検索キーワード： 解剖学・生理学

Marine mammals known as cetaceans are broken into two large groups: toothed whales (including dolphins and porpoises) and baleen whales. One group has a single blowhole to breathe air, the other has two. One group has tall dorsal fins to help maintain balance as they chase prey. The other scoops up water and prey in their large mouths as they swim slowly along—they don’t need large dorsal fins. One group uses echolocation, the other doesn’t. Learn more about what these animals have in common and how they are different in this latest installment of the Compare and Contrast Series.

Kelly's grandmother is a doctor who has a scary-looking skeleton named Skully in her office. One day, Skully comes to life and explains to Kelly all the important things a skeleton does. Suddenly, Skully isn't so scary anymore.

If you've ever blown a snot rocket, had a cold, or picked your nose, you know that your nose is capable of amazing things.

What causes itches, and how does scratching stop it? This Q & A explains what tells your brain you have an itch and how long to scratch.

How do brain impulses translate into a state of mind? This Q & A explores the science of the brain and gives an insight into feelings and abilities.

To understand what it means to be color-blind, you must first understand how most of us see color.

In this engrossing Q & A, you'll learn why some people have red hair. It's related to what type of genes you have.

Why and how do tears form? In response to a reader question, a psychologist explains that feeling overwhelmed is a major cause of emotional tears, which appear to be unique to humans.

The Director of the Sinus Center at Johns Hopkins University explains why our noses start to run in cold weather.

Humans are such experts at laughing that we can distinguish a fake laugh from a real one. But why do we laugh?

Different organs inside the human body take turns arguing why they are the best organ of all.

Each food has its own special flavor. Why is it so easy for you to tell so many foods apart?

The brain is your body's control center. It collects signals from your senses, thinks and decides, and sends signals that tell your body what to do. Each part of the brain has a special job, and they all work together as you think.

Have you ever wondered how your body grows? Learn about how your cells and DNA help your bones and body grow into a healthy adult. See how our bodies grow the way that they do and how they know when to stop!

Have you ever wondered how your senses work? Learn about the interesting ways your senses allow you to perceive the world around you by doing the fun tests with some friends! Learn about how your sense of smell and taste are affected by completing these fun activities!

The nose helps your body do more than just sniff and smell yummy foods! Without your nose, your favorite foods won't taste as good, your lungs won't have the warm air needed to stay healthy, and germs from outside your body will have an easier route in! Did you know your body makes mucus to wash away germs that find their way in your body? Discover how fabulous your nose really is!

Did you know your eyelids close and open 10 to 20 times a minute! Your eyes have parts that work together. The pupil lets light into your eyes. The iris controls how much light gets in. The cornea, a bowl-shaped layer, covers and protects your eyeballs. Discover how hairs on your eyelashes protect your eyes from germs and dirt, and other ways your eyes help you see and keep you safe!

Do you know how your ears can hear? Did you know they’re responsible for other things, too? For one thing, they keep you balanced on your feet! Learn about the anatomy of your ear and how its structure allows you to hear all the different noises you experience every day.

Tiny creatures called microbes live in, and on your body that can be helpful. But some are bad like bacteria and viruses–in fact, they can make you sick! Your body needs medicine called antibiotics to fight and kill these germs so you can feel better. You must get a different medicine called a vaccine to keep from catching a virus.

Have you ever been sick with strep throat? It's an illness caused by bacteria that gives you a painful sore throat! Learn how doctors can diagnose it by your symptoms and a test, and how medicine can cure strep throat so you can get better. Be sure to take all of the medicine until its gone if you have strep. You might even impress your doctor on your next visit with your new knowledge!