Question 1: How many pairs of eyes does the Greek mythological monster Argus Panoptes possess?
Question 2: If an object falls freely (ignoring air resistance), how fast does its velocity increase due to Earth's gravity?
Earth's gravity causes a constant acceleration of about 9.8 meters per second squared for any object in free-fall, which means its velocity increases by 9.8 meters per second each second. This is known as the acceleration due to gravity.
Question 3: Where is the natural habitat of the marsupial called the quokka?
Quokkas are marsupials native to Rottnest Island, off the coast of Perth, Western Australia. These small, friendly animals have been nicknamed "the world's happiest animal" due to their seemingly constant smile.
Question 4: In Australian folklore, what is the mythical creature known for terrorizing humans and sneaking up on them in the bush?
Originating from Aboriginal folklore, the Bunyip is a mythical creature said to inhabit swamps, billabongs, and other waterways. Its appearance varies depending on the stories, often described as having a dog-like face, tusks, and a powerful tail. The Bunyip has played an important role in Aboriginal culture and remains a popular figure in modern Australian folklore.
Question 5: In terms of global wine production, which country is the largest producer?
Italy is the world's largest wine producer, producing approximately 54.8 million hectoliters annually. The country is known for its wide variety of wine regions and styles, including famous wines such as Chianti, Barolo, and Prosecco.
Question 6: In which Australian state are platypuses most commonly found?
Platypuses are most commonly found in Tasmania, as well as along the eastern coast of mainland Australia. They are a unique monotreme, meaning they are a mammal that lays eggs, and one of the few remaining venomous mammals.
Question 7: Why do some plants close their leaves or petals at night?
Nyctinasty is a phenomenon in which plants close their leaves or petals during the night. This can help conserve water, protect them from potential herbivores, or keep the plants warm in cold climates.
Question 8: When was "To Kill a Mockingbird" first published?
"To Kill a Mockingbird" is a novel by Harper Lee. It was published in 1960 and has since become a classic of American literature. The book won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1961, and it was later turned into an Oscar-winning film starring Gregory Peck.
Question 9: Which country is known as the birthplace of pizza?
Pizza originated in Naples, Italy, in the 18th century and has since become one of the most popular food items around the world. The Margherita pizza was named in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy, with its colors representing the Italian flag.
Question 10: Where is the world's largest Oktoberfest celebration held?
Munich's Oktoberfest is the largest and oldest beer festival in the world, dating back to 1810. It attracts around 6 million visitors each year.
Argus Panoptes was a giant in Greek mythology who served as an all-seeing, ever-watchful guardian. He was tasked by Hera to keep watch over the nymph Io, who had been turned into a cow. His 100 eyes enabled him to be always vigilant.