Myths that people still believe: See if you are not one of them
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For those who are focused on myths, check out this article for some myths that people still believe in and see if any of them make sense to you!
Have you ever wondered if what you believe might be an urban legend? Many popular beliefs still exist, even with science showing the truth.
Maybe you believe in myths like the brain only uses 10% or that the dark side of the moon never gets sunlight?
Let's show that these ideas are wrong and dominate our daily lives.
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Main points
- Our brain consumes 20% of the body's energy, disproving the 10% myth.
- The Moon receives sunlight equally across its entire surface.
- Studies from 1985 found no correlation between full moon and negative behaviors.
- Children's energy at parties is influenced by the presence of other children, not by the sugar.
- Lightning is an electrostatic discharge that usually hits high points, not a falling phenomenon.
Myths People Still Believe: The 10% Brain Myth
THE brain myth of the 10% says that we only use 10% of our brain. The rest, 90%, stays still. But scientists have shown that this is not true.
They proved that our use of the brain is much more complex and efficient.
Studies show that brain damage directly affects our brain functions.
This shows that every part of the brain is essential.
Furthermore, the brain consumes 20% of the body's energy, despite being small, only 2% of the body's weight.
| Myth of 10% | Scientific Facts |
|---|---|
| People only use 10% of the brain. | MRI scans show that all parts of the brain are active, even during sleep. |
| People with high IQs use more than 10%. | There is no direct relationship between IQ and the percentage of brain used. |
| 90% of the brain is inactive. | The mapping of brain functions does not reveal inactive areas. |
| Part of the brain can be activated at any time. | Experiments show that nearly 100% of the brain is active during complex tasks. |
Neuroplasticity shows that the brain reorganizes itself throughout life. This indicates a use of the brain highly efficient.
Even simple tasks like speaking use more than 10% of the brain.
This refutes the brain myth. Thus, we prove that the brain is essential for our brain capacities.
Myths People Still Believe: The Full Moon and Human Behavior
Since always, the Full moon fascinated people. Many believe that it influences our behavior.
But, scientific studies show that this is not true.
In 1985, an American study found no link between the Moon and our behavior.
This debunked many old myths.
Despite this, 45% of young people still believe that the Moon changes how we act.
Health professionals are the most convinced. In 2007, British police increased surveillance on nights of Full moon.
This measure was based on the myth that the Moon increases crime. But science does not agree with this.
Science says the Moon doesn't affect people much.
This is because the gravitational effect of the Moon is very small. It mainly affects large bodies of water, such as the oceans.
| Study | Conclusion |
|---|---|
| 1985 meta-analysis | No relationship between moon phase and events |
| 2004 study in Barcelona | More entries for gastrointestinal bleeding on a full moon, but questioned |
| 2021 survey of 850 people | Shorter sleep periods during a full moon |
Some studies show indirect effects of the Moon. In 2013, Swiss researchers found that a full Moon makes people sleep later.
They also slept less time in a deep state of sleep.
A 2021 study of 850 people also found that sleeping during a full moon is difficult. But these effects still need further study to be confirmed.
Scientists Russell Foster and Till Roenneberg argue that there is no evidence that the full moon changes our behavior.
Thus, the idea that the Moon influences our actions remains a myth.
Sugar and hyperactivity in children
The myth that sugar cause childhood hyperactivity is very common. But, scientific studies show the opposite.
In 1994 and 1995, reviewed research found no link between sugar and hyperactivity.
A 1994 study also found no effects of sugar or aspartame on children's behavior.
THE sugar myth began in 1922, with a study in the 'American Journal of Diseases of Children'. But modern science has refuted this idea several times.
Hyperactivity at parties doesn't come from sugar, but from excitement and fun.
Excessive sugar does not cause hyperactivity, but it is bad for your health, as it can lead to obesity.
Children should consume up to 25 grams of added sugar per day. A can of Coca-Cola has over 39 grams of added sugar.
Common sources of added sugars include desserts, drinks, and snacks.
In the US, labels show how much added sugar there is. But natural sugars, like those in fruits and vegetables, are safe and have no limit.
Children's behavior is influenced by many things, such as genetics and environment.
Genes and nutrition play a role in ADHD. A balanced diet helps keep children healthy.
Finally, moderation is essential. Parents should promote a balanced diet, with little added sugar, for the health of their children.
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Myths that people still believe: Lightning doesn't strike twice in the same place
One of the climate myths most common is the idea that rays They don't fall twice in the same place. This belief is completely wrong.
In Brazil, for example, 77.8 million people fall rays per year.
This makes our country one of the most prone to occurrences of electrical discharges due to its location in the tropical zone.
On average, 50% of the rays negatives hit more than one point on the ground. High places, such as skyscrapers or mountains, are repeatedly targeted by rays.
In Rio de Janeiro, Christ the Redeemer receives at least six atmospheric discharges annually.
These phenomena show that the sentence “lightning doesn't strike twice in the same place” is a mistake.
The truth is that certain areas are more prone due to electrostatic phenomena and geographical features.
The typical intensity of a lightning strike is about 20,000 amps. That's about a thousand times the intensity of an electric shower.
During thunderstorms, the risk of lightning increases significantly, especially during summer and spring.
Many still believe that closed cars are unsafe during storms.
But the truth is that the metal surface of a vehicle scatters the electric discharge.
This makes it one of the safest places.
On the other hand, swimming or showering with an electric shower during storms is extremely dangerous.
Therefore, it is essential to change the perception about lightning.
Understanding that they can, indeed, fall repeatedly in the same place is essential.
This information is essential to prevent accidents and take appropriate measures in risk areas.
The impact of coins falling from great heights
Have you ever heard that tall building coins, like the Empire State Building, can they be fatal?
This is one of the urban myths more persistent.
Many believe that falling objects, such as coins, can cause serious injury or even death if thrown from a great height.
However, the reality is a little different.
The fear of being hit by a coin falling from a building like the Empire State Building is, in fact, unfounded.
The aerodynamics of a coin, combined with its lightness, significantly slows its speed as it falls.
This drastically reduces the potential impact.
Let's take a closer look:
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Aerodynamics | Slow down |
| Coin weight | Lightweight, reduces lethal impact |
| Building height | It doesn't influence as much as thought |
Therefore, even if the falling objects, as tall building coins, may seem dangerous at first glance, they are generally not lethal.
At most, a coin thrown from a great height could cause a minor injury.
This is another example of how urban myths can distort our perception of reality.
Myths People Still Believe: Antibiotics and Colds
THE use of antibiotics to treat colds is a common mistake.
They are good against bacteria, but not against viruses.
Using them incorrectly can cause bacteria to become resistant, making the situation worse. public health.
Colds and flu are caused by viruses.
Therefore, using antibiotics indiscriminately does not help.
This can cause bacteria to become resistant, a big problem for public health.
To treat well, it is important to follow the doctor's instructions.
Don't stop taking antibiotics even if you feel better. Storing these medications properly is also crucial to avoiding serious problems.
Antibiotics have no connection to dental problems, as old substances have been replaced.
Some antibiotics can affect the birth control pill.
For example, Rifampin may decrease the effectiveness of the pill. Drinking alcohol during treatment may cause side effects with some medications.
| Aspect | Facts |
|---|---|
| Antibiotics | Effective against bacteria |
| Colds | Caused by viruses, not treated with antibiotics |
| Public health | Incorrect use leads to bacterial resistance |
Understanding the difference between viruses and bacteria is crucial.
This helps keep antibiotics effective and protects the public health. Always talk to a doctor before taking any medication.
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The memory of goldfish
It is common to hear that the fish memory, especially that of goldfish, lasts only a few seconds.
This is a short memory myth that has existed for years.
But science has shown that this is not true.
Studies show that goldfish have memory that can last weeks, months and even years.
They are used in studies to show how learning is possible in fish.
They can associate colors or locations with obtaining food, showing impressive learning abilities.
The intelligence of goldfish goes beyond simply remembering.
They can solve problems, escape from nets and even navigate mazes.
They keep this information for a long time.
Research also shows that these fish recognize and remember individuals even after long periods of separation.
Despite all this evidence, many people still believe that fish memory is short.
You goldfish can live up to 20 years, especially if they are well cared for.
They need objects to enrich their environment and interaction with other fish.
So it's clear that the idea that fish have short memories is a short memory myth.
Science shows that the learning in fish it's real and fascinating.
This shows the complexity and cognitive capacity of these small aquatic beings.
Myths People Still Believe: Seeing the Great Wall of China from Space
One of the myths of spatial vision most common is that you can see the Great Wall of China from space.
Its impressive length of over 21,000 kilometers is not enough for it to be seen without help.
This is due to its width and material composition.
Built over centuries, from the 7th century BC to the 17th century AD, the Great Wall of China it's amazing.
It is made of stone, brick, compacted earth and other materials. Since 1987, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Although many think the wall is seen from space, astronauts like Chris Hadfield have shown that this is not true.
To see the wall from space, special lighting conditions and advanced technology are required.
In the construction of the Great Wall of China, it is estimated that 500,000 to 1 million soldiers worked.
It travels through mountains and deserts, showing the complexity of its construction.
Today, the wall is very popular, with millions of tourists visiting every year.
On October 1, 2014, it received 8 million visitors in one day.
“The construction of the Great Wall of China is an impressive testament to human persistence and ingenuity.” – UNESCO
Although it is not seen from space without help, the wall is an important symbol.
She is one of the world wonders for its history and culture.
Dolphins are the most intelligent animals after humans
There is a great debate about the dolphin intelligence and its animal skills.
They are known for their dolphin language complex and problem-solving skills.
However, studies indicate that they are not at the top of the list of animal intelligence, right after humans.
Tests of Animal IQ show that other animals, such as dogs and orangutans, are also very intelligent.
Dogs can understand and follow complex commands, while orangutans are very good at using tools.
THE dolphin intelligence can be compared to other animals in different situations.
There are also ethical concerns about keeping dolphins in captivity for study or therapy.
Dolphin-assisted therapy is common in some places. About two-thirds of these facilities are in the United States, the Caribbean, Turkey, Egypt, Indonesia and China.
A basic package costs around US$1,400 and includes daily one-hour sessions with the dolphins for four or five days.
But, there is no scientific evidence that this therapy works.
Dolphins in captivity can be aggressive.
There are cases of bites and attacks on trainers and participants. This shows the importance of treating these animals with more ethics and respect.
Myths People Still Believe: The Dark Side of the Moon
THE dark side of the moon has always intrigued enthusiasts of lunar astronomy.
There is no side of the Moon that is permanently shadowed. This myth arises from the rotation captured of the star, making the same face always visible from Earth.
The Chinese lunar mission Chang'e 6 was the first to explore the dark side of the moon.
It collected about 2 kg of material from the Aitken Basin at the South Pole. This area is one of the largest craters in the Solar System.
This side of the Moon has an older, thicker crust.
It has more craters and fewer dark basalt plains. This makes the lunar phenomena are different from what we commonly see.
THE lunar astronomy made great progress with the missions in China.
They are the only ones to explore the far side of the Moon. The Chang'e lunar program plans to have a lasting presence on the Moon by 2030.
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Mission | Chang'e 6 |
| Amount of samples | 2 kg |
| Collection location | South Pole Aitken Basin |
| Characteristics of the hidden side | Abundant craters, thick crust, fewer dark basalt plains |
| Recognition | First dark side exploration mission by any country |
| Future Plan | Moon base by 2030, subsequent missions by 2028 |
Despite the challenges, China plans more missions in 2026 and 2028.
THE Chang'e 6 showed the importance of an orbital module for future missions. This is crucial to reach the lunar south pole, where there may be water.
Understand the dark side of the moon is essential for the lunar astronomy. This drives new research and opens innovative paths for humanity.
Conclusion
We explore several myths that still exist, showing that they are false with scientific data.
For example, the idea that we only use 10% of our brain is wrong. In fact, we use our entire brain throughout the day.
It is essential to clarify these misunderstandings.
We also talk about the myth that the moon always shows the same side.
In fact, the moon always receives sunlight as it revolves around the Earth. This clarification helps you think critically.
We also uncovered other fallacies, such as the one that sugar makes children hyperactive.
We also show that a coin cannot be fatally dropped from a tall building.
This information shows the importance of questioning what we know.
It is crucial to spread true, evidence-based information.
This helps combat misinformation and makes society more informed.
Keep questioning and learning; knowledge is powerful to demystify and improve the world.
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