Have you ever taken a can of soda, shook it up, and given it to your friend?

What happens?

Well, it’s probably not pretty. And you may not have a friend for a day or two until they forgive you.

But making soda explode is fun. And there is a way to make it really go boom if you have a few pennies and a bit of time on your hands.

Note – be sure to only try this experiment with a responsible adult!

It really only takes a few minutes to setup the mentos and coke volcano experiment. And it’s a great way to learn about chemical reactions.

It’s also a lot less work than your classic paper mache volcano. So, if you want some quick and easy fun, get some paper towels because we’re about to make a sweet mess.

What Will I Need For The Mentos And Coke Volcano?

There really aren’t that many supplies you need to make a mentos and coke volcano.

But here’s the list:

An outdoor area with no ceiling or roof

One roll of Mentos candies

A two-liter bottle of diet soda (diet soda makes for a much better reaction, but you can use regular soda if you like. It just won’t be nearly as awesome.)

A tube the width of the Mentos. It needs to be wide enough to use as loader for the Mentos

An index card (picture below)

The Mentos And Coke Volcano Experiment

Now it’s time to actually run the experiment, but first, we need to make a hypothesis.

The Hypothesis

The scientific method is an important way scientists make observations and come to conclusions.

Part of the scientific method is making a prediction called a hypothesis.

Write down what you think will happen when placing the Mentos in the soda bottles.

Do a little bit of research about the ingredients of Mentos and soda.

This will help you make an informed guess as to what will happen.

Now You Test The Hypothesis

In an experiment, you have two groups: an experimental group, and a control group.

Open the soda bottle, set it down and write down what you observe about it.

This will count as your control group. It’s what happens when you put nothing in the soda.

Now take the Mentos in your tube loader.

Put the index card on top of the tube loader and turn the tube upside down.

The candy should not fall out.

Be ready. The reaction happens fast, so don’t have your face over the bottle.

Place the index card and candies over the mouth of the bottle. Make sure the candies are in line with the mouth of the bottle.

You want the candies going in the bottle and not falling over the side.

Now remove the index card and let candies fall in and step away from the Mentos and coke volcano.

Conclusion

Write down what happened when you dropped the Mentos in the coke.

Did what you hypothesize happen? Compare your notes on the experiment to the control group.

Let us know what you observed in your science experiment!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION

Michael Jackson was an American songwriter, singer, and dancer. He was considered to be the most popular entertainer in the world in the early and mid-1980s. He was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana. 

The youngest of five brothers, Michael Jackson, was raised by his father, Joseph, to become a member of the Jackson 5, a brilliant group of young celebrities. Other members of this band were Jackie Jackson, Tito Jackson, Jermaine Jackson, and Marlon Jackson.

He is acknowledged as one of the most influential cultural leaders of the 20th century and known as the “King of Pop.” His contributions to dance, fashion, music, and personal life throughout a four-decade career elevated him to a universally recognized figure in popular culture. Through his stage and video appearances, he popularised complicated dance techniques like the robot and moonwalk. 

Here are 12 interesting facts about this music legend!

1. Michael Jackson was only six years old when he began his music career.

At the age of six, Michael made his professional debut in 1964. Jackson made his stage debut with The Jackson 5 (later known as The Jacksons), a well-known performing group throughout the 1970s. The Jackson 5 gave performances in clubs and talent competitions before signing a deal with Steeltown Records in 1967 and issuing two singles. They parted ways with their initial record label in 1968 and joined Motown. With the singles “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” and “I’ll Be There,” they became the first group to debut at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 list four times in a row. They also managed to land sixteen Top-40 singles. After spending successful years performing with his brothers, Michael launched a solo career in 1971 and left the band in 1984.

2. Michael Jackson is the 8th child in his family.

Michael was raised in a big family. Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, Brandon, and Randy were his six brothers, and he also had three sisters, Rebbie, La Toya, and Janet. In a family of 12, Michael was the eighth sibling out of ten. He was raised in a typical two-bedroom home, sharing most of his possessions with his siblings to get by. The Jackson children all went on to get employed in the entertainment industry due to their parents’ influence.

Also Read: Walt Disney Facts For Kids

3. Michael Jackson had a shaky start in his solo career.

In addition to being a member of The Jackson 5, he began a solo career in 1971. He released many solo albums while performing with the band. During that time, he recorded four solo studio albums: Got to Be There (1972), Ben (1972), Music & Me (1973), and Forever, Michael (1975). His solo career stalled; however, he had a few successful songs. Michael left the family band when he met music producer Quincy Jones in 1978. He released the album Off the Wall in 1979 and got four top 10 tracks, including the number one singles “Rock with You” and “Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough,” which were significant hits.

4. Michael Jackson has a humanitarian award for his philanthropic work.

 During his lifetime, Michael Jackson was a kind and giving philanthropist. He backed efforts on these issues at the height of the debate about HIV and AIDS. Michael Jackson also founded the Heal The World Foundation in 1992. The foundation was established to aid underprivileged children. In addition to these kind deeds, Michael Jackson supported charitable endeavors. These causes provided relief for war victims.

Additionally, he conducted tours in nations with high AIDS prevalence. This served to raise awareness of the disease and aid individuals afflicted. Africa was one of these countries. On May 14, 1984, President Ronald Reagan presented Jackson with the Presidential Humanitarian Award in recognition of his assistance to organizations that fight drug and alcohol abuse and initiatives to prevent drunk driving. Jackson also received an honor from President George H. W. Bush on May 1, 1992, recognizing him as “a point of light ambassador.”

5. Michael Jackson was a big Spiderman fan and tried to buy Marvel Comics!

Michael Jackson’s nephew Taj Jackson stated that his uncle tried to purchase Marvel back in the 1990s in an interview with a news website. He mentioned that he and Stan Lee discussed Michael Jackson’s eagerness to buy Marvel. Marvel’s bankruptcy filing announcement gave the celebrity the inspiration for the purchase. Being a major Marvel fan, Michael Jackson claimed he had meant to play the part of Spiderman. He wanted to buy Marvel to recreate Spiderman in his vision. But regrettably, that never happened.

6. Michael Jackson holds the record for most ever received Grammys by an artist in a single night.

Michael Jackson set a record for the most Grammys won in a single evening when he won 8 Grammys in 1984. ‘Thriller’ won Album Of The Year, and ‘Beat It’ won Record of the Year, among the eight. Throughout his career, Jackson won a total of 13 Grammys. He isn’t known as the King of Pop for no reason!

7. Michael Jackson was considered the greatest entertainer of all time.

Michael Jackson’s career was so revolutionary and prosperous that he was given many Guinness World Records, including the title of Most Successful Entertainer of All Time! In November 2006, Michael personally went to their headquarters to pick up his awards and express his gratitude for their recognition. He also took the time to thank the employees in person.

Some of the Guinness World Records Jackson holds are:

• The Youngest Vocalist to Top the U.S. Singles Chart
• First Vocalist to Enter The U.S. Single Chart at No. 1
• First Entertainer to Sell More Than 100 Million Albums Outside the US
• Most Weeks at the Top of the US Album Charts (Non-Soundtrack)
• Most Successful Music Video
• First Entertainer to Earn More Than $100 Million in a Year
• Highest Paid Entertainer of All Time.

8. Michael Jackson was married to Elvis Presley’s Daughter, Lisa Presley.

There were shock waves when the King of Pop married the King of Rock, Elvis Presley’s Daughter, Lisa Presley, in 1994. The media kept their wedding a secret as the couple didn’t want any distractions and the paparazzi around them during this occasion. The couple filed for divorce after 20 months of marriage in 1996. 

9. Michael Jackson wore a wig.

Jackson’s hair caught fire in 1984 while shooting for a Pepsi commercial. The singer sustained second and third-degree burns due to the incident, which is thought to be why he began to don a wig. His managers said that he had been concealing the bald spot with the wig for years. Pepsi gave him compensation of $1.5 million to cover the losses.  This was also disclosed in a recent 2019 documentary.

10. The infamous Michael Jackson “leaning move” was made possible with the help of a unique patent shoe. 

One of the dancing techniques for which Michael Jackson will be best remembered today is the gravity-defying lean, which he did in his 1987 hit Smooth Criminal. Many have pondered for years how Michael managed the 45-degree tilt without assistance from anything on stage other than his own body. The King of Pop, Michael Jackson, filed a patent for a unique shoe that gives the appearance of being weightless. While filming the music video for his single “Smooth Criminal” in 1987, Michael came up with a dancing move where he leaned forward 45 degrees to appear to be defying gravity. Of course, the audience was unaware that wires were being used to create the illusion. The dancing routine gained rapid notoriety. The heel of the shoe had a slot. A peg that could be raised and lowered through the stage when needed would fit into the space. Michael could lean forward into the linked ankle straps once his heel made contact with the peg.

11. Michael Jackson fans live on even after his death, and he is considered the most collectible celebrity worldwide. 

More than ten years after the King of Pop’s passing, some admirers are still committed to gathering mementos and trinkets relating to him.

Private auctions sometimes sell items owned by or connected to Michael, raising thousands of dollars. The official clothes he donned in his music videos and performances are among these things. This features the white gloves he frequently used with various other ensembles in addition to his well-known red suit from the Thriller music video. 

12. Michael Jackson wrote an autobiography named Moonwalk.

Jackson’s autobiography, Moonwalk, which included contributions from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and Stephen Davis, was published in 1988. It hit the top of the New York Times bestsellers list after selling 200,000 copies. Jackson talked about his upbringing, The Jackson 5, and his father’s abuses. Five months after Michael Jackson released his album “Bad,” Doubleday launched the book on February 1 of that year. Moonwalk topped the New York Times Best Seller list five months after its first release. It then re-entered the chart in October 2009, after Michael’s passing.

Also Read: Mae Jemison Facts

Conclusion 

Michael’s brilliance, charisma, and allure made him leave his mark on musical history. He became known as the “King Of Pop” thanks to his contributions to the entertainment business. He continues to rank among the most significant entertainers in the development of pop music and is remembered by many even today.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Kamala Harris is a well-known American politician and lawyer who created history by becoming the first female vice president of the United States as well as the first African American and South Asian American woman.

Kamala Harris served as California’s attorney general from 2011 to 2017 and as the state senator from California from 2017 to 2021 before being unexpectedly elected vice president in 2020.

Known for her progressive stance on issues such as criminal justice reform, healthcare, and immigration, Harris has become a leading voice in American politics and an inspiration to many.

Who is Kamala Harris?

Kamala Harris, a well-known American politician, and attorney, currently holds the position of Vice President of the United States.

She was born in Oakland, California, in 1964, and graduated from Howard University with a bachelor’s degree before attending the University of California Hastings College of the Law to earn a law degree.

Before moving on to become the district attorney in San Francisco and the attorney general of California, Harris began her career in public service as a deputy district attorney in Alameda County, California. In 2016, she was elected to represent California in the United States Senate, where she served until her historic election as Vice President in 2020.

Throughout her career, Harris has been a vocal advocate for criminal justice reform, healthcare, immigration, and other issues, breaking barriers for women and people of color in politics.

Fun facts about Kamala Harris

1. Childhood and Family: 

Born in Oakland, California, Kamala Harris was raised by her mother, a cancer researcher, and civil rights activist, after her parents divorced when she was young.

Her mother is Indian, and her father is Jamaican. Harris has one younger sister, Maya Harris, who is also a lawyer and political analyst.

Kamala Harris was also an avid reader from a young age, and her mother would take her and her sister to the library every week to check out books.

2. Name Pronunciation:

Kamala Harris’s first name is pronounced “COM-ma-la,” which means “lotus flower” in Sanskrit.

Harris’s name is often mispronounced as “ka-MA-la,” and she has joked that her name is often mistaken for “the comma-la” or “the kamikaze.”

3. Sorority Life: 

During her time at Howard University, which is a historically black college and university (HBCU) located in Washington, D.C., Kamala Harris became a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority. This sorority is particularly notable as it was the first African American sorority to be founded in the United States.

As a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Harris joined a sisterhood of women who are dedicated to service and scholarship, and she remains involved with the sorority to this day.

4. Second Lady: 

As the first South Asian, African American, and female vice president of the United States, Kamala Harris enjoys a special distinction.

Also, her spouse, Doug Emhoff, is the First and Second Gentleman of the United States, creating history as well. In addition to her role as Vice President, Harris is also the President of the Senate, which means she has the power to cast tie-breaking votes in the Senate.

5. Presidential Run:

In 2020, Kamala Harris ran for the Democratic nomination for President of the United States, making her the third woman and the first woman of color to do so.

Although Harris ultimately dropped out of the race, she made history by running a groundbreaking campaign that focused on issues such as criminal justice reform and healthcare.

6. Avid Cook: 

Kamala Harris is an avid cook and is known for her love of Indian cuisine. She has shared recipes for dishes such as masala dosa and chana masala with her followers on social media.

Harris’s cooking skills were put to the test when she appeared on an episode of the cooking competition show “MasterChef Junior” in 2018.

7. Pop Culture References: 

Kamala Harris has been referenced in pop culture numerous times, from being name-dropped in songs by artists such as Beyoncé and Tupac Shakur to appearing in a Saturday Night Live sketch with Maya Rudolph playing her.

Harris’s appearance on SNL was widely praised, and she even tweeted a response to the sketch, saying “That girl is played by @MayaRudolph on @nbcsnl? That girl was me.”

8. Tennis Fan: 

Kamala Harris is a big fan of tennis and has attended the US Open multiple times. She even got to hit balls with Serena Williams during a charity event in 2019.

Harris has also played tennis herself and has said that she enjoys the sport because it requires focus and discipline.

9. Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Advocate: 

Kamala Harris is a strong advocate for HBCUs and has worked to increase funding and support for these institutions.

Her alma mater, Howard University, awarded her an honorary doctorate in 2017. In addition to her work on behalf of HBCUs, Harris has also introduced legislation to provide relief for students who attended for-profit colleges that engaged in fraudulent practices.

10. Climate Change Activist: 

Kamala Harris is a strong supporter of action to address climate change, and she co-sponsored the Green New Deal resolution introduced by Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Harris has called climate change “an existential threat” and has pledged to take bold action to combat it, including investing in renewable energy and creating green jobs.

11. Early Interest in Politics: 

Kamala Harris’s interest in politics began at a young age, and she was inspired by her mother’s activism and her own experiences with racial inequality.

As a child, she even organized a protest against a policy at her elementary school that she felt was unfair.

12. Multilingual Skills: 

Kamala Harris is fluent in both English and Tamil, which is one of the official languages of India and the language spoken by her maternal grandparents.

Harris has credited her mother with teaching her Tamil and has used her language skills to connect with Indian Americans on the campaign trail.

13. Love for Dancing: 

Kamala Harris loves to dance and is a fan of Bollywood movies. She has even shown off her moves on the campaign trail, dancing to “Back That Thang Up” at an event in Atlanta in 2019.

Harris’s dance moves have gone viral on social media, and she even inspired a dance challenge called the “Chucks and Pearls Challenge” after she wore Converse sneakers and a pearl necklace to the presidential inauguration.

14. Supporter of LGBTQ+ Rights: 

Kamala Harris has been a strong supporter of LGBTQ+ rights throughout her career, and she officiated one of the first same-sex marriages in California when she was Attorney General.

In addition to officiating same-sex marriages, Harris has also fought for the rights of transgender individuals, co-sponsoring legislation to allow transgender individuals to serve in the military.

15. Workout Enthusiast: 

Kamala Harris is known for her love of exercise and has said that she likes to start her day with a workout.

Harris has said that exercise helps her stay focused and clear-headed, and she has shared her workout routine with the public, including doing planks, lifting weights, and practicing yoga.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kamala Harris is a trailblazer and history-maker who has broken numerous barriers throughout her career.

From her early activism to her work as a prosecutor, senator, and now Vice President of the United States, she has dedicated her life to fighting for justice and equality for all.

Her diverse background, multilingual skills, and love for dancing and cooking make her a relatable and inspiring figure to many. As the first woman, a person of color, and of South Asian descent to hold the position of Vice President, Harris’s impact will be felt for generations to come.

On July 20, 1969, as the commander of the Apollo 11 mission, American astronaut and aeronautical engineer Neil Armstrong became the first person to set foot on the moon.

Born in Wapakoneta, Ohio in 1930, Armstrong developed a fascination with flying at an early age and went on to earn a degree in aeronautical engineering from Purdue University. Before enrolling in the NASA astronaut program in 1962, he started his career as a test pilot.

Armstrong continued to work for NASA despite his historic moon landing and later accepted a position as a professor of aerospace engineering at the University of Cincinnati.

Tragically, he passed away in 2012 at the age of 82. Armstrong is remembered as a pioneer in space exploration and a hero to many around the world.

Who is Neil Armstrong?

American astronaut and aeronautical engineer Neil Armstrong rose to renown around the world as the first person to set foot on the moon.

Born in Ohio in 1930, Armstrong developed a keen interest in flying at a young age and pursued a degree in aeronautical engineering from Purdue University. He was a Navy pilot who then transitioned into the test pilot profession before enrolling in NASA’s astronaut program in 1962.

As the first person to set foot on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission, Armstrong made history by uttering the famous phrase “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” He maintained a job as a professor of aerospace engineering at the University of Cincinnati in addition to his services at NASA.

Armstrong passed away in 2012, but his legacy as a pioneering astronaut and symbol of human achievement continue to inspire people around the world.

Fun facts about Neil Armstrong

1. A Young Aviation Enthusiast: 

Neil Armstrong developed a fascination for flying at a young age. He took his first flight at the age of six, and by the time he was 14 years old—even before he had a driver’s license—he had earned his pilot’s license.

2. A Distinguished Military Career: 

Armstrong served in the United States Navy during the Korean War. In recognition of his service, he received three Air Medals and flew 78 combat missions.

3. Test Pilot Extraordinaire: 

Before becoming an astronaut, Armstrong worked as a test pilot for NASA’s predecessor agency, the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), and flew over 900 different aircraft models.

4. Scouting Spirit: 

Armstrong was a Boy Scouts of America member who achieved the highest rank possible, Eagle Scout.

5. The First Bachelor on the Moon: 

Armstrong was the first astronaut to get married after walking on the moon.

He married his second wife, Carol Held Knight, in 1999, over 30 years after his historic moon landing.

6. The First Person to Shake the President’s Hand in Space: 

During his Gemini 8 mission in 1966, Armstrong became the first person to shake hands with a U.S. president while in space. President Lyndon B. Johnson called Armstrong and co-pilot David Scott to congratulate them on their successful mission.

7. A Man of Many Talents: 

In addition to his skills as a pilot and astronaut, Armstrong was also an accomplished musician.

He played the baritone horn in his high school band and later learned to play the piano.

8. The Inspiration for a Comic Book: 

Armstrong’s historic moon landing inspired a comic book called “Neil Armstrong: The First Man on the Moon,” which was published in 1969.

9. The Smithsonian’s “Lunar Sample Return Bag”: 

Armstrong used a “Lunar Sample Return Bag” during the Apollo 11 mission to collect and store moon rocks.

The bag was later mistakenly labeled as a “junk” bag and nearly thrown away before being rediscovered and sold at an auction in 2017.

10. A Fan of the Wright Brothers: 

Armstrong was a lifelong admirer of the Wright Brothers and carried a piece of their airplane with him to the moon.

11. A Private Man: 

Despite his fame, Armstrong was a private person and shunned the public spotlight. He rarely gave interviews and preferred to stay out of the public eye.

12. A Man of Few Words: 

Armstrong was famously quiet and reserved. He is remembered for his concise communication style, which was crucial during the high-pressure moments of his historic moon landing.

13. A Modest Hero: 

Armstrong was known for his humility and often deflected praise for his achievements.

He once said, “I am, and ever will be, a white-socks, pocket-protector, nerdy engineer, born under the second law of thermodynamics, steeped in the steam tables, in love with free-body diagrams, transformed by Laplace, and propelled by compressible flow.”

14. A Champion for Education: 

Armstrong joined the University of Cincinnati as an aerospace engineering professor after leaving NASA.

He also served on the board of trustees for the Children’s Hospital of Cincinnati and worked to promote science education for young people.

15. The Recipient of Many Honors: 

Over his life, Armstrong was given a great deal of recognition, including the Langley Gold Medal from the Smithsonian Institution, the Congressional Space Medal of Honor, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

At the Kennedy Space Center, NASA renamed the iconic Operations and Checkout Building in 2019 in Armstrong’s honor.

Conclusion

Neil Armstrong’s legacy as a pioneering astronaut, skilled pilot, and humble hero continues to inspire people around the world.

His historic moon landing in 1969 was a defining moment in human history, and his legacy as the first person to set foot on the moon will always be remembered.

Beyond his achievements in space, Armstrong’s dedication to education and service to his community also made a lasting impact. He was a man of many talents and interests but always remained true to his roots as an Ohio-born aviation enthusiast.

Future generations will always look at Neil Armstrong as an example of human achievement and as an inspiration.

Joe Biden became the President of the United States on January 20, 2021, after serving as the vice president under Obama’s administration from 2009 to 2017 and representing Delaware in the U.S. Senate for 36 years before his presidency.

Throughout his career, Biden has been known for his work on foreign policy, his advocacy for middle-class families, and his commitment to social justice issues.

He has also had personal traumas, such as losing his son Beau to brain disease and his first wife and daughter in a vehicle accident.

Biden ran for president in 1988 and again in 2008 before finally winning the Democratic nomination in 2020 and defeating incumbent President Donald Trump in the general election.

Who is Joe Biden?

Joe Biden is a politician from the United States who has been involved in politics for more than 40 years. Born in 1942 in Scranton, Pennsylvania, he went on to study law at Syracuse University.

After serving on the New Castle County Council, Biden was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1972, representing the state of Delaware. During his time in the Senate, Biden became known for his expertise in foreign policy and his advocacy for issues such as gun control, the environment, and civil rights.

He served as Barack Obama’s Vice President from 2009 to 2017 before being elected as the 46th President of the United States in 2020. Throughout his career, Biden has been committed to promoting unity, empathy, and the values of the American people.

Fun facts about Joe Biden

1. The Ice Cream Connoisseur:

Joe Biden’s love for ice cream is well-known, and he’s even been known to order it for breakfast!

Biden has been spotted at numerous ice cream shops across the country, and he’s even joked that if he could have any job in the world, he’d be an ice cream taste tester.

2. First Dog in the White House: 

Biden’s dog, the Major, has become a bit of a celebrity in his own right, and he even has his own Twitter account.

Major has been known to make appearances at White House events, and he’s quickly become a beloved member of the First Family.

3. The Robinette Legacy: 

Biden’s middle name is Robinette, which he received in honor of his mother’s maiden name.

Biden has spoken fondly of his mother and has credited her with instilling in him a sense of empathy and kindness.

4. The Train Enthusiast: 

Biden has been a fan of trains since he was a child, and he’s been known to ride them whenever he can.

He’s even been spotted riding Amtrak in recent years, and he’s said that he finds train travel to be a calming and reflective experience.

5. The Poet Politician: 

Biden is a skilled poet who has released numerous poetry books over the years. His poetry often reflects on themes of family, loss, and the American experience.

6. The Sports Fanatic: 

Biden is a big sports fan and has been known to root for a variety of teams over the years.

He’s been spotted at numerous sporting events, from baseball games to golf tournaments, and he’s even thrown out the first pitch at a few games.

7. The Prankster: 

Biden has a reputation for being a bit of a prankster, and he’s been known to pull off some pretty elaborate practical jokes.

From hiding behind doors to pretending to fall asleep during meetings, Biden likes to keep those around him on their toes.

8. The Aviator: 

Biden’s signature style includes a pair of aviator sunglasses, which he’s been known to wear both indoors and outdoors.

He’s said that he wears them to protect his eyes from bright lights and to give himself a bit of privacy.

9. The Family Man: 

Biden has been married to his wife, Dr. Jill Biden, for over 40 years, and the two are known for their strong bond.

Biden has often credited his family with keeping him grounded throughout his career, and he’s said that his children and grandchildren are the most important things in his life.

10. The Movie Buff: 

Biden is a big fan of classic movies, and he’s been known to quote lines from his favorite films during speeches and interviews.

According to him, movies can encourage us to be our best selves by taking us to various times and locations.

11. The Cufflink Collector: 

Biden has an extensive collection of cufflinks, which he’s been known to give as gifts to friends and colleagues.

Many of his cufflinks have special significance, such as a pair that belonged to his late son Beau.

12. The Christmas Enthusiast: 

Biden loves Christmas, and he’s been known to decorate his home with an impressive collection of holiday lights and decorations.

He’s said that he loves the sense of joy and togetherness that the holiday season brings, and he’s even been known to dress up as Santa Claus from time to time.

13. The Boss Fan: 

Biden is a big fan of Bruce Springsteen, and he’s been known to attend his concerts whenever he can.

He’s said that Springsteen’s music speaks to the struggles and triumphs of the working class and that it has the power to bring people together.

14. The Charismatic Orator: 

Biden is an accomplished public speaker and is known for his ability to connect with audiences on a personal level.

He’s delivered many memorable speeches, including his speech at the 2004 Democratic National Convention and his inaugural address as President in 2021.

His ability to connect with people through his words has been a major factor in his success as a politician.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Joe Biden is a seasoned American politician who has dedicated his life to public service. From his early days as a county council member in Delaware to his time as Vice President under Barack Obama, Biden has been committed to fighting for the issues that matter most to the American people.

As the 46th President of the United States, Biden has already taken steps to address some of the most pressing challenges facing the country, from the COVID-19 pandemic to economic inequality to racial justice.

With his decades of experience and his commitment to empathy and unity, Biden is poised to lead the country through a period of change and renewal and to work towards a brighter future for all Americans.

One of the most popularly grown tree fruits is the apple, or Malus Domestica, the fruit of the tree Malus Domestica, belonging to the family Rosaceae. The ovary and surrounding tissue are fleshy and safe to eat because they are pome (juicy) fruit. Apples vary in size, shape, and acidity depending on the variety; they are often roundish in form when harvested, measuring around 5-10 cm in diameter and varying shades of red, green, or yellow.

Apples are rich in carbs, contain vitamins A and C, and are a prime source of dietary fiber. Apples can be consumed raw or cooked in many different ways, and they are widely used as a filling for pastries; apple pie is perhaps the most iconic American delicacy. Fried apples are often served with pork or sausages, particularly in European countries. 

Let’s take a closer look at some facts about apples. 

Also Read: 21 Interesting Facts About Oranges

Here are 12 interesting facts about apples!

Half of the world’s deciduous fruit tree is made up of apples!

Deciduous fruit trees make up most of the two categories of fruit trees, the second being evergreens. Trees classified as deciduous bear flowers in the spring and summer and shed all their leaves in the autumn. These trees are barren in the winter because they need cold temperatures to bear fruit and blossoms. Apple trees make up over half of all deciduous fruit trees utilized for fruit production. China, the United States, Poland, Italy, and Turkey are the nations that produce the majority of these trees.

Apples were discovered 750,000 years ago!

Kazakhstan, a country in central Asia east of the Caspian Sea, is where apples were first discovered. Alma Ata, Kazakhstan’s capital, translates to “full of apples.” Apple seeds were transported across Europe by 1500 BC. The credit for bringing apple seeds and trees to the British Isles in the first decades of the Christian era belongs to the latter. Early Paleolithic hunters and gatherers in (modern-day) Kazakhstan, Central Asia, discovered crab apples growing wild in the forest some 750,000 years ago. These apples were incredibly sour. Additionally, Neolithic farmers in (present-day) Asia cultivated wild apples about 8,000 years ago.

There are over 7,500 varieties of apples.

One of the most well-known fruits in the world, the apple, is believed to have originated in Central Asia. The colonists later transported the tree to North America after it spread over Asia and Europe. There are 7,500 different varieties of apples on the globe, but you won’t find this many of them in your local supermarket. Together, the UK and USA grow 5000 distinct apple kinds. Some of the most popular varieties found all over the world include Granny Smith apples, Fuji apples, Golden Delicious, and Gala apples. 

Apples can only be grown in areas with distinct winter periods.

Since the apple needs a long time of dormancy, it grows best between latitudes of 30° and 60°, both north and south, where there is a distinct winter season. A short growing season and cold winters in the north hinder apple cultivation. Apple trees require well-drained soils; fertilizers may be utilized if the yield is insufficient. Farmers prefer growing apples on hilltops due to the cooler climate in those areas. Additionally, farmers prefer growing apples in hilly areas because the cold air that could potentially harm the apples drains into the valleys below them. This saves the apple crops from being overexposed to cold air. 

Apples have a lot of health benefits!

Apples are categorized as fruits that are high in nutrients and offer a lot of nutrients per serving. The following nutrients are included in one medium apple: 

• 28 grams of carbs
• 5 grams of fiber
• 10% of the daily value for vitamin C (DV)
• 6% of the DV is copper.
• 5% of the DV for potassium
• 4% of the DV for vitamin K

Vitamins E, B1, and B6 are also present in the same meal at 2-5% of the DV each. Vitamin B1 is required for growth and development, vitamin B6 is crucial for protein metabolism, and vitamin E functions as a fat-soluble antioxidant.  Apples contain a lot of fiber as well. They have soluble and insoluble fibers called pectin, which comprise a fiber intake component. There are around 4 grams of this nutrient in a single medium-sized apple (100 grams), which is 17% of the Daily Value (DV).

Apples contain malic acid.

Apples and pears naturally contain a chemical called malic acid. Malic acid is in large quantities in apple juice, apple flesh, and apple cider vinegar. It belongs to the group of natural acids known as alpha-hydroxy acids, frequently found in skin care products. It is also offered as a dietary supplement and is advertised as having several advantages. Apple is one of the best sources of malic acid. Apples include malic acid, which can keep your skin supple and hydrated while enhancing your health. This good substance treats gallstones, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue syndrome.

The heaviest apple weighed around 2kgs!

The biggest apple was planted and harvested on October 24, 2005, at Chisato Iwasaki’s orchard in Hirosaki City, Japan, weighing 1.849 kg (4 lb 1 oz). The size and variety of the apple also affect its weight. An apple typically weighs between 150 to 250 grams. A more prominent apple weighs roughly 6 ounces (169 grams), whereas a smaller apple weighs about 4.5 ounces (129 grams).

Apple is also known as the forbidden fruit.

Apples are frequently depicted as a mystical or forbidden fruit in various religious traditions. Since the name “apple” was used as a general term for all (foreign) fruit other than berries as late as the 17th century, recognizing apples in religion, mythology, and folklore can be challenging. Christian tradition says that Adam and Eve consumed an apple from the forbidden tree in the Garden of Eden, even though the Bible does not mention the fruit by name. Because of the legend surrounding the golden apples in the Garden of Hesperides in greek mythology, the unidentified fruit of the Garden of Eden eventually took on the name apple. The apple consequently came to represent knowledge, immortality, temptation, the fall of man, and sin. Because of the myth that the bulge was brought on by the forbidden fruit sticking in Adam’s throat, the larynx in the human throat has been given the nickname “Adam’s apple.”

Steve Jobs named his company Apple after visiting an apple farm.

Jobs says in his biography by Walter Isaacson that he came up with the name “during one of his fruitarian diets.” Jobs would only eat fruits because he thought doing so would keep his body odor at bay. He chose the name Apple for his business partly because, in the late 1970s, he lived in an apple orchard and believed the name sounded “fun, energetic, and not intimidating.”

Steve Jobs claimed in a 1980 video that the business, which was established on April 1, 1976, was named “Apple Computers” to appear in phone books before his former employer Atari. According to Jobs, the name personifies “simplicity” and “sophistication.” 

Also Read: Computer Facts For Kids

We know the term gravity because of apples.

According to legend, Isaac Newton developed the theory of gravitation around 1665 or 1666 after observing an apple fall and questioning why it fell straight down rather than sideways or upward. In an instant, he realizes that the same force—gravity—that sent the apple crashing to the ground also keeps the moon and Earth moving in the same direction—toward the sun. The apple tree that inspired Newton to develop his theory of gravitation is still standing in Woolsthorpe Manor’s orchard. About 400 years ago, the tree started to take root. It has been presented to guests as Isaac Newton’s apple tree for at least 240 years.

Apple trees take years to bear fruit.

A full-sized apple tree can attain maximum production in as little as four or ten years, depending on the planting methods applied. Apple trees mature exceptionally slowly, but other elements affecting their growth include sunlight exposure and the type of fertilizer used. A tree will grow more quickly if given enough sunlight, water, and nutritious food, than one that isn’t. During the growing season, apple trees require at least 8 hours of daylight daily. For successful pollination, two types are needed; can be a crab apple or a miniature apple. After planting, miniature apple trees will begin to produce fruit two to three years later. Ordinary trees might take up to 8 years to grow.

Over 60 million metric tonnes of apples are typically grown worldwide each year.

Averaging over 60 million metric tonnes annually, China produces most of the world’s apple supply. More than half of the crop is typically consumed as fresh fruit. A fifth is consumed for apple butter, juice, jelly, and vinegar. A sixth is canned as applesauce and pie stock. Cider, wine, and brandy production account for a more significant portion of the harvest in Europe. One-fourth of the global production is used for cider. China, the USA, India, Turkey, and Poland were the top apple producers as of 2017.

Conclusion 

It’s simple to understand why apples are one of the most widely consumed fruits worldwide. They are tasty, convenient, and nutrient-dense. Apples are present throughout human history and are an essential part of our culture, while also being a fruit that is fibrous and good for our health.

Flowers are one of the symbols of beauty, and they are used for decorations to improve their aesthetic value during special occasions like festivals, weddings, housewarming ceremonies, etc. they emanate fragrance which gives us a pleasant feel. It represents a variety of emotions and feelings, like compassion, love, friendship, divinity, etc.

If you pay attention and study flowers, you will be astonished at how beautiful and intelligent nature is! The study of flowers, their cultivation, and their applications are called floriculture.

Also Read: Plant Life Cycle For Kids

12 Fascinating  facts about the parts of a flower

Stigma plays an active role in checking compatibility.

Stigma is the uppermost part of the pistil, and its function is to receive or capture pollen. It is sticky and contains hair-like structures that help capture pollen carried by wind or insects. Stigma hydrates pollen grains which are dry when they leave another. Now, the hydrated pollen grain forms a pollen tube that penetrates through stigma and style towards the ovary. Stigma plays an active role in checking compatibility, wherein the pollen gets rejected when identified as different species.

Ovaries may be unilocular, bilocular, trilocular, or multilocular 

The ovary is the part of the pistil that houses the ovule. It is at the point of connection with the base of petals and sepals. It has compartments called locules; each locule contains one or more ovules. Ovaries may be unilocular, bilocular, trilocular, or multilocular depending on the number of locules.

The ovule, also called megasporangium, contains a female gamete called megaspore in the center. Megaspore develops from a megaspore mother cell. A series of different types of cell division transforms the mother cell into a megaspore. Ovules attach to the inner wall of the ovary at places called placentae (singular: placenta).

After pollination, pollen grains germinate and protrude as pollen tubes into the pistil from stigma, through style, and reach the ovary, which releases microspores. Megaspores in the ovule fuse with microspores, and the process are called fertilization. After fertilization, the ovule develops into seeds, and the ovary transforms into fruit.

Sepals provide support to the petals when flowers bloom.

Sepals are green-colored, leaf-shaped structures that form the exterior part and protect the interior organs of a flower in the bud stage. They provide support to the petals when flowers bloom. In most fully matured flowers, sepals are smaller in size than petals.

In some plants, sepals wither from the flower after they bloom. In contrast, sepals in some species grow until they form a bladder-like envelope around the fruit to protect it from being eaten by birds and animals. 

The anther is the structure in which Male gametes form.

The anther is the structure in which male gametes form. It contains two pollen sacs, which are also called microsporangia (singular: microsporangium). Each pollen sac has two chambers called locules which enclose male gametes called microspores. Microspores form by multiple cycles of cell division of cells called microspore mother cells. One of the significant differences between microspores and their mother cells is the number of chromosomes.

Petals are the most significant parts of flowers.

Petals are the most significant and most prominent parts of flowers. They are often brightly colored, and their size and shape vary widely across species. Scent and color are the two attributes of petals that contribute to pollination. The scent attracts pollinators, such as insects, including moths, bees, and flies. Colors create contrast with the background and attract not only insects but also birds and animals.

Petals have two parts: a broad upper part called the blade and a narrow lower part called the claw. Claw, in most plants, is whitish, unlike the blade, which is brightly colored. The claw and blade are at an angle to each other.

The life span of plants 

Some plants bloom with short photoperiods, and they are called short-day plants. Examples of long-day plants are spinach and Rose-of-Sharon. Some plants do not flower until age; for example, a sugar maple tree may not flower until 30.

Also read: Photosynthesis Facts

Flowers look simple but have complex structures. 

Flowers look simple but have complex structures seen when dissected and observed closely. Parts of a flower are classified into vegetative and reproductive functions. 

• Reproductive parts: the structures in the flower that interact with each other to form seeds are called reproductive parts. The pistil and stamen are the reproductive parts.
• Vegetative parts: are structures or organs that do not directly participate in reproduction.. However, they are crucial for the events that make reproduction possible.

Pedicel carries the weight of the flower.

The pedicel is the stalk or stem of a flower that supports the growth, carries the weight of the flower, and allows it to stay in the air. When flowers are present in clusters, the pedicel attaches to a stalk called a peduncle.

The pistil is the female reproductive part and forms the central part of a flower.

The pistil is the female reproductive part and forms the central part of a flower. There may be one or more pistils, which are collectively called gynoecium. Pistils are bowling-pin-shaped structures and comprise three forms: stigma, style, and ovary.

Stamen is the male reproductive part of a flower.

Stamen is the male reproductive part of a flower. Filament and anther are two parts of Stamen. Stamens are collectively called androecium, and the number varies across species from a half-stamen to a few thousand. In most species, stamens surround the female reproductive part of the flower, and perianth surrounds stamens.

Lilly, cherry blossom, and the flower of apples are perfect flowers.

A flower that has either stamen or pistil is called an imperfect flower. It is a unisexual flower because it has only one of the two reproductive parts. Lilly, cherry blossom, and flower of apples are some examples of perfect flowers.

Flowers of cucumber, walnut, and begonia are some imperfect flowers.

A flower that possesses both stamen and pistil is called a perfect flower. It is a bisexual flower because it has all two reproductive parts. Flowers of cucumber, walnut, and begonia are some imperfect flowers.

Also Read: 6 Parts of Plants for Kids

Conclusion 

The structure of flowers varies significantly across the plant species and goes through several elaborate processes from their initiation to transformation into a fruit. Undoubtedly, they are one of the wonders nature has produced.
Want to know more interesting facts about other topics? Continue reading Cool Kid Facts!

Have you ever started reading a horror novel and felt creeped out? Every time we read, we feel certain emotions connected to the kind of story it is. This is known as the mood. For example, if a story starts like “Harry was excited for his school trip to the zoo”, it will most likely have a fun and casual mood. Let’s learn more about mood in literature.

What is Mood in Literature?

Mood in literature refers to the feelings you take away from reading the story. The mood of a story affects your mood in real life! It is an important tool used by authors to make their stories more interesting and to give you a sense of what’s to come. A single book can have many different moods at different points.

Definition of Mood in Literature

Mood in literature is the general atmosphere and emotions the author wants the reader to feel while reading the book. A story’s mood is created with the help of the setting, imagery, the types of words used, and their tone.

Examples of Mood in Literature

Humorous: this mood contains funny incidents and hilarious situations that make you laugh. In Three Men In A Boat by Jerome K. Jerome, the characters experience several comical events and misunderstandings that make the story amusing.

Madness: this mood is chaotic and absurd. Random events take place and characters often do illogical things. In Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, Alice falls down a rabbit hole and finds herself in a weird world with a smiling cat, a talking caterpillar, playing-card soldiers, and several other strange creatures!

Mysterious: this mood is suspenseful and thrilling. It can also be scary and gripping, like in horror stories. The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle features a puzzling, ominous mood as detective Sherlock Holmes tries to uncover the mysterious identity of a fearsome and supernatural hound.

Tone vs Mood

Tone refers to the author’s use of words and their writing style. It shows the author’s feelings towards a topic or a character. It’s different from the mood of the story since a mood is all about the reader’s feelings. 

The mood also might differ from reader to reader, but the tone of the author remains the same. On some occasions, the tone and mood of the story might be the same.

Elements of Mood

Setting

A story’s setting refers to when and where it takes place. It’s one of the first things an author describes and is important in creating the mood. For example, a story that takes place in a haunted house at night will likely create a scary, gloomy mood.

Tone

An author’s tone shows their attitude towards the story. The tone might complement the mood. For example, an author writing about something that frustrates them might use an angry tone, to create an angry mood for the reader as well.

The tone can also create contrast with the mood, to create suspense. For instance, in a horror novel, the main characters might be camping in the forest. While the tone of the passage might be lighthearted if the characters are having fun, the mood of the story might be frightening. 

Diction

The author’s choice of words and their style of writing sentences is called the diction of the story. For example, an author might use old English words like ‘thy’ and ‘thee’ instead of ‘your’ and ‘you’ to create a Shakespearean mood.

Subject Matter

Subject Matter refers to the main theme of a story or the plot of the story. Clearly, this has the most important role in forming the mood. For instance, a murder mystery will usually require surprising plot twists to create a suspenseful mood.

Imagery

Imagery refers to the way authors describe physical things in a story to create a mental picture in the reader’s mind. For instance, an author might create vivid imagery of a grand buffet by describing the various foods and smells, to create a bright and pleasant mood.

Mood vs Atmosphere 

Mood and atmosphere both refer to the emotional feelings inspired in a reader by literature. But there’s a slight difference between them. The atmosphere is generally linked to a specific place in the story and affects the mood of the characters as well as the audience. 

For example, if the hero of a novel finds himself in the villain’s secret lair, the atmosphere of the place would be mysterious and dark. This contributes to the story’s overall tense mood.

Adjectives Commonly Used to Describe Mood

The mood of a story can be described using many adjectives. Positive adjectives include amusing, calming, dreamy, energetic, hopeful, idyllic, inspiring, loving, nostalgic and satisfying. Negative adjectives include anxious, confused, depressing, embarrassing, frustrating, hopeless, irritating, and restless.

Purpose of Mood in Literature

Authors create different moods for various purposes. A well-developed mood allows the reader to be invested in the story emotionally. The reader can identify with the characters and feel happy or sad, scared or hopeful with them. 

It also brings out the main theme of the story. A novel about death will have a somber mood, but one about love will have a romantic mood. This adds depth to the story and makes it engaging.

Case Study

Let’s look at Shakespeare’s Hamlet. This play’s subject matter deals with the death of a loved one and the resulting grief. Thus the mood is somber. Shakespeare also establishes a dark and fantasy-laden mood using setting, imagery, tone, and diction. 

The play opens with guards outside a castle at midnight. It’s a dark setting. They see Hamlet’s ghost roaming the grounds. Shakespeare describes the sound of the ghost’s footsteps to create scary imagery. A guard first speaks, “Who’s there?”. This sets a curious tone for the scene. 

Shakespeare also uses diction with dialogues like “It harrows me with fear and wonder” to frighten the reader. Shakespeare continues to develop the mood of the play, but this scene defines the overall mood as one of excitement, suspense, and dread. To date, it is one of Shakespeare’s strongest opening scenes.

Mood Outside of Literature

Mood exists in other forms of media too. For movies, a similar term is mise-en-scene. This refers to the setting and atmosphere of the movie, which helps build the overall mood. Movies use sets, props, lighting, and other effects to contribute to the mood as well. Mood can also exist in music. Some song genres like hip-hop and rap can be fast-paced and thrilling, while genres like classical music are more calming and peaceful.

Exercise

Guess the mood in these passages:

The girl looked at the treasure map and tried to control her heartbeat, as she tried to find her way through the maze.

Calm or Exciting?

The man sat at the empty dining table and drank his single cup of tea. He looked outside his window at the dying tree in his backyard.

Lonely or Cheerful?

Do you remember the famous line that Neil Armstrong spoke when he landed on the moon and achieved the great feat? His words ‘that’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind’ struck the minds and hearts of everyone. His line showed a sharp contrast between the two words. Can you identify them? 

The words small and giant have opposite meanings. This phrase used a figure of speech called antithesis. Antithesis means the direct opposite. It is a contrary opinion or a concept. The statement can include characteristics that are contrasting. Using antithesis can highlight and drive home an important point. 

Antithesis is found everywhere but it is used widely in films and literature. Using this makes the audience understand the point of the other person with more clarity.

What is Antithesis?

Antithesis is a rhetorical device that brings out the contrast in the statement. It contains two ideas in the phrase that are complete opposites of each other. They are used to strengthen an argument and make it easier for the listener or reader to remember. 

Antithesis is also used to make the reader feel a certain way. They persuade the other person to elicit a particular emotion that the writer wants to show.

The dictionary defines antithesis as the placing of a sentence or one of its parts against another to which it is opposed to form a balanced contrast of ideas. It means the direct opposite or contrasting ideas in the same sentence.

Antithesis examples:

Everyday examples-

Antithesis can be used in everyday speech as well. Many phrases spoken use this device. 

• Go home or go big- this is a phrase heard more in games.
• No pain, no gain.
• Speech is silver but silence is golden- this one would have been used by every teacher out there! 

Examples from famous speeches- 

• “And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.” – this was quoted by John.F.Kennedy during his inaugural speech as the 35th President of the USA.

• “We must all learn to live together as brothers – or we will all perish together as fools.” Martin Luther King Jr quoted this to highlight the contrast between two versions of the future.

Proverbs featuring antithesis- 

• Beggars can’t be choosers.
• One man’s junk is another man’s treasure.
• Hope for the best and prepare for the best.

How to write with Antithesis?

Antithesis is best used to add contrast. Concepts such as emotions and opposing elements of a setting use this. The concepts don’t need to be complete opposites but they should be distinct. Antithesis creates a lyrical quality so one should keep in mind the rhythm and wording to be similar. Overuse should be avoided since the impact will sound duller and make writing seem forced.

Why do writers use Antithesis?

• Writers use antithesis to create a contrast and present a choice between two different things.
• Placing opposites together gives more clarity and attention to its characteristics.
• It allows the expression of strong emotions and conveys range.
• It also allows the text to be more memorable for the reader or listener. 

Read this article to get more information on Literary Syntax.

Difference between Antithesis and Juxtaposition:

Antithesis often gets confused with other literary terms. Juxtaposition is one such literary device that is mistaken in place of antithesis. Juxtaposition places two things next to each other for an interesting effect. This is done to bring attention to their similarities or differences. The juxtaposition does not always compare or contrast, unlike antithesis. Antithesis could be a juxtaposition but vice versa cannot be told as the same.

Difference between Antithesis and Oxymoron:

Oxymoron is another literary device that gets confused with antithesis. Oxymoron is a combination of contradicting words placed next to each other. For example, living dead, making haste slowly, the only choice, etc. 

The idea of an oxymoron focuses on contradiction while antithesis is more based on opposites. Antithesis doesn’t function with only a few words and is not placed next to each other. Pretty easy to identify them!

You can get more information about Anaphora in this article.

Difference between Antithesis and Foil:

A foil is a literary character that highlights attributes and reveals information in another character through opposing traits. It is used to draw attention to the other person’s qualities. This can get confused with antithesis. While the character can have opposing qualities, it does not mean it is a bad character. This is a foil character. If the main character is a hero, then antithesis will mean being the villain and foil will mean being a sidekick of the hero.

Antithesis and Parallelism:

Parallelism is a literary device in which parts of a sentence are the same. They can be grammatically the same or at least similar in construction. This makes it a great persuasion tool as people find it a pattern and rhythm more memorable. 

The easiest example to understand this device would be Martin Luther King Jr’s speech- 

“I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. I have a dream today…”. 

Although anyone would not be able to remember the whole speech, the part that uses parallelism sticks to the mind. This shows the power parallelism holds in making a bigger impact.

Antithesis uses parallelism in many cases. It can involve parallel elements of the sentence which can be verbs, nouns, adjectives, etc. An example that has both antithesis and parallelism in it is from the book The Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens- 

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times; it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness;

Origins of Antithesis:

Antithesis originates from the Greek word Antitithenai which means set against. It comes from two words ‘anti’ meaning ‘against’ and ‘tithenai’ meaning ‘to place’. The earliest usage of this as a literary device is known from the 16th century.

Antithesis in Literature: 

Antithesis is a favorable device that a lot of authors use. Some of Shakespeare’s best works use this.

• Othello by Shakespeare- 

“This is the night

That either makes me or fordoes me quite.”

The antithesis in this is quite clear as the antagonist uses it to differentiate between the two potential outcomes.

• Julius Caesar by Shakespeare- 

There is a subtle use of antithesis here. The author uses it to show the contrast between the characters Markus Brutus and Marc Anthony. The former being a noble, honorable man and the latter being evil but honorable.

Antithesis in poetry:

• Paradise Lost by John Milton-

“Better to reign in Hell, than serve in Heav’n.”

There is the use of double antithesis here. One between heaven and hell and the other one between ruling and serving. The poet justifies that it is better to rule even in hell than be a servant, even if it is heaven.

• Fire and Ice by Robert Frost-

             Some say the world will end in fire,

           Some say in ice.

           From what I’ve tasted of desire

           I hold with those who favor fire.

           But if it had to perish twice,

          I think I know enough of hate

          To say that for destruction ice

          Is also great

         And would suffice.

      Antithesis is used to contrast fire and ice as opposing yet destructive forces. The fire represents desire while the ice represents hate. There is the literal and figurative meaning used by the poet.

Antithesis in popular culture:

• In the song ‘My Girl by the Temptations’ (1965)

I’ve got sunshine on a cloudy day

When it’s cold outside I’ve got the month of May.

The singer uses antithesis to express joy in contrasting conditions.

• In the movie ‘Beauty and the Beast’ by Disney-

The movie uses antithesis on its characters. While Belle is the epitome of beauty, the beast is a stark contrast by being ugly. Yet, they find their way to each other which makes it a heartfelt union.

Syntax in literature defines the arrangement of words and sentences that are placed together. It determines how words from different parts of speech can be put together to convey a thought. Syntax also defines the way in which sentences are supposed to be composed to give complete meaning.

 What is Syntax in Literature?

The rulebook of literature is known as grammar. It tells us where to include punctuations, capitalize proper nouns and so forth. Syntax however is the proper utilization of these rules in literature.

Syntax is the grammatical placement of words and phrases to form meaningful sentences. It is a set of rules that helps a person understand and make sense of a sentence. Sentences can be composed in a variety of ways. The arrangement of sentences in literature can change the way in which they are interpreted.

 For example:

‘She continued dancing gracefully.’

‘Gracefully, she continued dancing.’

These two sentences have a slight difference. The syntax in each case however gives a different meaning and perhaps, a different image. 

Hence, the usage of sentences and words in literature can convey different meanings based on the way they are arranged. In many cases, the usage of words in a sentence in a particular way gives meaning to it. It may not be the case when we change the placement of the words.

Syntax in a Sentence:

Usually in sentences, the syntax follows a simple subject-verb-object format. However, it is also used by authors to create different effects in sentences depending on the requirement. Syntax is an important tool used to create rhythmic, rhetoric or questioning effects in sentences.

 In sentences, we often use clauses. A clause is a group of words that consists of a verb and a subject. This verb and subject have a relation. This relation may or may not allow the clause to behave as an independent sentence. There are two types of clauses. They are independent and dependent clauses. The syntax of a clause states that it can form a complete sentence if the clause is independent. A dependent cannot do so.

For example:

‘More than ice cream, he likes to eat pastries.’

In this sentence, ‘he likes to eat pastries’ is an independent clause. On the other hand, ‘more than ice cream’  is a dependent clause.

Simple sentences:

The syntax of simple sentences follows a simple basic structure. It is in the form of subject-verb-object. A subject is a person or thing that is being discussed. A verb is an action that is being performed by the subject. An object is a person or thing that is receiving the action.

For example:

• He goes to college.
• She is going to the mall.
• He likes to eat food.

All these sentences follow the pattern of subject, verb, and object.

Compound sentences:

A compound sentence is a sentence made up of two independent clauses. When the sentence is broken down, the clauses make a complete meaning on their own. In a compound sentence, these clauses are joined together by coordinating conjunctions. These could be ‘and, but, or, nor, yet, so’ etc. They could also be connected by a comma or a semicolon.

For example:

• He went to bed late yet he still got up before me.
• She went to play but she lost her ball.
• He came home tired and he went to sleep.

Complex sentences:

A complex sentence is a sentence that is a combination of both dependent and independent clauses. This is a type of sentence that is improved from the simple subject-verb-object format. The dependent clause provides an extra bit of information to the sentence.

For example:

• They went to school and wrote their exams.
• The sky looks beautiful, especially during sunset.
• We got drenched in the rain, hence fell ill the next day.

In all the above sentences, the dependent clause provides additional information. It provides support to the statement of the independent clause. 

Compound-Complex sentences:

A compound-complex sentence is a sentence that comprises at least two independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses. It is like a mixture of both a compound and a complex sentence.

For example:

• Even though they left early for college, they arrived late and were not allowed in class.
• He got caught eating a bar of chocolate, hence he received punishment and never did it again.
• We went on a road trip but the road was blocked and hence, had to return. 

Syntax Examples:

Here is an example of the difference in sentence formation due to syntax.

• The boy jumped happily.
• The boy happily jumped.
• Happily, the boy jumped.

In each of these cases, the position of one word changes the tone of the sentence. Although each sentence is grammatically correct, the image that each sentence provides is different. This is usually done to make the writing more interesting. It is also used to emphasize certain points. This makes the writing more colorful and reader-friendly.

Many times, changing the position of words in a sentence doesn’t give rise to a meaningful sentence. In fact, the sentence becomes meaningless.

For example:-

1.

•  He drinks water from a bottle.
•  The water bottle drinks from him.

    2.       

•  You are riding a cycle.
•  The cycle is riding you.

In both these cases, just by changing the position of the words, the second sentence becomes meaningless.

•  In other cases, syntax can also affect the meaning of a sentence and change it completely.

            For example:-

•   ‘Either you run the day or the day runs you.’

The first part of this sentence says that you should be in control of your day-to-day activities. You should be the one to decide what to do with your time.

The second part replicates the fact that you go with the flow of your work. It says that you do not control what you are doing. It is often associated with people having a lot of work that does not have enough time in the day. It shows that you do the work ‘given’ to you and do not choose the work you ‘want’ to do. In such a situation you are being controlled by the work you receive in a day.

• In terms of punctuations and their usage, the syntax tells us how the person wants to say his or her dialogue. It often tells us how the person feels. The expressions that punctuations give can also tell the readers about the mood of a character and their personalities. 

            For example:

• ‘The ocean is so beautiful ! I will definitely visit it again.’ 
•  ‘The ocean is beautiful I will definitely visit it again.’

The second case gives us a sentence where the required punctuation is not used. It makes the statement rushed and vague. The sentence over here seems dull. The impact should have on the reader also reduces. 

• Often using words that are not suitable in a given condition, conveys a message that has a different meaning. In such cases, the syntax tells us which words to use. This depends on the type of sentence you want to form. Such a condition can arise due to the following situations-

1. Unnecessary use of words with connotations and meanings
2. Misuse of words
3. Usage of pronouns when readers can’t tell to whom it is referring.
4. Usage of the same terms repeatedly. 

Let us see a simple error caused due to word choice through an example:

• My cousin Harry apologized to Larry even though he doesn’t like him very much.
• My cousin Harry apologized to Larry even though Harry doesn’t like Larry very much.

In the first case, it is not clear as to ‘who doesn’t like whom very much’. Thus utilizing pronouns unnecessarily can create confusion. This will not allow the words of the writer to reach the readers.  

Thus the syntax plays an important role in the message that a sentence conveys to the reader.

Syntax with Active Voice and Passive Voice:

A literary syntax helps us in understanding whether a sentence is in active or passive voice.

In active voice, the ‘subject’ performs the action on the ‘object’  and is mentioned first. It follows the sequence of the subject, then the action, and lastly the object.

For example:

• ‘The parents left their children at home.’
• ‘We ate the food.’
• ‘They played a game.’

Most sentences use an active voice when written.

In passive voice, the sentence is restructured in such a way that the ‘subject’ is receiving the action. Taking the cases from above, let us write the sentences in passive voice.

• ‘The children were left at home by their parents.’
• ‘The food was eaten by us.’
• ‘The game was played by them.’

We don’t prefer using the passive voice as much because its usage sometimes leads to confusion.

However, there are certain instances where passive voice is used. It could be for the following reasons: 

1. To emphasize the action being performed rather than the subject.
2. To place a condition where the subject is unnamed or remains unknown.
3. To create an authoritative tone.

How to improve Syntax:

To understand a given sentence, the reader must process, store and combine a variety of syntactic and word meaning information. The ability to monitor relations between words in a sentence is known as ‘Syntactic awareness.’ To build syntactic awareness, we need enough exposure to both oral and written language. This helps in improving the quality of syntax used in sentences.

The syntax can also be improved if the quality of language used is increased. Better usage and quality of the language used will greatly improve the syntax. Hence, this will increase the ease with which a reader can comprehend sentences.

 Significance of Syntax in Literature:

Syntax is an essential part of literature. It allows writers to take liberty in the way they want to form sentences. It allows them to play with the position of words in a sentence to bring out different expressions. 

Moreover, syntax itself has changed over time. What was once commonly used is now hazy and unclear. Words like ‘thou’, ‘art’, and ‘wert’ are not used anywhere anymore. Instead, we use ‘you’, ‘are’, and ‘were’. 

Literature has thus helped linguists understand the course of change that syntax has undergone through history. This can help understand how people think. It has also helped in understanding the syntax used in different cultures.

Examples:

• “People generally see what they look for, and hear what they listen for.”

(To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee)

• The syntax of this line follows a pattern of repetition. Lee also repeated “for” at the end of each clause, giving the sentence a rhetorical character.

• “It is the easiest thing in the world for a man to look as if he had a great secret in him.”

(Moby-Dick by Herman Melville)

• Simple syntax often reveals an everlasting motto. Even a simple structure can sometimes create a phrase that becomes a statement of wisdom. 

Syntax in Poetry:

The general syntax of an English sentence follows the order of subject, verb, and then object. However, due to the freedom provided by syntax in literature, the order can be shifted to create artistic effects. These could be due to the following reasons:

1. To produce a rhythm or melody in the lines.
2. To put more emphasis on certain words.
3. To heighten the relation between two or more words.

Examples:

• Love will not be constrain’d by mastery.

            When mast’ry comes, the god of love anon

            Beateth his wings, and, farewell, he is gone.

            Love is a thing as any spirit free.

            (The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer)

• Even though this text is modernized, it still contains hints of the Middle English syntax. For instance, it shows the agreement of the subject god of love and the verb ‘beateth’. The last line as well uses an unusual syntax, “Love is a thing as any spirit free”. Over here, he says that love is as free as a spirit. However, with the change in syntax, it sounds more poetic.

• I CELEBRATE myself, and sing myself,

            And what I assume you shall assume,

            For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you. I loafe and invite my soul,

            I lean and loafe at my ease observing a spear of summer grass.

            (Song of Myself by Walt Whitman)

• In this poem, Walt Whitman has bent the rules of a straightforward syntax to create more interesting lines. The third line of this poem uses interesting word order. Of course, the poet means that for every good atom belonging to him, there are good atoms belonging to you as well. However, just by changing the sentence structure, the line stands out.

 Syntax vs Diction:

Syntax and diction are closely related to one another. Diction refers to the choice of words used in a particular situation. Syntax on the other hand determines how these words will be used to form a meaningful sentence. It is quite often to see a complex diction requiring a complex syntax to use in a sentence. Hence the combination of both of these elements helps develop a  tone, mood, and atmosphere in a poem or text. This brings out the interest in readers to understand a sentence by improving the language used.