The Mercalli scale is the lesser known of the two scales to measure earthquakes -- it measures the effects of an earthquake and is distinct from the Richter scale which measures the energy released.

With a polar diameter that is 90% of its equatorial diameter, Saturn is the flattest of all the planets. This is because of the its low density and fast rotation speed.

The human body contains enough carbon to produce graphite for about 9,000 pencils.

Though farmers had known for centuries that crossbreeding of animals and plants could favor certain desirable traits, Gregor Mendel's pea plant experiments conducted between 1856 and 1863 established many of the rules of heredity, now referred to as the laws of Mendelian inheritance.

Even after 250 years of professionals documenting thousands of new plants and animals every year, the rate at which new species are discovered remains relatively stable. Approximately 18,000 new species are discovered each year, with about half of those being insects.

The new moon is the phase that is least visible to us here on Earth because the moon is between the earth and the sun, and its illuminated side is facing away from us.

The pancreas produces several other hormones as well, including glucagon, pancreatic polypeptide, and somatostatin, but is probably best known for its insulin-producing capabilities.

In addition to removing waste products, the kidneys help regulate electrolytes, maintain the body's acid-base balance, and help regulate blood pressure by helping the body have the correct salt balance.

Their joint essay was the runner-up in the 1968 Gravity Research Foundation competition. Hawking said he and Penrose split the $300 prize.

Kepler's laws of planetary motion are three scientific laws describing the motion of planets around the Sun.