20 Common ‘Facts’ 95% of People Get Wrong

We’ve all heard them before – those “facts” that everyone seems to know, but no one can quite remember where they learned them. From old wives’ tales to urban legends, these misconceptions have a way of sticking around. But how many of these “facts” are actually true? You might be surprised to learn that a lot of what you thought you knew is actually wrong. In this article, we’ll debunk 20 common myths and set the record straight once and for all.

The Great Wall of China Visibility from Space

Contrary to popular belief, the Great Wall of China is not visible from space with the naked eye. Numerous astronauts have debunked this myth, confirming that the wall is too narrow and blends in with its surroundings, making it impossible to see from orbit. Even from a low Earth orbit, the wall is barely visible and certainly not distinguishable as a man-made structure.

Goldfish Memory Span

The idea that goldfish have a memory span of just a few seconds is a myth that has been perpetuated for years. In reality, studies have shown that goldfish can remember things for several months, and they can even be trained to perform tricks and navigate mazes. So, the next time someone tells you that you have a memory like a goldfish, take it as a compliment!

Lightning Never Strikes the Same Place Twice

This is a common saying, but it’s simply not true. Lightning can and does strike the same place more than once, especially if that place is tall, pointy, or located in an area that is prone to thunderstorms. In fact, the Empire State Building in New York City is struck by lightning an average of 23 times per year.

Humans Only Use 10% of Their Brains

This is a persistent myth that has been debunked by numerous studies. In reality, we use all of our brain, although not all at once. Different parts of the brain are responsible for different functions, and we use them as needed. While it’s true that we don’t use all of our brain’s potential all the time, the idea that we only use 10% is a gross oversimplification.

Toilets Flush in Different Directions in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres

This is a common misconception that is based on the Coriolis effect, which is the force that causes objects to appear to curve when they are moving on a rotating surface. However, the Coriolis effect is too weak to have any impact on the direction of toilet water, and the actual direction of the flush is determined by the design of the toilet and the direction of the water jets.

Bats Are Blind

Bats are not blind, although they do have poor eyesight. Instead, they use a sophisticated system of echolocation to navigate and hunt for food. By emitting high-frequency sounds and listening for the echoes, bats can create a detailed “sound map” of their surroundings and locate even the tiniest insects.

Shaving Makes Hair Grow Back Thicker and Darker

This is a myth that has been perpetuated by razor companies for years, but it’s simply not true. Shaving does not affect the thickness or color of hair, and it does not cause hair to grow back faster. When hair is shaved, it creates a blunt tip that can make the hair appear thicker or darker, but this is just an illusion.

Cracking Your Knuckles Causes Arthritis

This is a common belief, but there is no scientific evidence to support it. While cracking your knuckles can cause temporary swelling and discomfort, it does not lead to arthritis or any other long-term damage. The popping sound is actually caused by bubbles of gas that form in the synovial fluid that lubricates the joints.

Eating Before Swimming Causes Cramps

This is a myth that has been around for generations, but there is no scientific evidence to support it. While it’s true that eating a heavy meal before swimming can cause discomfort and indigestion, it does not increase the risk of cramps or drowning. In fact, swimming on an empty stomach can actually be more dangerous, as it can lead to low blood sugar and fatigue.

Chewing Gum Takes Seven Years to Digest

This is a myth that has been around for decades, but it’s simply not true. While it’s true that gum is not easily digestible, it does not stay in your system for seven years. In fact, gum typically passes through your digestive system within a few days, just like any other food. However, swallowing large amounts of gum can cause intestinal blockages, so it’s best to spit it out when you’re done chewing.

Bulls Are Enraged by the Color Red

This is a common misconception that has been perpetuated by bullfighting traditions, but it’s not true. Bulls are actually colorblind to red and green, and they are not enraged by the color of the matador’s cape. Instead, they are attracted to the movement of the cape and the perceived threat of the matador.

Goldfish Grow to Fit Their Tank

This is a myth that has led to many goldfish being kept in small, cramped tanks. In reality, goldfish will continue to grow throughout their lives, and the size of their tank has no impact on their growth. Keeping a goldfish in a small tank can actually stunt their growth and lead to health problems.

Eating at Night Makes You Gain Weight

This is a common belief, but it’s not entirely accurate. While it’s true that late-night snacking can lead to weight gain, it’s not because of the time of day. Instead, it’s because people tend to make poor food choices and eat more calories when they snack late at night. As long as you’re maintaining a balanced diet and not overeating, the time of day you eat has little impact on your weight.

Vitamin C Prevents Colds

This is a persistent myth that has been around for decades, but there is little scientific evidence to support it. While vitamin C is important for overall health and can help boost your immune system, it does not prevent colds. In fact, studies have shown that taking vitamin C supplements does not reduce the risk of getting a cold, although it may slightly reduce the duration of symptoms.

Drinking Coffee Stunts Your Growth

This is a myth that has been around for generations, but there is no scientific evidence to support it. While it’s true that caffeine can have negative effects on children and adolescents, including disrupted sleep and increased anxiety, it does not stunt growth. In fact, most studies have found no link between caffeine consumption and height.

Eating Chocolate Causes Acne

This is a common belief, but it’s not entirely true. While some studies have suggested a link between chocolate consumption and acne, the evidence is not conclusive. In fact, more recent research has suggested that the link may be due to other factors, such as the sugar and dairy content of chocolate, rather than the chocolate itself.

Humans Swallow Eight Spiders a Year While Sleeping

This is a myth that has been circulating on the internet for years, but it’s simply not true. While it’s possible for a spider to crawl into your mouth while you’re sleeping, it’s highly unlikely. Spiders are generally not attracted to humans and will avoid contact whenever possible. Plus, the sensation of a spider crawling into your mouth would likely wake you up before you could swallow it.

Putting Butter on a Burn Helps It Heal

This is a common home remedy that has been passed down for generations, but it’s not a good idea. While butter may provide temporary relief from the pain of a burn, it can actually make the burn worse by trapping heat and increasing the risk of infection. Instead, run cool water over the burn for several minutes and then cover it with a sterile bandage.

Eating Before Bed Gives You Nightmares

This is a myth that has been around for years, but there is no scientific evidence to support it. While it’s true that certain foods and drinks can affect your sleep quality, there is no direct link between eating before bed and having nightmares. In fact, going to bed hungry can actually disrupt your sleep and lead to more vivid dreams.

Popping a Blister Helps It Heal Faster

This is a common misconception that can actually make blisters worse. While it may be tempting to pop a blister to relieve the pressure, doing so can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection. Instead, leave the blister alone and cover it with a bandage to protect it from further irritation. If the blister is large or painful, you can drain it with a sterile needle, but be sure to leave the skin intact to prevent infection.

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