The cockroach

One gross, yucky pest gives up its secret!

An extermination trick that married insecticide with sugar worked for a while -- but then suddenly lost its power against roaches. Now science tells us why, as it highlights once again how human actions affect natural selection. More »

Ancient water = ancient habitat?

Pools of water in a Canadian mine are 1+ billion years old!

Geologic dating shows that water has been trapped more than 2 kilometers underground since before the Cambrian explosion. This water contains chemicals that support bacteria in other places. Could the deep biosphere contain relics of the most primitive life? Could such life exist on Mars? More »

Science Teachers: Hip yourself to a great resource!

Teaching the science standards? Looking for extra-credit projects?

Science Teachers: Hip yourself to a great resource!

Teaching the science standards? Looking for extra-credit projects?

For 15 years, we've presented the science behind the news. The Why Files are accurate, engaging, entertaining and educational. Check our links from national science teaching standards to specific Why Files -- all 750 of them! Whether it's geology or archaeology, weather or human behavior, The Why Files has it covered. More »