1) The concept of separation of powers, as articulated by French philosopher Montesquieu, refers to the division of government responsibilities into distinct branches, such as the executive, legislative, and judicial, to prevent concentration of power.

2) The world's largest volcano, Mauna Loa in Hawaii, is also one of the most active. It stands over 13,000 feet (4,000 meters) above sea level.

3) The most intense cyclone ever recorded was Cyclone Tip in 1979, with a minimum central pressure of 870 millibars and maximum sustained winds of 190 miles per hour (305 kilometers per hour).

4) The first sound film, "The Jazz Singer," was released in 1927 and marked the transition from silent movies to "talkies."