Have you ever taken a can of soda, shook it up, and given it to your friend?

What happens?

Well, it’s probably not pretty. And you may not have a friend for a day or two until they forgive you.

But making soda explode is fun. And there is a way to make it really go boom if you have a few pennies and a bit of time on your hands.

Note – be sure to only try this experiment with a responsible adult!

It really only takes a few minutes to setup the mentos and coke volcano experiment. And it’s a great way to learn about chemical reactions.

It’s also a lot less work than your classic paper mache volcano. So, if you want some quick and easy fun, get some paper towels because we’re about to make a sweet mess.

What Will I Need For The Mentos And Coke Volcano?

There really aren’t that many supplies you need to make a mentos and coke volcano.

But here’s the list:

An outdoor area with no ceiling or roof

One roll of Mentos candies

A two-liter bottle of diet soda (diet soda makes for a much better reaction, but you can use regular soda if you like. It just won’t be nearly as awesome.)

A tube the width of the Mentos. It needs to be wide enough to use as loader for the Mentos

An index card (picture below)

The Mentos And Coke Volcano Experiment

Now it’s time to actually run the experiment, but first, we need to make a hypothesis.

The Hypothesis

The scientific method is an important way scientists make observations and come to conclusions.

Part of the scientific method is making a prediction called a hypothesis.

Write down what you think will happen when placing the Mentos in the soda bottles.

Do a little bit of research about the ingredients of Mentos and soda.

This will help you make an informed guess as to what will happen.

Now You Test The Hypothesis

In an experiment, you have two groups: an experimental group, and a control group.

Open the soda bottle, set it down and write down what you observe about it.

This will count as your control group. It’s what happens when you put nothing in the soda.

Now take the Mentos in your tube loader.

Put the index card on top of the tube loader and turn the tube upside down.

The candy should not fall out.

Be ready. The reaction happens fast, so don’t have your face over the bottle.

Place the index card and candies over the mouth of the bottle. Make sure the candies are in line with the mouth of the bottle.

You want the candies going in the bottle and not falling over the side.

Now remove the index card and let candies fall in and step away from the Mentos and coke volcano.

Conclusion

Write down what happened when you dropped the Mentos in the coke.

Did what you hypothesize happen? Compare your notes on the experiment to the control group.

Let us know what you observed in your science experiment!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION

Michael Jackson was an American songwriter, singer, and dancer. He was considered to be the most popular entertainer in the world in the early and mid-1980s. He was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana. 

The youngest of five brothers, Michael Jackson, was raised by his father, Joseph, to become a member of the Jackson 5, a brilliant group of young celebrities. Other members of this band were Jackie Jackson, Tito Jackson, Jermaine Jackson, and Marlon Jackson.

He is acknowledged as one of the most influential cultural leaders of the 20th century and known as the “King of Pop.” His contributions to dance, fashion, music, and personal life throughout a four-decade career elevated him to a universally recognized figure in popular culture. Through his stage and video appearances, he popularised complicated dance techniques like the robot and moonwalk. 

Here are 12 interesting facts about this music legend!

1. Michael Jackson was only six years old when he began his music career.

At the age of six, Michael made his professional debut in 1964. Jackson made his stage debut with The Jackson 5 (later known as The Jacksons), a well-known performing group throughout the 1970s. The Jackson 5 gave performances in clubs and talent competitions before signing a deal with Steeltown Records in 1967 and issuing two singles. They parted ways with their initial record label in 1968 and joined Motown. With the singles “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” and “I’ll Be There,” they became the first group to debut at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 list four times in a row. They also managed to land sixteen Top-40 singles. After spending successful years performing with his brothers, Michael launched a solo career in 1971 and left the band in 1984.

2. Michael Jackson is the 8th child in his family.

Michael was raised in a big family. Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, Brandon, and Randy were his six brothers, and he also had three sisters, Rebbie, La Toya, and Janet. In a family of 12, Michael was the eighth sibling out of ten. He was raised in a typical two-bedroom home, sharing most of his possessions with his siblings to get by. The Jackson children all went on to get employed in the entertainment industry due to their parents’ influence.

Also Read: Walt Disney Facts For Kids

3. Michael Jackson had a shaky start in his solo career.

In addition to being a member of The Jackson 5, he began a solo career in 1971. He released many solo albums while performing with the band. During that time, he recorded four solo studio albums: Got to Be There (1972), Ben (1972), Music & Me (1973), and Forever, Michael (1975). His solo career stalled; however, he had a few successful songs. Michael left the family band when he met music producer Quincy Jones in 1978. He released the album Off the Wall in 1979 and got four top 10 tracks, including the number one singles “Rock with You” and “Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough,” which were significant hits.

4. Michael Jackson has a humanitarian award for his philanthropic work.

 During his lifetime, Michael Jackson was a kind and giving philanthropist. He backed efforts on these issues at the height of the debate about HIV and AIDS. Michael Jackson also founded the Heal The World Foundation in 1992. The foundation was established to aid underprivileged children. In addition to these kind deeds, Michael Jackson supported charitable endeavors. These causes provided relief for war victims.

Additionally, he conducted tours in nations with high AIDS prevalence. This served to raise awareness of the disease and aid individuals afflicted. Africa was one of these countries. On May 14, 1984, President Ronald Reagan presented Jackson with the Presidential Humanitarian Award in recognition of his assistance to organizations that fight drug and alcohol abuse and initiatives to prevent drunk driving. Jackson also received an honor from President George H. W. Bush on May 1, 1992, recognizing him as “a point of light ambassador.”

5. Michael Jackson was a big Spiderman fan and tried to buy Marvel Comics!

Michael Jackson’s nephew Taj Jackson stated that his uncle tried to purchase Marvel back in the 1990s in an interview with a news website. He mentioned that he and Stan Lee discussed Michael Jackson’s eagerness to buy Marvel. Marvel’s bankruptcy filing announcement gave the celebrity the inspiration for the purchase. Being a major Marvel fan, Michael Jackson claimed he had meant to play the part of Spiderman. He wanted to buy Marvel to recreate Spiderman in his vision. But regrettably, that never happened.

6. Michael Jackson holds the record for most ever received Grammys by an artist in a single night.

Michael Jackson set a record for the most Grammys won in a single evening when he won 8 Grammys in 1984. ‘Thriller’ won Album Of The Year, and ‘Beat It’ won Record of the Year, among the eight. Throughout his career, Jackson won a total of 13 Grammys. He isn’t known as the King of Pop for no reason!

7. Michael Jackson was considered the greatest entertainer of all time.

Michael Jackson’s career was so revolutionary and prosperous that he was given many Guinness World Records, including the title of Most Successful Entertainer of All Time! In November 2006, Michael personally went to their headquarters to pick up his awards and express his gratitude for their recognition. He also took the time to thank the employees in person.

Some of the Guinness World Records Jackson holds are:

• The Youngest Vocalist to Top the U.S. Singles Chart
• First Vocalist to Enter The U.S. Single Chart at No. 1
• First Entertainer to Sell More Than 100 Million Albums Outside the US
• Most Weeks at the Top of the US Album Charts (Non-Soundtrack)
• Most Successful Music Video
• First Entertainer to Earn More Than $100 Million in a Year
• Highest Paid Entertainer of All Time.

8. Michael Jackson was married to Elvis Presley’s Daughter, Lisa Presley.

There were shock waves when the King of Pop married the King of Rock, Elvis Presley’s Daughter, Lisa Presley, in 1994. The media kept their wedding a secret as the couple didn’t want any distractions and the paparazzi around them during this occasion. The couple filed for divorce after 20 months of marriage in 1996. 

9. Michael Jackson wore a wig.

Jackson’s hair caught fire in 1984 while shooting for a Pepsi commercial. The singer sustained second and third-degree burns due to the incident, which is thought to be why he began to don a wig. His managers said that he had been concealing the bald spot with the wig for years. Pepsi gave him compensation of $1.5 million to cover the losses.  This was also disclosed in a recent 2019 documentary.

10. The infamous Michael Jackson “leaning move” was made possible with the help of a unique patent shoe. 

One of the dancing techniques for which Michael Jackson will be best remembered today is the gravity-defying lean, which he did in his 1987 hit Smooth Criminal. Many have pondered for years how Michael managed the 45-degree tilt without assistance from anything on stage other than his own body. The King of Pop, Michael Jackson, filed a patent for a unique shoe that gives the appearance of being weightless. While filming the music video for his single “Smooth Criminal” in 1987, Michael came up with a dancing move where he leaned forward 45 degrees to appear to be defying gravity. Of course, the audience was unaware that wires were being used to create the illusion. The dancing routine gained rapid notoriety. The heel of the shoe had a slot. A peg that could be raised and lowered through the stage when needed would fit into the space. Michael could lean forward into the linked ankle straps once his heel made contact with the peg.

11. Michael Jackson fans live on even after his death, and he is considered the most collectible celebrity worldwide. 

More than ten years after the King of Pop’s passing, some admirers are still committed to gathering mementos and trinkets relating to him.

Private auctions sometimes sell items owned by or connected to Michael, raising thousands of dollars. The official clothes he donned in his music videos and performances are among these things. This features the white gloves he frequently used with various other ensembles in addition to his well-known red suit from the Thriller music video. 

12. Michael Jackson wrote an autobiography named Moonwalk.

Jackson’s autobiography, Moonwalk, which included contributions from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and Stephen Davis, was published in 1988. It hit the top of the New York Times bestsellers list after selling 200,000 copies. Jackson talked about his upbringing, The Jackson 5, and his father’s abuses. Five months after Michael Jackson released his album “Bad,” Doubleday launched the book on February 1 of that year. Moonwalk topped the New York Times Best Seller list five months after its first release. It then re-entered the chart in October 2009, after Michael’s passing.

Also Read: Mae Jemison Facts

Conclusion 

Michael’s brilliance, charisma, and allure made him leave his mark on musical history. He became known as the “King Of Pop” thanks to his contributions to the entertainment business. He continues to rank among the most significant entertainers in the development of pop music and is remembered by many even today.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Kamala Harris is a well-known American politician and lawyer who created history by becoming the first female vice president of the United States as well as the first African American and South Asian American woman.

Kamala Harris served as California’s attorney general from 2011 to 2017 and as the state senator from California from 2017 to 2021 before being unexpectedly elected vice president in 2020.

Known for her progressive stance on issues such as criminal justice reform, healthcare, and immigration, Harris has become a leading voice in American politics and an inspiration to many.

Who is Kamala Harris?

Kamala Harris, a well-known American politician, and attorney, currently holds the position of Vice President of the United States.

She was born in Oakland, California, in 1964, and graduated from Howard University with a bachelor’s degree before attending the University of California Hastings College of the Law to earn a law degree.

Before moving on to become the district attorney in San Francisco and the attorney general of California, Harris began her career in public service as a deputy district attorney in Alameda County, California. In 2016, she was elected to represent California in the United States Senate, where she served until her historic election as Vice President in 2020.

Throughout her career, Harris has been a vocal advocate for criminal justice reform, healthcare, immigration, and other issues, breaking barriers for women and people of color in politics.

Fun facts about Kamala Harris

1. Childhood and Family: 

Born in Oakland, California, Kamala Harris was raised by her mother, a cancer researcher, and civil rights activist, after her parents divorced when she was young.

Her mother is Indian, and her father is Jamaican. Harris has one younger sister, Maya Harris, who is also a lawyer and political analyst.

Kamala Harris was also an avid reader from a young age, and her mother would take her and her sister to the library every week to check out books.

2. Name Pronunciation:

Kamala Harris’s first name is pronounced “COM-ma-la,” which means “lotus flower” in Sanskrit.

Harris’s name is often mispronounced as “ka-MA-la,” and she has joked that her name is often mistaken for “the comma-la” or “the kamikaze.”

3. Sorority Life: 

During her time at Howard University, which is a historically black college and university (HBCU) located in Washington, D.C., Kamala Harris became a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority. This sorority is particularly notable as it was the first African American sorority to be founded in the United States.

As a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Harris joined a sisterhood of women who are dedicated to service and scholarship, and she remains involved with the sorority to this day.

4. Second Lady: 

As the first South Asian, African American, and female vice president of the United States, Kamala Harris enjoys a special distinction.

Also, her spouse, Doug Emhoff, is the First and Second Gentleman of the United States, creating history as well. In addition to her role as Vice President, Harris is also the President of the Senate, which means she has the power to cast tie-breaking votes in the Senate.

5. Presidential Run:

In 2020, Kamala Harris ran for the Democratic nomination for President of the United States, making her the third woman and the first woman of color to do so.

Although Harris ultimately dropped out of the race, she made history by running a groundbreaking campaign that focused on issues such as criminal justice reform and healthcare.

6. Avid Cook: 

Kamala Harris is an avid cook and is known for her love of Indian cuisine. She has shared recipes for dishes such as masala dosa and chana masala with her followers on social media.

Harris’s cooking skills were put to the test when she appeared on an episode of the cooking competition show “MasterChef Junior” in 2018.

7. Pop Culture References: 

Kamala Harris has been referenced in pop culture numerous times, from being name-dropped in songs by artists such as Beyoncé and Tupac Shakur to appearing in a Saturday Night Live sketch with Maya Rudolph playing her.

Harris’s appearance on SNL was widely praised, and she even tweeted a response to the sketch, saying “That girl is played by @MayaRudolph on @nbcsnl? That girl was me.”

8. Tennis Fan: 

Kamala Harris is a big fan of tennis and has attended the US Open multiple times. She even got to hit balls with Serena Williams during a charity event in 2019.

Harris has also played tennis herself and has said that she enjoys the sport because it requires focus and discipline.

9. Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Advocate: 

Kamala Harris is a strong advocate for HBCUs and has worked to increase funding and support for these institutions.

Her alma mater, Howard University, awarded her an honorary doctorate in 2017. In addition to her work on behalf of HBCUs, Harris has also introduced legislation to provide relief for students who attended for-profit colleges that engaged in fraudulent practices.

10. Climate Change Activist: 

Kamala Harris is a strong supporter of action to address climate change, and she co-sponsored the Green New Deal resolution introduced by Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Harris has called climate change “an existential threat” and has pledged to take bold action to combat it, including investing in renewable energy and creating green jobs.

11. Early Interest in Politics: 

Kamala Harris’s interest in politics began at a young age, and she was inspired by her mother’s activism and her own experiences with racial inequality.

As a child, she even organized a protest against a policy at her elementary school that she felt was unfair.

12. Multilingual Skills: 

Kamala Harris is fluent in both English and Tamil, which is one of the official languages of India and the language spoken by her maternal grandparents.

Harris has credited her mother with teaching her Tamil and has used her language skills to connect with Indian Americans on the campaign trail.

13. Love for Dancing: 

Kamala Harris loves to dance and is a fan of Bollywood movies. She has even shown off her moves on the campaign trail, dancing to “Back That Thang Up” at an event in Atlanta in 2019.

Harris’s dance moves have gone viral on social media, and she even inspired a dance challenge called the “Chucks and Pearls Challenge” after she wore Converse sneakers and a pearl necklace to the presidential inauguration.

14. Supporter of LGBTQ+ Rights: 

Kamala Harris has been a strong supporter of LGBTQ+ rights throughout her career, and she officiated one of the first same-sex marriages in California when she was Attorney General.

In addition to officiating same-sex marriages, Harris has also fought for the rights of transgender individuals, co-sponsoring legislation to allow transgender individuals to serve in the military.

15. Workout Enthusiast: 

Kamala Harris is known for her love of exercise and has said that she likes to start her day with a workout.

Harris has said that exercise helps her stay focused and clear-headed, and she has shared her workout routine with the public, including doing planks, lifting weights, and practicing yoga.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kamala Harris is a trailblazer and history-maker who has broken numerous barriers throughout her career.

From her early activism to her work as a prosecutor, senator, and now Vice President of the United States, she has dedicated her life to fighting for justice and equality for all.

Her diverse background, multilingual skills, and love for dancing and cooking make her a relatable and inspiring figure to many. As the first woman, a person of color, and of South Asian descent to hold the position of Vice President, Harris’s impact will be felt for generations to come.

On July 20, 1969, as the commander of the Apollo 11 mission, American astronaut and aeronautical engineer Neil Armstrong became the first person to set foot on the moon.

Born in Wapakoneta, Ohio in 1930, Armstrong developed a fascination with flying at an early age and went on to earn a degree in aeronautical engineering from Purdue University. Before enrolling in the NASA astronaut program in 1962, he started his career as a test pilot.

Armstrong continued to work for NASA despite his historic moon landing and later accepted a position as a professor of aerospace engineering at the University of Cincinnati.

Tragically, he passed away in 2012 at the age of 82. Armstrong is remembered as a pioneer in space exploration and a hero to many around the world.

Who is Neil Armstrong?

American astronaut and aeronautical engineer Neil Armstrong rose to renown around the world as the first person to set foot on the moon.

Born in Ohio in 1930, Armstrong developed a keen interest in flying at a young age and pursued a degree in aeronautical engineering from Purdue University. He was a Navy pilot who then transitioned into the test pilot profession before enrolling in NASA’s astronaut program in 1962.

As the first person to set foot on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission, Armstrong made history by uttering the famous phrase “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” He maintained a job as a professor of aerospace engineering at the University of Cincinnati in addition to his services at NASA.

Armstrong passed away in 2012, but his legacy as a pioneering astronaut and symbol of human achievement continue to inspire people around the world.

Fun facts about Neil Armstrong

1. A Young Aviation Enthusiast: 

Neil Armstrong developed a fascination for flying at a young age. He took his first flight at the age of six, and by the time he was 14 years old—even before he had a driver’s license—he had earned his pilot’s license.

2. A Distinguished Military Career: 

Armstrong served in the United States Navy during the Korean War. In recognition of his service, he received three Air Medals and flew 78 combat missions.

3. Test Pilot Extraordinaire: 

Before becoming an astronaut, Armstrong worked as a test pilot for NASA’s predecessor agency, the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), and flew over 900 different aircraft models.

4. Scouting Spirit: 

Armstrong was a Boy Scouts of America member who achieved the highest rank possible, Eagle Scout.

5. The First Bachelor on the Moon: 

Armstrong was the first astronaut to get married after walking on the moon.

He married his second wife, Carol Held Knight, in 1999, over 30 years after his historic moon landing.

6. The First Person to Shake the President’s Hand in Space: 

During his Gemini 8 mission in 1966, Armstrong became the first person to shake hands with a U.S. president while in space. President Lyndon B. Johnson called Armstrong and co-pilot David Scott to congratulate them on their successful mission.

7. A Man of Many Talents: 

In addition to his skills as a pilot and astronaut, Armstrong was also an accomplished musician.

He played the baritone horn in his high school band and later learned to play the piano.

8. The Inspiration for a Comic Book: 

Armstrong’s historic moon landing inspired a comic book called “Neil Armstrong: The First Man on the Moon,” which was published in 1969.

9. The Smithsonian’s “Lunar Sample Return Bag”: 

Armstrong used a “Lunar Sample Return Bag” during the Apollo 11 mission to collect and store moon rocks.

The bag was later mistakenly labeled as a “junk” bag and nearly thrown away before being rediscovered and sold at an auction in 2017.

10. A Fan of the Wright Brothers: 

Armstrong was a lifelong admirer of the Wright Brothers and carried a piece of their airplane with him to the moon.

11. A Private Man: 

Despite his fame, Armstrong was a private person and shunned the public spotlight. He rarely gave interviews and preferred to stay out of the public eye.

12. A Man of Few Words: 

Armstrong was famously quiet and reserved. He is remembered for his concise communication style, which was crucial during the high-pressure moments of his historic moon landing.

13. A Modest Hero: 

Armstrong was known for his humility and often deflected praise for his achievements.

He once said, “I am, and ever will be, a white-socks, pocket-protector, nerdy engineer, born under the second law of thermodynamics, steeped in the steam tables, in love with free-body diagrams, transformed by Laplace, and propelled by compressible flow.”

14. A Champion for Education: 

Armstrong joined the University of Cincinnati as an aerospace engineering professor after leaving NASA.

He also served on the board of trustees for the Children’s Hospital of Cincinnati and worked to promote science education for young people.

15. The Recipient of Many Honors: 

Over his life, Armstrong was given a great deal of recognition, including the Langley Gold Medal from the Smithsonian Institution, the Congressional Space Medal of Honor, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

At the Kennedy Space Center, NASA renamed the iconic Operations and Checkout Building in 2019 in Armstrong’s honor.

Conclusion

Neil Armstrong’s legacy as a pioneering astronaut, skilled pilot, and humble hero continues to inspire people around the world.

His historic moon landing in 1969 was a defining moment in human history, and his legacy as the first person to set foot on the moon will always be remembered.

Beyond his achievements in space, Armstrong’s dedication to education and service to his community also made a lasting impact. He was a man of many talents and interests but always remained true to his roots as an Ohio-born aviation enthusiast.

Future generations will always look at Neil Armstrong as an example of human achievement and as an inspiration.

Joe Biden became the President of the United States on January 20, 2021, after serving as the vice president under Obama’s administration from 2009 to 2017 and representing Delaware in the U.S. Senate for 36 years before his presidency.

Throughout his career, Biden has been known for his work on foreign policy, his advocacy for middle-class families, and his commitment to social justice issues.

He has also had personal traumas, such as losing his son Beau to brain disease and his first wife and daughter in a vehicle accident.

Biden ran for president in 1988 and again in 2008 before finally winning the Democratic nomination in 2020 and defeating incumbent President Donald Trump in the general election.

Who is Joe Biden?

Joe Biden is a politician from the United States who has been involved in politics for more than 40 years. Born in 1942 in Scranton, Pennsylvania, he went on to study law at Syracuse University.

After serving on the New Castle County Council, Biden was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1972, representing the state of Delaware. During his time in the Senate, Biden became known for his expertise in foreign policy and his advocacy for issues such as gun control, the environment, and civil rights.

He served as Barack Obama’s Vice President from 2009 to 2017 before being elected as the 46th President of the United States in 2020. Throughout his career, Biden has been committed to promoting unity, empathy, and the values of the American people.

Fun facts about Joe Biden

1. The Ice Cream Connoisseur:

Joe Biden’s love for ice cream is well-known, and he’s even been known to order it for breakfast!

Biden has been spotted at numerous ice cream shops across the country, and he’s even joked that if he could have any job in the world, he’d be an ice cream taste tester.

2. First Dog in the White House: 

Biden’s dog, the Major, has become a bit of a celebrity in his own right, and he even has his own Twitter account.

Major has been known to make appearances at White House events, and he’s quickly become a beloved member of the First Family.

3. The Robinette Legacy: 

Biden’s middle name is Robinette, which he received in honor of his mother’s maiden name.

Biden has spoken fondly of his mother and has credited her with instilling in him a sense of empathy and kindness.

4. The Train Enthusiast: 

Biden has been a fan of trains since he was a child, and he’s been known to ride them whenever he can.

He’s even been spotted riding Amtrak in recent years, and he’s said that he finds train travel to be a calming and reflective experience.

5. The Poet Politician: 

Biden is a skilled poet who has released numerous poetry books over the years. His poetry often reflects on themes of family, loss, and the American experience.

6. The Sports Fanatic: 

Biden is a big sports fan and has been known to root for a variety of teams over the years.

He’s been spotted at numerous sporting events, from baseball games to golf tournaments, and he’s even thrown out the first pitch at a few games.

7. The Prankster: 

Biden has a reputation for being a bit of a prankster, and he’s been known to pull off some pretty elaborate practical jokes.

From hiding behind doors to pretending to fall asleep during meetings, Biden likes to keep those around him on their toes.

8. The Aviator: 

Biden’s signature style includes a pair of aviator sunglasses, which he’s been known to wear both indoors and outdoors.

He’s said that he wears them to protect his eyes from bright lights and to give himself a bit of privacy.

9. The Family Man: 

Biden has been married to his wife, Dr. Jill Biden, for over 40 years, and the two are known for their strong bond.

Biden has often credited his family with keeping him grounded throughout his career, and he’s said that his children and grandchildren are the most important things in his life.

10. The Movie Buff: 

Biden is a big fan of classic movies, and he’s been known to quote lines from his favorite films during speeches and interviews.

According to him, movies can encourage us to be our best selves by taking us to various times and locations.

11. The Cufflink Collector: 

Biden has an extensive collection of cufflinks, which he’s been known to give as gifts to friends and colleagues.

Many of his cufflinks have special significance, such as a pair that belonged to his late son Beau.

12. The Christmas Enthusiast: 

Biden loves Christmas, and he’s been known to decorate his home with an impressive collection of holiday lights and decorations.

He’s said that he loves the sense of joy and togetherness that the holiday season brings, and he’s even been known to dress up as Santa Claus from time to time.

13. The Boss Fan: 

Biden is a big fan of Bruce Springsteen, and he’s been known to attend his concerts whenever he can.

He’s said that Springsteen’s music speaks to the struggles and triumphs of the working class and that it has the power to bring people together.

14. The Charismatic Orator: 

Biden is an accomplished public speaker and is known for his ability to connect with audiences on a personal level.

He’s delivered many memorable speeches, including his speech at the 2004 Democratic National Convention and his inaugural address as President in 2021.

His ability to connect with people through his words has been a major factor in his success as a politician.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Joe Biden is a seasoned American politician who has dedicated his life to public service. From his early days as a county council member in Delaware to his time as Vice President under Barack Obama, Biden has been committed to fighting for the issues that matter most to the American people.

As the 46th President of the United States, Biden has already taken steps to address some of the most pressing challenges facing the country, from the COVID-19 pandemic to economic inequality to racial justice.

With his decades of experience and his commitment to empathy and unity, Biden is poised to lead the country through a period of change and renewal and to work towards a brighter future for all Americans.

One of the most popularly grown tree fruits is the apple, or Malus Domestica, the fruit of the tree Malus Domestica, belonging to the family Rosaceae. The ovary and surrounding tissue are fleshy and safe to eat because they are pome (juicy) fruit. Apples vary in size, shape, and acidity depending on the variety; they are often roundish in form when harvested, measuring around 5-10 cm in diameter and varying shades of red, green, or yellow.

Apples are rich in carbs, contain vitamins A and C, and are a prime source of dietary fiber. Apples can be consumed raw or cooked in many different ways, and they are widely used as a filling for pastries; apple pie is perhaps the most iconic American delicacy. Fried apples are often served with pork or sausages, particularly in European countries. 

Let’s take a closer look at some facts about apples. 

Also Read: 21 Interesting Facts About Oranges

Here are 12 interesting facts about apples!

Half of the world’s deciduous fruit tree is made up of apples!

Deciduous fruit trees make up most of the two categories of fruit trees, the second being evergreens. Trees classified as deciduous bear flowers in the spring and summer and shed all their leaves in the autumn. These trees are barren in the winter because they need cold temperatures to bear fruit and blossoms. Apple trees make up over half of all deciduous fruit trees utilized for fruit production. China, the United States, Poland, Italy, and Turkey are the nations that produce the majority of these trees.

Apples were discovered 750,000 years ago!

Kazakhstan, a country in central Asia east of the Caspian Sea, is where apples were first discovered. Alma Ata, Kazakhstan’s capital, translates to “full of apples.” Apple seeds were transported across Europe by 1500 BC. The credit for bringing apple seeds and trees to the British Isles in the first decades of the Christian era belongs to the latter. Early Paleolithic hunters and gatherers in (modern-day) Kazakhstan, Central Asia, discovered crab apples growing wild in the forest some 750,000 years ago. These apples were incredibly sour. Additionally, Neolithic farmers in (present-day) Asia cultivated wild apples about 8,000 years ago.

There are over 7,500 varieties of apples.

One of the most well-known fruits in the world, the apple, is believed to have originated in Central Asia. The colonists later transported the tree to North America after it spread over Asia and Europe. There are 7,500 different varieties of apples on the globe, but you won’t find this many of them in your local supermarket. Together, the UK and USA grow 5000 distinct apple kinds. Some of the most popular varieties found all over the world include Granny Smith apples, Fuji apples, Golden Delicious, and Gala apples. 

Apples can only be grown in areas with distinct winter periods.

Since the apple needs a long time of dormancy, it grows best between latitudes of 30° and 60°, both north and south, where there is a distinct winter season. A short growing season and cold winters in the north hinder apple cultivation. Apple trees require well-drained soils; fertilizers may be utilized if the yield is insufficient. Farmers prefer growing apples on hilltops due to the cooler climate in those areas. Additionally, farmers prefer growing apples in hilly areas because the cold air that could potentially harm the apples drains into the valleys below them. This saves the apple crops from being overexposed to cold air. 

Apples have a lot of health benefits!

Apples are categorized as fruits that are high in nutrients and offer a lot of nutrients per serving. The following nutrients are included in one medium apple: 

• 28 grams of carbs
• 5 grams of fiber
• 10% of the daily value for vitamin C (DV)
• 6% of the DV is copper.
• 5% of the DV for potassium
• 4% of the DV for vitamin K

Vitamins E, B1, and B6 are also present in the same meal at 2-5% of the DV each. Vitamin B1 is required for growth and development, vitamin B6 is crucial for protein metabolism, and vitamin E functions as a fat-soluble antioxidant.  Apples contain a lot of fiber as well. They have soluble and insoluble fibers called pectin, which comprise a fiber intake component. There are around 4 grams of this nutrient in a single medium-sized apple (100 grams), which is 17% of the Daily Value (DV).

Apples contain malic acid.

Apples and pears naturally contain a chemical called malic acid. Malic acid is in large quantities in apple juice, apple flesh, and apple cider vinegar. It belongs to the group of natural acids known as alpha-hydroxy acids, frequently found in skin care products. It is also offered as a dietary supplement and is advertised as having several advantages. Apple is one of the best sources of malic acid. Apples include malic acid, which can keep your skin supple and hydrated while enhancing your health. This good substance treats gallstones, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue syndrome.

The heaviest apple weighed around 2kgs!

The biggest apple was planted and harvested on October 24, 2005, at Chisato Iwasaki’s orchard in Hirosaki City, Japan, weighing 1.849 kg (4 lb 1 oz). The size and variety of the apple also affect its weight. An apple typically weighs between 150 to 250 grams. A more prominent apple weighs roughly 6 ounces (169 grams), whereas a smaller apple weighs about 4.5 ounces (129 grams).

Apple is also known as the forbidden fruit.

Apples are frequently depicted as a mystical or forbidden fruit in various religious traditions. Since the name “apple” was used as a general term for all (foreign) fruit other than berries as late as the 17th century, recognizing apples in religion, mythology, and folklore can be challenging. Christian tradition says that Adam and Eve consumed an apple from the forbidden tree in the Garden of Eden, even though the Bible does not mention the fruit by name. Because of the legend surrounding the golden apples in the Garden of Hesperides in greek mythology, the unidentified fruit of the Garden of Eden eventually took on the name apple. The apple consequently came to represent knowledge, immortality, temptation, the fall of man, and sin. Because of the myth that the bulge was brought on by the forbidden fruit sticking in Adam’s throat, the larynx in the human throat has been given the nickname “Adam’s apple.”

Steve Jobs named his company Apple after visiting an apple farm.

Jobs says in his biography by Walter Isaacson that he came up with the name “during one of his fruitarian diets.” Jobs would only eat fruits because he thought doing so would keep his body odor at bay. He chose the name Apple for his business partly because, in the late 1970s, he lived in an apple orchard and believed the name sounded “fun, energetic, and not intimidating.”

Steve Jobs claimed in a 1980 video that the business, which was established on April 1, 1976, was named “Apple Computers” to appear in phone books before his former employer Atari. According to Jobs, the name personifies “simplicity” and “sophistication.” 

Also Read: Computer Facts For Kids

We know the term gravity because of apples.

According to legend, Isaac Newton developed the theory of gravitation around 1665 or 1666 after observing an apple fall and questioning why it fell straight down rather than sideways or upward. In an instant, he realizes that the same force—gravity—that sent the apple crashing to the ground also keeps the moon and Earth moving in the same direction—toward the sun. The apple tree that inspired Newton to develop his theory of gravitation is still standing in Woolsthorpe Manor’s orchard. About 400 years ago, the tree started to take root. It has been presented to guests as Isaac Newton’s apple tree for at least 240 years.

Apple trees take years to bear fruit.

A full-sized apple tree can attain maximum production in as little as four or ten years, depending on the planting methods applied. Apple trees mature exceptionally slowly, but other elements affecting their growth include sunlight exposure and the type of fertilizer used. A tree will grow more quickly if given enough sunlight, water, and nutritious food, than one that isn’t. During the growing season, apple trees require at least 8 hours of daylight daily. For successful pollination, two types are needed; can be a crab apple or a miniature apple. After planting, miniature apple trees will begin to produce fruit two to three years later. Ordinary trees might take up to 8 years to grow.

Over 60 million metric tonnes of apples are typically grown worldwide each year.

Averaging over 60 million metric tonnes annually, China produces most of the world’s apple supply. More than half of the crop is typically consumed as fresh fruit. A fifth is consumed for apple butter, juice, jelly, and vinegar. A sixth is canned as applesauce and pie stock. Cider, wine, and brandy production account for a more significant portion of the harvest in Europe. One-fourth of the global production is used for cider. China, the USA, India, Turkey, and Poland were the top apple producers as of 2017.

Conclusion 

It’s simple to understand why apples are one of the most widely consumed fruits worldwide. They are tasty, convenient, and nutrient-dense. Apples are present throughout human history and are an essential part of our culture, while also being a fruit that is fibrous and good for our health.

Flowers are one of the symbols of beauty, and they are used for decorations to improve their aesthetic value during special occasions like festivals, weddings, housewarming ceremonies, etc. they emanate fragrance which gives us a pleasant feel. It represents a variety of emotions and feelings, like compassion, love, friendship, divinity, etc.

If you pay attention and study flowers, you will be astonished at how beautiful and intelligent nature is! The study of flowers, their cultivation, and their applications are called floriculture.

Also Read: Plant Life Cycle For Kids

12 Fascinating  facts about the parts of a flower

Stigma plays an active role in checking compatibility.

Stigma is the uppermost part of the pistil, and its function is to receive or capture pollen. It is sticky and contains hair-like structures that help capture pollen carried by wind or insects. Stigma hydrates pollen grains which are dry when they leave another. Now, the hydrated pollen grain forms a pollen tube that penetrates through stigma and style towards the ovary. Stigma plays an active role in checking compatibility, wherein the pollen gets rejected when identified as different species.

Ovaries may be unilocular, bilocular, trilocular, or multilocular 

The ovary is the part of the pistil that houses the ovule. It is at the point of connection with the base of petals and sepals. It has compartments called locules; each locule contains one or more ovules. Ovaries may be unilocular, bilocular, trilocular, or multilocular depending on the number of locules.

The ovule, also called megasporangium, contains a female gamete called megaspore in the center. Megaspore develops from a megaspore mother cell. A series of different types of cell division transforms the mother cell into a megaspore. Ovules attach to the inner wall of the ovary at places called placentae (singular: placenta).

After pollination, pollen grains germinate and protrude as pollen tubes into the pistil from stigma, through style, and reach the ovary, which releases microspores. Megaspores in the ovule fuse with microspores, and the process are called fertilization. After fertilization, the ovule develops into seeds, and the ovary transforms into fruit.

Sepals provide support to the petals when flowers bloom.

Sepals are green-colored, leaf-shaped structures that form the exterior part and protect the interior organs of a flower in the bud stage. They provide support to the petals when flowers bloom. In most fully matured flowers, sepals are smaller in size than petals.

In some plants, sepals wither from the flower after they bloom. In contrast, sepals in some species grow until they form a bladder-like envelope around the fruit to protect it from being eaten by birds and animals. 

The anther is the structure in which Male gametes form.

The anther is the structure in which male gametes form. It contains two pollen sacs, which are also called microsporangia (singular: microsporangium). Each pollen sac has two chambers called locules which enclose male gametes called microspores. Microspores form by multiple cycles of cell division of cells called microspore mother cells. One of the significant differences between microspores and their mother cells is the number of chromosomes.

Petals are the most significant parts of flowers.

Petals are the most significant and most prominent parts of flowers. They are often brightly colored, and their size and shape vary widely across species. Scent and color are the two attributes of petals that contribute to pollination. The scent attracts pollinators, such as insects, including moths, bees, and flies. Colors create contrast with the background and attract not only insects but also birds and animals.

Petals have two parts: a broad upper part called the blade and a narrow lower part called the claw. Claw, in most plants, is whitish, unlike the blade, which is brightly colored. The claw and blade are at an angle to each other.

The life span of plants 

Some plants bloom with short photoperiods, and they are called short-day plants. Examples of long-day plants are spinach and Rose-of-Sharon. Some plants do not flower until age; for example, a sugar maple tree may not flower until 30.

Also read: Photosynthesis Facts

Flowers look simple but have complex structures. 

Flowers look simple but have complex structures seen when dissected and observed closely. Parts of a flower are classified into vegetative and reproductive functions. 

• Reproductive parts: the structures in the flower that interact with each other to form seeds are called reproductive parts. The pistil and stamen are the reproductive parts.
• Vegetative parts: are structures or organs that do not directly participate in reproduction.. However, they are crucial for the events that make reproduction possible.

Pedicel carries the weight of the flower.

The pedicel is the stalk or stem of a flower that supports the growth, carries the weight of the flower, and allows it to stay in the air. When flowers are present in clusters, the pedicel attaches to a stalk called a peduncle.

The pistil is the female reproductive part and forms the central part of a flower.

The pistil is the female reproductive part and forms the central part of a flower. There may be one or more pistils, which are collectively called gynoecium. Pistils are bowling-pin-shaped structures and comprise three forms: stigma, style, and ovary.

Stamen is the male reproductive part of a flower.

Stamen is the male reproductive part of a flower. Filament and anther are two parts of Stamen. Stamens are collectively called androecium, and the number varies across species from a half-stamen to a few thousand. In most species, stamens surround the female reproductive part of the flower, and perianth surrounds stamens.

Lilly, cherry blossom, and the flower of apples are perfect flowers.

A flower that has either stamen or pistil is called an imperfect flower. It is a unisexual flower because it has only one of the two reproductive parts. Lilly, cherry blossom, and flower of apples are some examples of perfect flowers.

Flowers of cucumber, walnut, and begonia are some imperfect flowers.

A flower that possesses both stamen and pistil is called a perfect flower. It is a bisexual flower because it has all two reproductive parts. Flowers of cucumber, walnut, and begonia are some imperfect flowers.

Also Read: 6 Parts of Plants for Kids

Conclusion 

The structure of flowers varies significantly across the plant species and goes through several elaborate processes from their initiation to transformation into a fruit. Undoubtedly, they are one of the wonders nature has produced.
Want to know more interesting facts about other topics? Continue reading Cool Kid Facts!

Do you remember the famous line that Neil Armstrong spoke when he landed on the moon and achieved the great feat? His words ‘that’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind’ struck the minds and hearts of everyone. His line showed a sharp contrast between the two words. Can you identify them? 

The words small and giant have opposite meanings. This phrase used a figure of speech called antithesis. Antithesis means the direct opposite. It is a contrary opinion or a concept. The statement can include characteristics that are contrasting. Using antithesis can highlight and drive home an important point. 

Antithesis is found everywhere but it is used widely in films and literature. Using this makes the audience understand the point of the other person with more clarity.

What is Antithesis?

Antithesis is a rhetorical device that brings out the contrast in the statement. It contains two ideas in the phrase that are complete opposites of each other. They are used to strengthen an argument and make it easier for the listener or reader to remember. 

Antithesis is also used to make the reader feel a certain way. They persuade the other person to elicit a particular emotion that the writer wants to show.

The dictionary defines antithesis as the placing of a sentence or one of its parts against another to which it is opposed to form a balanced contrast of ideas. It means the direct opposite or contrasting ideas in the same sentence.

Antithesis examples:

Everyday examples-

Antithesis can be used in everyday speech as well. Many phrases spoken use this device. 

• Go home or go big- this is a phrase heard more in games.
• No pain, no gain.
• Speech is silver but silence is golden- this one would have been used by every teacher out there! 

Examples from famous speeches- 

• “And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.” – this was quoted by John.F.Kennedy during his inaugural speech as the 35th President of the USA.

• “We must all learn to live together as brothers – or we will all perish together as fools.” Martin Luther King Jr quoted this to highlight the contrast between two versions of the future.

Proverbs featuring antithesis- 

• Beggars can’t be choosers.
• One man’s junk is another man’s treasure.
• Hope for the best and prepare for the best.

How to write with Antithesis?

Antithesis is best used to add contrast. Concepts such as emotions and opposing elements of a setting use this. The concepts don’t need to be complete opposites but they should be distinct. Antithesis creates a lyrical quality so one should keep in mind the rhythm and wording to be similar. Overuse should be avoided since the impact will sound duller and make writing seem forced.

Why do writers use Antithesis?

• Writers use antithesis to create a contrast and present a choice between two different things.
• Placing opposites together gives more clarity and attention to its characteristics.
• It allows the expression of strong emotions and conveys range.
• It also allows the text to be more memorable for the reader or listener. 

Read this article to get more information on Literary Syntax.

Difference between Antithesis and Juxtaposition:

Antithesis often gets confused with other literary terms. Juxtaposition is one such literary device that is mistaken in place of antithesis. Juxtaposition places two things next to each other for an interesting effect. This is done to bring attention to their similarities or differences. The juxtaposition does not always compare or contrast, unlike antithesis. Antithesis could be a juxtaposition but vice versa cannot be told as the same.

Difference between Antithesis and Oxymoron:

Oxymoron is another literary device that gets confused with antithesis. Oxymoron is a combination of contradicting words placed next to each other. For example, living dead, making haste slowly, the only choice, etc. 

The idea of an oxymoron focuses on contradiction while antithesis is more based on opposites. Antithesis doesn’t function with only a few words and is not placed next to each other. Pretty easy to identify them!

You can get more information about Anaphora in this article.

Difference between Antithesis and Foil:

A foil is a literary character that highlights attributes and reveals information in another character through opposing traits. It is used to draw attention to the other person’s qualities. This can get confused with antithesis. While the character can have opposing qualities, it does not mean it is a bad character. This is a foil character. If the main character is a hero, then antithesis will mean being the villain and foil will mean being a sidekick of the hero.

Antithesis and Parallelism:

Parallelism is a literary device in which parts of a sentence are the same. They can be grammatically the same or at least similar in construction. This makes it a great persuasion tool as people find it a pattern and rhythm more memorable. 

The easiest example to understand this device would be Martin Luther King Jr’s speech- 

“I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. I have a dream today…”. 

Although anyone would not be able to remember the whole speech, the part that uses parallelism sticks to the mind. This shows the power parallelism holds in making a bigger impact.

Antithesis uses parallelism in many cases. It can involve parallel elements of the sentence which can be verbs, nouns, adjectives, etc. An example that has both antithesis and parallelism in it is from the book The Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens- 

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times; it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness;

Origins of Antithesis:

Antithesis originates from the Greek word Antitithenai which means set against. It comes from two words ‘anti’ meaning ‘against’ and ‘tithenai’ meaning ‘to place’. The earliest usage of this as a literary device is known from the 16th century.

Antithesis in Literature: 

Antithesis is a favorable device that a lot of authors use. Some of Shakespeare’s best works use this.

• Othello by Shakespeare- 

“This is the night

That either makes me or fordoes me quite.”

The antithesis in this is quite clear as the antagonist uses it to differentiate between the two potential outcomes.

• Julius Caesar by Shakespeare- 

There is a subtle use of antithesis here. The author uses it to show the contrast between the characters Markus Brutus and Marc Anthony. The former being a noble, honorable man and the latter being evil but honorable.

Antithesis in poetry:

• Paradise Lost by John Milton-

“Better to reign in Hell, than serve in Heav’n.”

There is the use of double antithesis here. One between heaven and hell and the other one between ruling and serving. The poet justifies that it is better to rule even in hell than be a servant, even if it is heaven.

• Fire and Ice by Robert Frost-

             Some say the world will end in fire,

           Some say in ice.

           From what I’ve tasted of desire

           I hold with those who favor fire.

           But if it had to perish twice,

          I think I know enough of hate

          To say that for destruction ice

          Is also great

         And would suffice.

      Antithesis is used to contrast fire and ice as opposing yet destructive forces. The fire represents desire while the ice represents hate. There is the literal and figurative meaning used by the poet.

Antithesis in popular culture:

• In the song ‘My Girl by the Temptations’ (1965)

I’ve got sunshine on a cloudy day

When it’s cold outside I’ve got the month of May.

The singer uses antithesis to express joy in contrasting conditions.

• In the movie ‘Beauty and the Beast’ by Disney-

The movie uses antithesis on its characters. While Belle is the epitome of beauty, the beast is a stark contrast by being ugly. Yet, they find their way to each other which makes it a heartfelt union.

The Sun Bear is the smallest bear species in the world. Sun Bears are found in the tropical forests of Asia. In particular, they are found in Southeast Asian forests. 

The taxonomic name of a sun bear is Helarctos Malayanus.

Sun bears are found in eastern India, Southern China, and Indonesia. They live in tropical forests. 

These bears are small as compared to other bears. They have smaller bodies. Sun Bears have large paws and strong claws. Their claws are curved and sharp. Usually, these bears have jet black fur. Sometimes, the color varies from grey to red too. 

Their fur is soft and silky. Since they live in tropical climates, it is not very dense. They have fine fur so they don’t trap heat. Their paw pads are hairless. They have the shortest hair of all bear species. Yet, the fur is coarse enough to protect the bear’s skin.

Sun bears have the shortest snout of any bear. The total length of a sun bear is around 100-140 centimeters (39-55 inches). From its height or length, we see that it is the smallest bear species in the animal kingdom. Adults weigh anywhere between  25–65 kilograms (55–143 pounds).

The coat of a sun bear is almost entirely black. They have a ‘U”-shaped patch on their chest. This patch is yellowish. It might be either white or completely absent in some cases. 

The sun bears earn their name from this little patch. When a sun bear stands up, this patch gives the appearance of a rising sun on its chest. 

Their tongue is unusually long. The tongue of a sun bear can be around 10 inches long! That’s around 25 centimeters. Their tongues are the longest of any bear species. There are many adorable photographs of sun bears sticking their tongues out. Take a look!

This patch makes the bear appear more dangerous. It is used as a display of threat or aggression. When the bear stands up on its hind feet, this patch appears big and threatening. It helps the bear ward off predators. It can also keep away rivals.

Also Read: Black Bear Facts

Where Do Sun Bears Live?

Sun Bears are the most “arboreal” bear species. This means that they spend a lot of time in treetops. We know what you’re thinking – “Are Sun Bears that agile?” The answer is simple. The bear is an excellent tree-climber. A Sun Bear spends its days 2-7 meters above the ground in the trees. They are also very good swimmers.

Their hairless paws help them in climbing trees. They build “bear beds” in treetops. For this bed, they use fallen logs and leaves. These beds are high up in the trees to keep the bears safe. They can also hunt for insects in the branches around their beds.

The lifespan of a sun bear is dependent on its surroundings. In the wild, a sun bear can live up to 25 years. In captivity, it can be a little more. Most sun bears in captivity live for up to 31 years. 

Sun bears are considered very intelligent animals. One particular bear opened a cupboard with sugar in it by watching humans do the same with a key. They can also mimic or copy some human facial expressions. 

Unlike other bears, the sun bear does not hibernate. It has food sources all year long. Sun Bears do not need to save their energy resources. Hence, they do not need to hibernate.
What is Hibernation?
A lot of mammals hibernate. This means that they do not do any activity. This is to conserve their energy. Their body temperature drops. Their breathing slows. Their heart rates drop too. 

What do Sun Bears eat?

Sun Bears are omnivores. They eat insects like bees, earthworms, termites, and more. They also eat fruit. To grab insects from trees, sun bears have long tongues. Their long tongues help them get honey from beehives as well. Sometimes, sun bears will eat leftover carrion from tigers or other big predators. The Sun bear also catches lizards and other small creatures. 

Sun bears have sharp claws. They use their claws to rip apart the beehive. With their long tongues, they luck up all the delicious honey in the hive. Wondering how they don’t get stung? The sun bear’s fur protects it against bee stings!

The Sun bear has a very sensitive nose. This nose helps a bear to locate food sources easily. They can also smell food sources at night!

Reproduction in Sun Bears

Sun bears live in isolation. It is rare to see even two sun bears together. The rare times that sun bears are seen together are during the mating season. But, because their habitats are tropical, there is no particular season for mating. 

The female sun bear can reproduce throughout the year. However, she will usually only have one cub a year. There are cases of female bears having two cubs in a year. But, that is a rare instance. 

The gestation period for female sun bears is anywhere between 3 to 9 months. That is less than the period for humans. 

Sun bear cubs are raised only by their mothers. A mother sun bear will protect her cub from all harm. She is very protective of her cub. 

Usually, sun bears are not that aggressive. However, if a cub is in danger, its mother will fight ferociously to protect it. 

The mother bear puts her cub first. She has to look for food for both of them. If there is less food, the mother will give the food to her cub first. She will not eat till her cub has had its fill. She puts the well-being of her offspring before her own. 

When a cub is growing, the mother will scavenge for extra food in the day. A growing cub needs more nutrition. Thus, the mother has to hunt or scavenge more. However, she will not go too far away from their den, even while searching for food. 

The bear beds are usually built at a height. Cold temperatures on ground can be fatal to newborn cubs. To maintain temperature and safety, the mother bear will build a den a little above ground. In other cases, she might build a den with lots of insulation. 

Baby cubs become independent between one and two years of age. Once a bear is independent, it will not have too much contact with its mother. The independent bear will now fend for itself. The mother will not help it in gathering food or hunting. From that point, the bear will have no interaction with other bears till it is ready to mate. 

The mother bear makes sure that her cub learns everything about adult life. She will teach it to hunt and gather food. The mother bear will make sure that the cub observes her. She will teach it to observe her and learn. The bear must observe its mother and learn how to take care of itself. 

The mother bear will also teach the cub to climb trees. When it is old enough, the bear must climb trees on its own. The bear will have to look for food and build its bed in the trees. 

Sun Bear’s Importance to the Ecosystem

The sun bears love fruits. Because of this food habit, it is a very good disperser of seeds. These seeds help in pollinating, and growing into new plants. The sun bear thus maintains the ecosystem around its habitat. 

The Sun Bear is a ‘keystone species’. The number of sun bears in an environment affects it greatly. In order to maintain the flora of an environment, we must protect the sun bear and other pollinators like them. 

Sun Bear – An Endangered Species

The Sun Bears are largely found in Indoneisa and Malaysia. In these countries, the sun bear population is under threat. There is large-scale deforestation in these countries. Deforestation means a rapid cutting-down of trees. 

When we cut down trees, the sun bears lose their habitat. Trees and green tropical forests are necessary for the bears. Without them, the bears don’t have resources and food supplies to survive.

Another important reason for the endangered status of the sun bear is the bear bile trade. Bear bile is known for its healing properties. It is used to treat haemorrhoids, epilepsy, fevers, inflammation, and more. For this reason, they are farmed and their bile is extracted. However, this farming is carried out in terrible conditions. 

The bears are caught from the wild. They are not bred in captivity. This reduces the number of sun bears still out in the wild, living in their natural habitats. In total, their numbers are reduced drastically. 

Saving the sun bear requires an effort to save their habitat. It also depends on an effort to stop the use of bear bile. There can be synthetic alternatives to bear bile. It needs to be accepted as the norm in order to protect the sun bear. 

Their endangered status will not get better unless their habitats are saved. Forests need to be conserved so that the sun bears can live peacefully. Their population needs to be conserved. They are an important species to the environment around them. 

Animals protect themselves from predators in different ways. One method is camouflaging – where they look or act like something else, to hide in plain sight. Chameleons are masters of camouflage, and can change their colors according to their surroundings to blend in!

But did you know there’s an entire group of insects who camouflage themselves to look like sticks and branches of trees? They’re called Stick Bugs! Stick Bugs are known by many different names like stick insects, walking sticks, bug sticks, stick animals, or ghost insects. 

As they belong to the order Phasmida, they’re also called phasmids. There are over 3000 different species of Stick Bugs! Let’s learn more about them.

What do Stick Bugs look like?

True to their name, Stick Bugs resemble twigs or branches of a tree. They’re usually brown, green or black. They have a thin, cylindrical shape with long and slender legs. However, some species are brightly colored, and even have wings!

How big do Stick Bugs get?

Stick Bugs are the world’s longest insects. Most species are about 12 inches long. The longest Stick Bugs are of the species Phobaeticus chani. Also called Chan’s Megastick, they can stretch to a whopping 22 inches! There are smaller species too, which grow to just 0.5 inches.

What do they eat?

Stick bugs are herbivores! They feed mainly on tree leaves and shrubs using their strong mandibles. They’re also nocturnal. This means they spend most of the day motionless and hidden among the plants, and munch on leaves during nighttime.

Where do Stick Bugs live?

Stick Bugs are found on every continent except Antarctica! Most species live in Southeast Asia and South America, Australia, Central America, and the southern United States. The Asian island of Borneo alone has more than 300 species of Phasmids!

Stick Bugs Habitat

Stick Bugs are found throughout the world in warmer climates, mostly in tropical and subtropical areas. Some species also live in temperate regions. They thrive in forests and grasslands, where they get plenty of covers to hide.

Stick Bugs Lifespan

The average lifespan of Stick Bugs in the wild is 1 to 2 years. Some Stick Bugs species can live up to 3 years, while others have a lifespan of a few months. Their lifecycle consists of three stages: egg, nymph (or baby Stick Bugs), and adult.

Stick Bugs Behavior

Stick Bugs sometimes rock back and forth repetitively, especially while walking. This makes them look like branches of a tree moving with the wind. By doing this, they are also better able to check for food and predators in the background.

Stick Bugs play an important role in the ecosystem due to what they consume. They eat dead leaves and new plants and enrich the soil when they excrete. This also opens up areas for plant growth. Thus they help recycle vegetation.

Mating times of Stick Bugs vary for different species. Some species let the females deposit eggs first, and then the male fertilizes them later. Other species have mating rituals, which can go on for 80 days! Males often also fight each other for the right to mate.

Stick Bugs Defenses

Camouflage

Stick Bugs can hide from predators due to their natural appearance, which makes them look like twigs and branches. This form of camouflage is called plant mimicry. Some Stick Bugs also have wings that look like flat leaves. 

Some Stick Bugs species like Pseudodiacantha macklotti and Bactrododema centaurum allow moss and lichens to grow on their body to improve their disguise. Others, like Bostra scabrinota and Timema californica, can change their colors as the surroundings shift!

Stick Bugs may show a rocking motion to resemble twigs blowing in the wind. But generally, they adopt a rigid and motionless pose to resemble twigs on the ground. They can maintain this pose for very long periods to escape predators.

Regenerating Limbs

Stick Insects can also shed and regenerate their limbs! When attacked by a predator, Stick Bugs may detach a limb. They do this by using a special muscle to break it off at a weak joint. This is called autotomy. This distracts the predator, allowing the Stick Bug to quickly escape. 

Stick Bugs regenerate their limbs when they shed their skins or molt. Baby Stick Bugs can regenerate a limb in a single molting. An adult limb can take 3 moultings to completely grow back! 

Playing Dead

When a Stick Bug is attacked while perched on a tree, it may simply drop down and fall to the ground! There, the insect pretends to be dead by staying extremely still. This behavior is called thanatosis. A predator may be unable to find the immobile insect on the ground, allowing it to escape. 

Some winged species also show a different defense. While falling to the ground, they flash their colorful wings to scare and ward off the predator. These wings close up and disappear when they land.

Odor Deterrents

Some Stick Bugs species have a very unique defense system! They have a special pair of glands in their mouth, which allows them to secrete different chemicals. The effects of these chemicals vary from species to species.

This spray of chemicals by Stick Bugs is often foul-smelling. This bad odor acts as a deterrent to the predator. Other chemicals might even cause a stinging and burning sensation in the eyes and mouths of the predator! 

Some species use other organs to secrete chemicals. Some Stick Bugs bleed reflexively from joints in their legs. This blood contains foul-smelling compounds and creates a bad taste in the predator’s mouth. Some species even vomit out their stomach contents to repel predators!

Reproduction in Stick Insects

Stick Insects reproduce in many different ways. Some species reproduce by mating. Their coupling may continue for a couple of months! In other species, the female flicks her egg to the ground and the male then fertilizes it. In some others, the female can lay fertilized eggs on her own, and bury them in sandpits or hide them in leaves and stems to hatch.

Reproduce Without Males

Many species of Stick Insects are parthenogenic. This means that the female can lay eggs without mating with males to produce offspring. These eggs are entirely female and hatch into nymphs which are exactly like their mothers. One such species is the Laboratory Stick Insect, Carausius morosus.

Stick Insect Eggs

A single female Stick Bug can lay 100 to 1200 eggs after mating. These eggs often look like plant seeds and have hard shells. This protects the eggs from being eaten by carnivorous predators. The eggs can take 13 to 70 days to hatch nymphs.

Some eggs have a fatty capsule at one end, called a capitulum. This capitulum attracts ants which consider it a food source and carries the eggs to their nest. After feeding on the capitulum, they toss away the rest. 

The egg continues to incubate in the ant colony. Once it hatches, the nymph, which also resembles an ant, emerges out of the nest safely. Eggs also have a special coating that makes them indigestible in a bird’s stomach, allowing them to be excreted undamaged.

Predators of Stick Insects

Stick Insects are easy prey for several predators and lie very low in the food chain. On the ground, rodents like rats and mice, reptiles like snakes, small mammals, spiders, and even other insects can catch and eat Stick Insects.

When they’re perched atop a tree, they can become meals for primates and birds. The most dangerous predators are bats. Since bats find their prey by making calls and hearing the sounds reflected off of other things, they make the Stick Insect’s camouflage useless.

Are Stick Bugs good pets?

Stick Bugs have been kept as pets all over the world, since ancient times. This is because Stick Bugs aren’t very dangerous to humans. They generally do not bite or attack. But they should still be handled with caution, as they have sharp spines that can draw blood.

They also don’t cause an infestation if they escape, and have a short lifespan. The most common species used as pets is the Indian Stick Insect, or Carausius morosus. They can be fed leaves like lettuce and ivy. Due to their size, they need a tall and enclosed glass area to be kept as pets.

Are Stick Insects in danger?

Stick Insect Population

Most species of Stick Insects have robust populations and are found all over the world. These species aren’t threatened. However, quite a few are critically endangered, and scientists are trying to increase their numbers.

One such species is Dryococelus australis, or the Lord Howe Island Stick Insect. It was thought to be extinct in 1920, but was rediscovered in 2001 as a small population of 24 insects! They’re one of the rarest insects in the world.

Stick Insect Threats

The biggest threat to Stick Insects is the loss of habitat due to the cutting of forests and pesticide use. The pet trade also threatens them, as they are captured in the wild and not allowed to breed. Some people also frame bodies of Stick Insects, making them vulnerable to this practice.

Stick Bugs Interesting Facts

• Some Stick Bugs can curl their abdomen upwards, to resemble scorpions and ward off predators!
• The chemical spray from one species, Megacrania nigrosulfurea, is used as a treatment for skin infections by a tribe in Papua New Guinea!
• Some tribes of the D’Entrecasteaux Islands make fish hooks from the legs of Stick Bugs!
• Stick Bugs are being studied to engineer six-legged walking robots!
• In ancient China, Stick Bugs were kept as pets as they were believed to bring good luck!
• Stick Insect fossils from 130 million years ago are the oldest example of insects fooling animals with their shape!
• Stick Bugs are related to cockroaches, praying mantises, and even grasshoppers and crickets!