Why farts smell and 5 more flatulence facts

Everyone farts. Whether you find it embarrassing or disgusting depends a lot on whether you’re alone (age probably makes a difference too, given kids’ affinity for fart jokes). But why do we do fart? Why are some farts smellier than others? Why are some silent, while others make a can’t-be-missed announcement that gas has been passed? Is there anything you can do to fart less? We’ve answered all the questions you’re too embarrassed to ask, from what’s in a fart to how much is normal.