CRYSTALS

WHY DO CRYSTALS FORM IN SUCH BEAUTIFUL SHAPES?

Pure crystals always form in regular shapes of particular kinds. Salt forms tiny cubes, and many crystalline minerals consist of beautiful formations of smaller identical crystals.

Crystals take these shapes because the tiny atom inside them are lined up in particular patterns of rows. When the crystal forms, its atoms link together at certain angles. The crystal enlarges as more and more atoms link to those in the crystal at the same angles. In this way the whole crystal grows in a specific shape.

HICCUPS

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU HICCUP?

Hiccups or hiccoughs are caused by sudden movements of your diaphragm, which is a large muscle beneath your chest. The diaphragm controls breathing, and the movement causes a sudden intake of air. This is a hiccup.

Hiccups can start for many reasons, but they usually soon go away. Sometimes the attack can last for a long time and it can be exhausting. In very rare cases it can last for years.

DIABETES

WHY ARE SOME PEOPLE DIABETIC?

Diabetics are people who suffer from diabetes. The main kind of diabetes affects the pancreas, which is a gland that produces a hormone called insulin. This hormone controls the amount of sugar in the blood, which provides energy for the body. In diabetes, insufficient insulin is produced and the sugar levels are uncontrolled, resulting in illness.

Diabetes usually cannot be cured. But by taking insulin and following strict rules for diet and exercise, the effects can be prevented. In the future, doctors hope that a method of automatic sugar control will be developed so that diabetics need no longer be concerned with their condition. This method could involve bio-sensors to monitor blood sugar levels and release insulin when it is needed.