Brainteasers & Riddles

Scientists get to solve puzzles every day, because science and research involve finding solutions from the clues that we are given. Just like with brainteasers (or brain teasers) and riddles, the answers to science mysteries are not always easy to see at first. With time and effort, they eventually become clear.

But before solving the hundreds of brainteasers and riddles below, why not learn more about your brain by viewing the parts of the brain and what they do and taking a video tour of your brain to see how it functions each day. And then have some fun with all our brainteasers and riddles below. We give you the answers for every one so you can check to see how well you did. Challenge your parents and friends too.

All of the following are text only versions

Other Brainteaser Resources (Links)

All of the following brainteaser links are to non-NIEHS sites; therefore, please review our Link Cautions below before proceeding:

Links Disclaimer and Caution:

When you encounter the words "Non-NIEHS Link", it means that by following that link you will be leaving the NIEHS website. NIEHS is NOT responsible for non-NIEHS websites. Sites maintained by outside organizations may be changed without notice to NIEHS. Therefore, unless the link is to another U.S. government sponsored webpage, endorsement by NIEHS is not implied, and NIEHS does not guarantee their continuing safe content or privacy policies. So please ask your parent or guardian before continuing to any non-NIEHS website, and especially before providing any information via the internet or by e-mail. When last reviewed, the websites linked from the NIEHS Kids' Pages seemed suitable for you to visit, but that may have changed; if you have any difficulties or concerns with any linked materials, please let us know .

Braingle (non-NIEHS site)
Education Place Brainteasers (non-NIEHS site)
Brain Bashers (non-NIEHS site) (brain teasers and optical illusions)
The Null Set Puzzles and Games (non-NIEHS site) (provides challenging math brainteasers)
The Grey Labyrinth Puzzles (non-NIEHS site)

Confused about any of the riddles?

Even Einstein didn't know everything -- so if you're having trouble understanding something on our website, or if you have a funny science joke, riddle, or brainteaser to share, let us know. But first, familiarize yourself with our Privacy Policies and other Disclaimers, which restrict our use of any information we receive from you. And be sure to ask permission from your parent or guardian! You should always get permission from your parents or guardian before providing any information through the internet or by e-mail.

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