest elevation above sea level. However, if the base is measured from the ocean floor, Mauna Kea (in Hawaii) is much taller. So, Everest might be king in mountaineering, but the world record belongs to another mountain.
Touching a Frog Gives You Warts
We all heard it as children: “Don’t touch the frog, or you’ll get warts on your hands!” But the cause of warts is the human papillomavirus (HPV). Frogs or other amphibians have nothing to do with it. Perhaps this myth originated from the bumpy texture of a frog’s skin. Good news: we can now pet frogs freely (as long as we don’t stress them out!).
Hair and Nails Continue to Grow After Death
This detail, often seen in corpse scenes in horror movies, is actually an illusion. Hair and nails do not grow after death. However, they may appear longer because the skin dries out and recedes. So, those zombies climbing out of their graves don’t need a manicure!
Dogs Only See in Black and White
Don’t think, “My dog is colorblind!” Dogs can distinguish shades of blue and yellow, but red and green appear much duller to them. So, when choosing a toy, a blue ball might be more attention-grabbing!
Bulls Charge at the Color Red
The legend of the red cape (muleta) in bullfighting is a misconception. Bulls are colorblind; the actual trigger is the movement of the cape. In other words, a pink cape would have the same effect!
Different Areas of the Tongue Taste Different Flavors
The “tongue map” we learned in school is actually wrong! Every area of our tongue can perceive all tastes (sweet, salty, sour, bitter). This myth stems from a misinterpretation of a study in 1901.
Cracking Your Knuckles Causes Arthritis
No one grew up without hearing their mother’s warning: “Don’t crack your knuckles, or you’ll get arthritis later!” However, scientific studies show that cracking knuckles has no link to arthritis. The popping sound is caused by the bursting of gas bubbles in the joints. Of course, it’s best not to overdo it—excessive force can lead to other problems!
The Misconception That Bats Are Blind
The phrase “blind as a bat” is completely wrong! Most species of bats have eyes and can see. While they primarily use echolocation for hunting at night, that doesn’t mean they are blind. In fact, some fruit bats have excellent vision!
The Limitation That Humans Have Only Five Senses
The “five senses” we learned in school is very incomplete information! Humans have at least 9 different senses, including thermoception (sense of heat/cold), proprioception (sense of body position), nociception (pain), and the sense of balance. Some scientists claim this number could go up to 21!
The Misconception That Sushi Means Raw Fish
While raw fish immediately comes to mind when we hear “sushi” in popular culture, sushi actually means “vinegared rice.” While there are types of sushi that include raw fish (like sashimi or nigiri), there are also completely vegetarian sushi varieties. You don’t have to like raw fish to eat sushi!
Don’t Fall for the Myths, Do Your Research!
While these myths embedded in our lives are sometimes innocent and sometimes funny, it’s always better to know the facts. The next time you hear a “fact,” a little research might be a good idea. Who knows, maybe you’ll debunk a myth that surprises everyone around you!
I hope this article was both entertaining and informative!
References:
- Scientific American – Do We Only Use 10% of Our Brains?
- National Geographic – Ostriches Don’t Hide Their Heads in the Sand
- Harvard Health – Sugar and Hyperactivity
- WebMD – Can You Swallow Gum?
- American Kennel Club – Can Dogs See Color?
- Arthritis Foundation – Knuckle Cracking Myth
- Scientific American – The Truth About Bats’ Vision