Ever wonder how a zipper works, or how a crocodile can jump straight up out of the water, or how a dog can lap up water while standing up? These are some of the most important questions facing humanity – no doubt. Here are a collection of 25 animated GIFs that explain how things work… from zippers to spiders; violins to plate tectonics; and braces to dandelions; and more.

How a zipper works

How the gladiator spider hunts

How a violin string makes sound

How the continents have moved over time

How a crocodile jumps out of the water

How a lock and key works

How an ant walks

How a ladybug takes off and flies

What happens when we swallow

How a sewing machine works

How camouflage can be applied to a helmet

How particles move on a wave in a liquid

How vines find support

What happens when a slinky is dropped

How braces work over time

How underwater cables are laid

How corn pops

How the Pythagorean theorem works

How the face develops in the womb

How a dandelion grows

How to visualize and explain the value of pi

How a trumpet works

How a cheetah runs and uses its tail for stability

How a dog drinks water

How a debilitating fear of the ocean develops

Sources: Gifsforum.com; SenorGif.com; Dayleak.com; Gifbin.com; UltraSlo.com; Mental Floss; FreeYork.