Surprising Origins of Falafel and Other Fascinating Facts

1. Did you know who invented falafel?
Even though falafel is known as a popular Israeli food, it actually started in Egypt. It was probably created between the 3rd and 7th centuries CE, especially for times when Egyptians avoided eating meat during festivals. The original version used fava beans, but in Israel, it was changed to use chickpeas and became the famous falafel-in-a-pita we know today.

2. Did you know how fog forms?
Fog is a lot like a cloud, but instead of floating high up, it forms close to the ground. It happens when water vapor turns into tiny water droplets in cool, damp air. These droplets bend light, which is why fog makes it hard to see clearly.

3. Did you know some fish can fly?
Yes, fish from the Exocoetidae family can leap out of the water and glide through the air for up to 30 feet! Their large fins act like wings, helping them escape predators by soaring above the waves.

4. Did you know what the biggest flying machine ever built was?
It’s not a jet, it’s the Hindenburg, a huge airship built in the past. It was about 245 meters long, the size of three modern airplanes. Even though it was enormous, it only held 70 passengers inside.

5. Did you know how fluorescent lights work?
Inside these bulbs is a special layer called phosphor. When the bulb is turned on, it gives off ultraviolet rays that hit the phosphor, which then gives off the light we see.

6. Did you know why trees are so important to us?
While people and animals breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide, trees do the opposite! They take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen, helping keep the air clean and balanced for us all.

7. Did you know which bird has the most colorful beak?
The toucan has the brightest and most colorful beak around. Even though it looks big and heavy, it’s actually very light. This amazing design has even inspired scientists who are trying to build strong but lightweight airplanes.