Interesting Science Facts

1. Lightest Solid

Aerographene or graphene aerogel is considered to be the lightest solid material on Earth, with a density of 160g/m³ or in other words, it is approximately 7.5 times less dense than air (however if we consider the air incorporated in the structure as well, then its heavier than air).

It is so light that it can balance on a flower without deforming it (as shown in the above image).

2. Strongest Acid

 

 

The strongest acid is fluoroantimonic acid. It is a mixture of hydrogen fluoride and antimony pentoxide. It is so corrosive that it can eat through glass.

 

3. Most Toxic Substance

 

The main difference between toxin and poison is that toxin is obtained from a living organism while poison may be obtained from living organisms or may be made artificially.

The most toxic substance till date is the botulinum toxin (botox) produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum (which causes botulism).

It is so toxic that only 0.00007 mg of botox is enough to kill a 70kg man. Isn’t that scary?

4. Helium Inhalation

Did you know that inhaling helium makes your voice sound higher? Check out the video to hear what it sounds like.

Why does it happen?

Well, inhaling helium doesn’t actually change the pitch of your voice i.e. your vocal cords vibrate at the same frequency. What actually changes is the quality of the sound.

Helium is less dense than the air we breathe. Sound travels about two times faster in helium than in regular air. Thus, when we breathe helium, our voice travels much faster across the vocal cords which results in the funny voice.

On the other hand, sulphur hexafluoride makes your voice sound lower as it is denser than regular air.