SMARTYQ: Why don’t we remember falling asleep?

A recent episode of Who Smarted tackles a variety of intriguing questions from young listeners, providing educational insights into topics ranging from sleep to the mechanics of car engines. One question explores why people often do not remember the moment they fall asleep. The explanation reveals that the transition from wakefulness to sleep is gradual, causing a lack of clear memory formation during that time.

Another segment dives into the unique music of the Nintendo game Splatoon, detailing how composers and sound designers create its distinctive sound using a mix of real instruments and electronic tools. The episode also covers the historical supercontinent Pangaea, explaining its formation and eventual breakup due to the movement of tectonic plates.

Listeners learn about the brick-making process, which starts with clay and involves shaping and baking to create durable materials. Additionally, the episode addresses common misconceptions about cats' color vision, clarifying that while they are not colorblind, their perception differs from humans. Finally, the workings of a car engine are explained, detailing how fuel and air create tiny explosions that power the vehicle.

Bonus Smarting! Trusty answers questions sent in by SmartyPants! Email your SmartyQs to - [email protected]