Technology

42 recent checks in this topic

Latest checks · Page 3

Photovoltaic solar panels on a rooftop beneath an overcast daytime sky.

Technology

Can solar panels generate electricity on cloudy days?

Yes. Solar panels can use diffuse daylight when clouds block direct sunshine. Their output generally falls as less sunlight reaches the cells.

Verdict

True

Verification confidenceHigh

Conceptual illustration of an Earth-observing radar satellite above a cloud-covered part of Earth.

Technology

Can radar satellites image Earth's surface through clouds and at night?

Yes. Synthetic aperture radar sends its own pulses and uses their echoes to form images. It can operate through clouds and without sunlight.

Verdict

True

Verification confidenceHigh

An LED bulb and an incandescent bulb beside their packaging.

Technology

Does a higher-wattage light bulb always produce more light?

No. Watts measure power consumption, while lumens describe light output. A more efficient bulb can produce the same amount of light using fewer watts.

Verdict

False

Verification confidenceHigh

A smartphone resting on a dry surface beside scattered water droplets.

Technology

Is a smartphone's water resistance permanent?

No. Water resistance can decrease with normal wear. Apple and Google both warn that a phone's original protection may not last unchanged.

Verdict

False

Verification confidenceHigh

A digital camera and a smartphone aimed at the same tabletop still life.

Technology

Do more megapixels always mean better photo quality?

No. Megapixels describe pixel count, not overall image quality. Sensor design and light capture also matter, while extra resolution can help with cropping and printing.

Verdict

False

Verification confidenceHigh

A smartphone on an outdoor table displaying a generic downloaded map.

Technology

Does GPS need an internet connection to determine your location?

No. GPS calculates location from satellite signals. Maps and online features are separate: some apps can navigate offline using previously downloaded maps.

Verdict

False

Verification confidenceHigh

A smartphone and wireless speaker positioned apart in a spacious room.

Technology

Is Bluetooth limited to a range of 10 metres?

No. Bluetooth can work beyond 10 metres. Actual range depends on the devices, radio settings, antennas and surroundings; long-range tests do not predict headphone performance.

Verdict

False

Verification confidenceHigh

An intact orange aircraft flight recorder on a technical workbench.

Technology

Are aircraft black boxes actually black?

No. These flight recorders are orange to make them easier to locate. The familiar name does not describe their exterior colour.

Verdict

False

Verification confidenceHigh