This week’s new questions

Is it better to keep a fart or a burp in, or let it out? And are different parts of the brain engaged when reading a good novel or listening to the same story on audiobook?

9 July 2025

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Last Word is �鶹��ý’s long-running series in which readers give scientific answers to each other’s questions, ranging from the minutiae of everyday life to absurd astronomical hypotheticals. To answer a question or ask a new one, email lastword@newscientist.com

Is it better to keep a fart or a burp in, or let it out?

Paul Douglas,

Wellington, New Zealand

Book, reading and relax with teen on bed in home for weekend education, literature or study. Hobby, novel or storytelling with boy in bedroom of apartment for development, growth or learning; Shutterstock ID 2541134517; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: - — PeopleImages.com/Yuri A/Shutterstock

How does the experience of reading a good novel differ from listening to the same story on audiobook? Are different parts of the brain engaged?

Jo Howard,

St Ives, Cornwall, UK

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