A sinkhole develops when surface soil collapses or sinks into a new or pre-existing hole in the bedrock below. Sinkholes that form slowly through dissolution of the limestone bedrock may be noticeable when the soil begins to subside. In the case of a sudden bedrock roof collapse, the formation of the sinkhole may be quick without forewarning. If a sinkhole forms on your property, you can fill it yourself or ask a soil professional to assist you if the area is large. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Fill the bottom half to two-thirds of the sinkhole with limestone gravel or blocks. The rock will provide stability to the lower portion of the hole.
2. Place a 1- to 2-foot layer of clay or clayey sand on top of the limestone. The clay will form a semi-confining layer that will help prevent rainwater from eroding the hole and making it larger.
3. Pour sand on top of the clay later until you are within 6 to 12 inches of the land surface. The sand provides a good base for the top soil and grass or pavement cover.
4. Fill the remaining hole with top soil and complete with grass seed, sod or pavement as desired. If you plan to repave over the area, consult a structural engineer to determine if hole is large enough to require compaction prior to paving.
Large shifts in the Earth's crust cause cataclysmic earthquakes all over the world. But smaller shifts in fault lines occur all the time. Geologists study these smaller shifts, hoping to learn how and when earthquakes occur. Geologists hope that with enough data, they may someday be able to predict earthquakes in much the same way meteorologists predict storms. Measuring seismic shifts takes a wide variety of equipment.
Creepmeter
A creepmeter measures seismic movement with a simple wire. A wire stretches over a fault line and attaches to two firmly planted piers. Electrical and mechanical measurements show the relative change between the two piers as the fault slips. Creepmeters require multiple years of data. They have cyclical patterns as their rock base expands and contracts with the seasons.
Magnetometers
Magnetometers measure the fluctuations in the magnetic fields of the earth's crust. As stress grows around a fault line, heat builds up, changing the magnetic nature of the underlying minerals. Magnetometers must be carefully placed and maintained. Machinery, power lines and even cell phone towers all affect magnetometers, so they must be placed in isolated areas. Data obtained must be corrected for changes in the Earth's magnetic field as well as solar and magnetic storms that occur from time to time.
Strainmeter
The strainmeter consists of a stainless steel tube surrounded by a ring filled with silicone oil. The ring is split into three independent sections. Inserted up to 200 meters below the surface of the earth, the strainmeter is cemented firmly into place. As seismic shifts occur, the srainmeter records the pressure on each section of its oil-filled ring and sends the data to the surface to be analyzed.
Tiltmeters
Tiltmeters measure changes in the Earth's horizontal plane. There are two major types of tiltmeters, both using boreholes drilled near a fault line. The simplest tiltmeter is simply a pendulum. The pendulum lies underground surrounded by a charged plate. When the earth changes position enough, the pendulum shifts and touches the plate. A signal alerts the geologist to the subtle seismic change. The second type of tiltmeter resembles a carpenter's level. Oil or water, placed in a clear tube, is inserted deep below the earth. Cameras and mirrors give the geologist a clear view of the level. He records all changes.
Ocean Acoustic Monitoring
Earthquake survivors know that earthquakes make a lot of noise. On the surface, the sound of minor tremors are drowned out by everyday noise. But under water, the scraping sound of one plate as it moves against another is magnified. A variety of different microphones all over the planet listen for the sound of earthquakes. Sonobouys dropped by airplane record the sounds of earthquakes and marine animals in remote areas. The U.S. Navy maintains SoSus, or the Sound Surveillance System. This system, designed in the early 1970s during the Cold War, links arrays of cabled microphones. The system that once listened for enemy subs now gives geologists new ears for underwater seismic shifts.
Petroleum engineers develop more efficient methods for extracting oil and gas from deposits.
Companies interested in extracting the oil and gas trapped in deposits below the earth face many challenges in recovering the deposits. Petroleum engineers work with specialists to understand the properties of the geologic formations containing oil and gas so that they can determine how best to extract the resources. Even the best techniques can remove only a portion of the deposit. Looking to increase the profitability of oil and gas recovery, those companies employ petroleum engineers to develop new methods and technologies for extracting deposits more efficiently. Demand for qualified petroleum engineers is expected to increase by 18 percent between 2008 and 2018. Earning a degree in petroleum engineering gives you access to a job market where it is likely that the number of openings will far exceed the number of qualified applicants for some time.
Texas A&M
Graduating between 100 and 130 American and international students each year, the Petroleum Engineering Department at Texas A&M prides itself in having the most rigorous preparation program in the industry. The four-year curriculum provides the theoretical background necessary to begin working in the field, and the internship requirement ensures that graduates of the program can apply their understanding of theory to practice. Texas A&M also offers graduate programs leading to a Ph.D., M.S. or M.Eng. degree for advanced students.
University of Alaska -- Fairbanks
Near to the largest oil field in the United States, the University of Alaska in Fairbanks (UAF) places a special emphasis on the challenges of gas and oil development in the Arctic. UAF places its students on summer internships with major oil and gas producing companies not only in Alaska, but in the lower 48 as well. Over 98 percent of UAF petroleum engineering graduates hold positions in either the industry or in graduate school. The department also offers a M.S. degree for graduates with or without industry experience who are looking to further their education.
Colorado School of Mines
The Colorado School of Mines petroleum engineering department aims to provide students with a broad base of knowledge through an interdisciplinary program. Undergraduates study as part of the geoscience and resource engineering program and specialize through curricular choices to focus on petroleum engineering. The School of Mines provides students with the chance to continue onto graduate work.
Marietta College
Marietta College's Edwy R. Brown Department of Petroleum Engineering and Geology is the 9th largest program in the United States. Further, it is the only program located at a liberal arts college, allowing students to receive the breadth of a liberal arts education while preparing for a career in the highest-paid engineering profession. Students at Marietta have access to internships as early as their freshman summer. The program also boasts 100 percent job placement upon graduation.
Tags: petroleum engineering, School Mines, Alaska Fairbanks, also offers, Colorado School
Skin cancer strikes people of all ages and skin types. Traditionally, a large area surrounding the cancerous area is surgically removed in hopes of stopping the spread of the disease. Mohs surgery has emerged as an efficient alternative to traditional removals.
Function
Mohs surgery removes skin cancer one layer at a time until the tumor is completely removed. The process examines each layer microscopically, mapping the cancerous areas and allowing the surgeon to remove malignant cells without sacrificing healthy tissue.
History
The surgery is named for its creator, Dr. Frederic E. Mohs. Dr. Mohs began studying cancer in the early 1930s while still a college student.
Benefits
The procedure allows the surgeon to remove less tissue area than traditional surgery, making it more cosmetically desirable. The success rate for new cancer occurrence is 99 percent, making it the most effective surgical method as of 2009.
Time Frame
The width and depth of the cancerous area determines how many layers the surgeon will need to remove, one at a time, to analyze. For most patients, the surgery can be completed in eight hours.
Considerations
Mohs surgery is conducted under local anesthesia, so the patient is awake and aware during the procedure. Skin grafting may be necessary for closing the surgical wound.
Volcanoes are an interesting science project because of their chemical reaction and visual appeal. The size and quantity of the needed supplies will vary depending upon your project size. Although the volcano can be made as small as a canister of film, if this project is for a science fair or a large class demonstration, make the volcano of a larger scale.
Instructions
Create the Volcano
1. Choose an appropriately-sized container and attach some crumpled tin foil to the outside. Fashion the foil at an angle that resembles the side of a volcano.
2. Cover the foil with brown polymer clay. To make the volcano look realistic, do not smooth the clay too much. Consider adding such small details as trees, grass or rock-like objects for added realism.
3. Blend red, yellow and orange polymer clay so that that it resembles the color of lava. Place the blended lava around the inside edge of the container, so that the inside of the container is no longer visible, and down the volcano sides so that it resembles streams of lava.
Create the Explosion
4. Experiment with mixing different proportions of Eno fruit salt and water until you obtain the desired type of explosion. Some proportions will cause a large amount of bubbling, whereas some proportions will cause an explosion whereby the lava will burst into the air.
5. When you have the desired type of chemical reaction, combine the Eno fruit salt, water and poster color. Place it into the volcano container and watch the explosion occur.
6. Conduct the experiment with the volcano sitting on a tray or cookie sheet that will collect the lava mess and make clean-up easier.
Tags: that resembles, chemical reaction, desired type, fruit salt, fruit salt water
Two common methods used for determining the ages of artifacts are relative dating and radiometric dating. Relative dating involves the concept of determining an approximate age of an artifact based on its location within structures, such as sedimentary rocks. Relative dating abides by the principle of supposition, which states that the lower the level of the rock strata, the older its age. The reason for this supposition is that the lower levels of the rock strata were formed before the upper layers of the rock strata. Radiometric dating involves the use of radioactive isotopes. An isotope is an element that possesses a different number of electrons. An an example of a radioactive isotope is Carbon 14. Radioactive isotopes are unstable, and therefore decay into more stable forms. The time that it takes for half of the sample to decay is known as the half life. By measuring the amount of the radioactive isotope within a given specimen, and putting this information into an equation involving the half life of the isotope, it is possible to determine the age of the specimen. When considering relative and radiometric dating, you may desire to compare them. You can compare relative and radiometric dating based on their uses, developments and overall contributions to science.
Instructions
1. Compare relative dating and radiometric dating based on their uses. Both relative and radiometric dating are used to determine the age of an object or specimen, especially a specimen that existed many years ago. Relative dating and radiometric dating are often used to determine the ages of fossils. Fossils are very commonly found within rocks. By applying the principle of supposition for relative dating, a paleontologist can deduce the approximate period of time that the fossil was created. The specimen that the fossil represents most likely existed when the layer of rock it is embedded in was developed. The paleontologist will then apply radiometric dating based on the decay of a radioactive isotope found within the fossil. Within this process, the relative dating and the radiometric dating both help to establish valuable information about the age of the fossil.
2. Understand their development. The procedure of relative dating was utilized before the advent of radiometric dating. Nevertheless, for a long time, scientists were only able to determine the approximate ages of specimens, rather than an actual number. However, when radioactive decay was discovered, it was eventually applied to this concept of age determination as well. Relative dating allowed for the progression of radiometric dating because the approximate ages of the rock strata was the basis for the understanding that species evolved within different geologic periods. It allowed for the interest in discovering the specific ages of these specimens that existed within these periods.
3. Compare the contribution that relative and radiometric dating have made to the study of evolution. By discovering the relative and specific ages of the different specimens, scientists know that certain species of plants, animals, archaea and bacteria were associated with different geological periods. Without relative and radiometric dating, it would not be possible to deduce how organisms developed their complexity.
4. Study the location of some of the elements that have radioactive isotopes on the periodic table. Uranium and carbon are two such elements. Uranium can be found within igneous rocks. Both relative dating and radiometric dating involve the use of rocks. While relative dating is mostly associated with sedimentary rocks, radiometric dating is closely associated with igneous rocks.
Tags: radiometric dating, radiometric dating, dating radiometric, dating radiometric dating, relative dating, relative radiometric dating
When a scientist dates an object, he uses both absolute and relative dating techniques. Both techniques require examination of all artifacts to arrive at a date for the site and the objects found.
Materials Used in Dating
Stone, bone, pollen, wood, pottery and manufactured items are things used in the dating process.
Relative Dating
Relative dating is to establish a chronology of the site and arrives at a date relative to the objects found around it. Comparing pottery styles to known dated samples, or items found in the same sedimentary layer, would be examples of relative dating.
Absolute Dating
Absolute dating uses radioactive decay rates to establish a date for the site and its artifacts. Radioactive materials decay at known rates. By calculation, the age of what is tested can be determined. The radioactive method's half-life is too short to determine geological era dates.
Other Absolute Dating
Several methods are used for dating old sites and materials. Carbon 14 is the most common method, but several others are just as important, including obsidian testing, tree ring or dendrochronology, thermo-remanent magnetism, thermoluminescence, florine testing, varve counting and pollen analysis.
Overlap
Using absolute and relative dating together helps confirm the accuracy of the tests. This provides crosschecks to insure the most accurate dates possible.
Tags: absolute relative, absolute relative dating, date site, objects found
Fossils are ancient lifeforms that have been preserved in rock. They come in all shapes and sizes, including footprints, shells, flowers and animals. The study of these formations is called paleontology. Paleontologists analyze fossil remains to understand how life evolved and what existed before human beings. They have discovered fossils ranging from 10,000 to 3.5 billion years old. If you have cracked a stone open, or found what you think is a fossil, you may be able to idenify it--but consider speaking to an expert to confirm your find.
Instructions
1. Confirm what the object you believe to be a fossil is made from. Fossils are found in rocks, which are solidified sediments. Therefore, the first stage in identifying the object is to check that it is essentially, a lump of stone.
2. Find out where your fossil came from. As Anna Bradney outlines at Clearly Explained, fossils are known to be formed under certain conditions--such as near riverbeds or coastal regions. Fossils are often set in limestone, so if your rock was found in an area that has limestone, this provides a clue that it may be a fossil.
3. Inspect the shape of the fossil. Common shapes include shells or leaves. Organisms that have been fossilized tend to be simple, and vary depending on the region where they are found. For example, in Kentucky, cephalopods are common. These look like tubelike structures. Assess the imprint to see if you can work out a distinctive animal or plant shape.
4. Rub your finger over the top of the fossil. Since fossils are imprints of organisms, the surface will be bumpy, with the surface indented with the shape of the lifeform. You should be able to feel ridges or dips on the stone if the object is a fossil.
5. Compare the object against images of other fossils. You can find these in fossil books or online. Take a trip to the library to perform some research about fossils in your region. Ask the librarian to help you find specific books.
6. Submit a photograph of your fossil to an online community such as Fossil Web or the American Fossil Federation. Fossil Web has its own "Museum of Paleontology." This is a resource for people who think they have a fossil. You can upload a photo for identification by other fossil hobbyists.
Tags: have been, that have, that have been, your fossil
Limestone is a sedimentary rock primarily made up of calcium carbonate. Because seawater is one of the most common sources of limestone, its many variations can be located throughout the world. These varieties of limestone serve a number of commercial, agricultural, and ecological purposes.
Lime
According to "The Geologic Column of Missouri", lime is pulverized limestone. Lime has a number of commercial and agricultural uses, such as the neutralization of pH, odor control, steel manufacturing and sugar production.
Chalk
"Geology.com" describes chalk as a type of soft limestone. Chalk is usually white or light gray in color and is made up of microscopic marine fossils.
Coral Reefs
Coral reefs are limestone structures. According to "Coral.org", the limestone that makes up a coral reef is deposited by living organisms, such as the limestone skeletons of stony corals.
Travertine
According to "Geology.com", travertine is a type of layered freshwater limestone formed by evaporative precipitation. Travertine often makes up the stalactites and stalagmites found in caves. It is often mined to be used as flooring or countertops for homes and businesses.
Limestone for Construction
Both aggregate and cement are limestone products involved in construction. Aggregate is produced from crushed quarry limestone. It is used in the construction of homes, highways, and other types of infrastructures. Cement is created by burning a mixture of limestone and other materials, such as shale, sand and fly ash. Cement is then mixed with gypsum and turned into concrete.
Tags: commercial agricultural, number commercial, number commercial agricultural
The quaternary is the modern geological period that stretches back to the last 2.6 million years in which humans have existed. Before humans first formed civilizations, the quaternary was mostly known for the long period of glacial events and the quaternary extinction that lasted around 10,000 to 50,000 years ago for which some mixture of hunting and climate change was most likely to blame. Now fossils are all we have to remember most of the large fauna from this era.
Woolly Mammoths
The woolly mammoth (Mammuthus primigenius) lived on the tundra of North America and northern Eurasia from about 150,000 to 10,000 years ago, although a race of smaller mammoths lived on Wrangel Island until about 1,700 B.C. The species is in the same family as all modern elephants and is about the same size. Because of the cold climates and recent extinction, woolly mammoth remains can be found exceptionally well preserved. Remains are found most often in Siberia, where people used to unearth the ivory for trade. One stuffed mammoth was put on display at The Museum of Zoology in St. Petersburg.
Saber-Toothed Tiger
The saber-toothed cat or tiger, known as a Smilodon, lived in North and South America from about 1.8 million years ago to 10,000 years ago. A smaller precursor species called Smilodon gracilis lived as long ago as 2.5 million years. It was about the size of a lion and at its heaviest could weigh over 800 lbs., so it specialized in short, powerful strikes. Its most known attribute, the long teeth, could grow up to 7 inches, about the same in both males and females, and it had a jaw that could open up 120 degrees. You can see a Smilodon fossil at the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C.
Giant Short-Faced Bear
Arctodus simus was a giant short-faced bear that lived in North America between 800,000 and 12,500 years ago. The bear was one of the largest land mammals that ever existed, standing 5.3 feet at its shoulders and weighing 2,500 lbs. Because it was so big, it had to eat about 35 lbs. of meat per day. One fossil remains at the Royal Ontario Museum in Canada.
Ground Sloths
There are many extinct species of ground sloth, including Paramylodon harlani. This particular species lived between 5 million to 11,000 years ago. It was much bigger than modern sloths at around 6 feet tall while standing and had small bones beneath the skin that would have afforded it some protection. Many of its fossils have been found at the La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles. One of them was brought to the Texas Memorial Museum at the University of Texas.
Dire Wolf
Canis dirus, known as the dire wolf, lived in North and South America from 1.8 million to 10,000 years ago. It was around 5 feet long and weighed about 130 lbs. Although it is closely related to the gray wolf, it nevertheless is much older and does not share a direct ancestry with any currently living species. About 3,600 fossils have been recovered from the La Brea Tar Pits alone. The nearby George C. Page Museum in Los Angeles has a collection of dire wolf fossils.
American Lion
The American lion (Panthera leo atrox) lived in North America from about 1.8 million to 11,000 years ago. It is closely related to the African lion and exists within the same species, but unlike the common perception of lions, this kind adapted to the cold. Since it was 10 to 12 feet long, it was the longest cat that has ever been found, but its weight of 1,100 lbs. still falls short of the saber-toothed tiger. Many fossils havebeen found at the La Brea Tar Pitts, so you can also see the American lion display at the George C. Page Museum.
Tags: million years, fossils have, lived North, America from, been found, fossils have been, from about
A topographic map of a course can help golfers visualize the best route to a hole.
Topographic contours are a means of displaying the three-dimensional surface of the Earth in two dimensions, on a sheet of paper. The spacing and shapes of the contour lines allow those viewing the map to visualize the shape of the land in terms of the height of hills or depth of valleys and the steepness of the slopes that connect high and low points. Whether you want to map a golf course or a mountain range, the information needed to build a topographic map remains the same, and so does the technique of drawing the contours.
Instructions
Collect the Data
1. Obtain a detailed map or aerial photograph of the course, preferably a large version. A base map 2 to 3 feet on a side will allow you plenty of room to draw your contour lines.
2. Design a series of transects for collecting elevation data. You will walk the course along these lines, frequently stopping to read a GPS unit and record the elevation. Plan frequent measurements where the terrain is changing, such as at hills and bunkers, and less frequent measurements where the terrain is flat.
3. Walk the course along each transect. Stop at every measurement point, take a GPS reading of the elevation and record the elevation reading on the base map.
Contour the Topography
4. Choose a contour interval, the difference between consecutive contours on your map. Contour intervals are often round numbers such as 2 or 5 feet. A good interval is small enough to show detail but not so small that the map is covered with lines.
5. Find the highest elevation in the map area. Draw light pencil lines between this point and nearby points using a ruler. Estimate where each multiple of your chosen contour interval lies along each line and make a small tick mark. For instance, if your contour interval is 2 and the two points are 3 and 5, the 4-point lies halfway between them. Lines pass directly through any point with a matching value.
6. Sketch a smooth curve through all estimates with the same elevation. This line must also pass through any data points with its value. All points on one side of the line must be higher and those on the other side lower.
7. Draw another line at the next multiple of the contour interval. The line's shape should be similar to the first curve and must not cross it. Label both contour lines with their elevation and check to see that this line follows the two rules stated above.
8. Continue drawing contour lines and labeling them until the entire map is full. Completed maps have a line or lines for each multiple of the contour interval between the highest and lowest elevations on the map.
Tags: contour interval, contour lines, along each, course along, each multiple, frequent measurements, frequent measurements where
A geologist studies the Earth, exploring its materials, its structure, and the significance of these elements to modern life. A large part of geology is the study of how the planet has changed over time, and what that might say about Earth's history and its future.
What Geologists Do
Geologists are one of two major types of geoscientists. They analyze rocks and fossils to determine how they were created, what has happened since their formation, and what they can reveal about the evolution of life on Earth.
Preparation
The most basic educational degree a geologist needs is a bachelor's degree in geology. Most geologists, however, have a master's degree. Some geologists, most often those with high-level research positions or teaching jobs, hold a Ph.D. Aside from academic training, most geologists begin their occupation in assistant-level jobs and work up to the position they desire, gaining more experience as they go.
Specialization
A myriad of different branches fall under the geology umbrella. A geologist might study volcanoes, minerals, glaciers, the ocean or even the moon and other planets. With so many possibilities, it would be difficult to say exactly what a geologist might do any given day, especially considering that some geologists are employed by universities, some by the government, and some by private firms, while others are self-employed. Each type of employment is not only likely to have a specific specialization, but also a specific purpose in mind.
Basic Tasks
At its most basic, geology consists of doing three things: collecting data; analyzing that data in terms of current knowledge and how the new data might alter or add to that knowledge; and applying these findings to life on Earth now. A skilled geologist will focus not only on what happened and how it happened, but why it happened, and what can be learned from it, whether that means predicting an earthquake, finding the best place to build a building or discovering a new type of fuel.
Tools
Geologists use a many instruments to aid their studies. These may be as complex as machines that map underground rock layers using energy waves, or as simple as a small hammer or chisel and a magnifying glass. Work done in the field may require a geologist to carry equipment and any specimens collected that need to be analyzed back at camp. A geologist must have both physical and mental prowess to sustain long days of field work and operate complicated instruments, all while maintaining an academic frame of mind.
Location
Where a geologist goes is also highly dependent upon his specialty. Some geologists work mostly indoors, while others work mostly in the field. Those in the field experience all types of terrain and weather conditions. Some sites are accessible by foot and others require all-terrain vehicles or even helicopters to access. Geologists working with marine fossils or water processes may find themselves on a ship. To study the Earth, geologists must be willing to travel it, and when necessary, get a little dirty.
Tags: geologist might, happened happened, life Earth, most basic, what happened, while others
Volcanoes are the ideal subject matter for a variety of kid-friendly art projects.
Volcanoes provide an interesting opportunity for teachers to blend several subjects together including earth science, chemistry and art. Volcanoes are one of those subjects that tend to fascinate many children. Students can adapt their interest on volcanoes into a variety of art-based projects. Many of these projects are suitable for multiple elementary school age groups. Older students will require less teacher supervision while younger students may need help to complete the projects.
Volcano Puzzle
For pre-school students, a volcano felt puzzle is an ideal project where older siblings and parents can help. Shoe boxes, craft felt, craft paint, paintbrushes, brown flannel, red flannel, orange flannel and scissors are required materials. For each student, wrap a standard shoe box lid in felt, any solid color felt will work well. Allow the students to paint the bottom of the box with non-toxic craft paint. Students can use their creativity to paint the box, or paint it the same color as the felt. Set the box bottoms aside to dry. On the brown flannel, draw a large triangle to represent the volcano's mountain. Divide the triangle into three or four pieces. Draw thin rectangles on the red and orange pieces of flannel to represent the lava. Repeat this process for each student. Using scissors, allow the students to cut out their shapes, providing supervision and assistance as needed. Put the felt covered box lid on the dry, painted box. Encourage students to use their flannel pieces to build their volcano. The flannel fabric will easily stick to the felt, according to the "Making Puzzles" article published by Iowa State University. Puzzle pieces store easily inside the painted box.
Exploding Volcanoes
The classic baking soda and vinegar exploding volcano is an excellent way to introduce young students to basic chemistry as well as being a fun classroom art project. For this project, gather a 2-liter soda bottle, modeling clay, a plastic funnel, baking soda, liquid dish detergent, red food coloring, glitter and white vinegar, recommends the Enchanted Learning website. A disposable pie pan and glue are also recommended. Cover the work surface with plastic tablecloths and newspapers. Begin by gluing a 2-liter soda bottle to the middle of a pie pan, so the bottle is standing upright. Give students pieces of clay and encourage them to roll the clay in their hands to resemble rocks. One at a time, allow students to come up and stick the clay to the bottle to create the volcano. Allow some students to smooth the pieces of clay rock together, to resemble a mountain. Cover all of the volcano bottle, except for the opening, to allow liquid to be poured inside. After students have decorated the volcano, place funnel in the bottle's opening. Pour in 4 tablespoons of baking soda into the funnel. Squeeze in about 10 drops of liquid dish detergent. Pour in 1/2 cup of water followed by 2 tablespoons of glitter. Add in 10 drops of red food coloring. Explain to the kids that all of these ingredients make the volcano's lava. Have kids come sit in a circle around the volcano table before adding the final ingredient. Keep students about one to two feet away from the table on all sides. Add in 1/2 cup of white vinegar and watch the explosion.
Volcano Sandpainting
Sand painting is an ancient art form used by Native Americans to create paintings. Sand painting is also an excellent way for younger students, especially those in grades one and two, to play with texture in art class. Volcanoes, being made from textured substances such as rock and ash, are an ideal subject for playing with texture. For this project gather powered tempura paint, plastic containers, playground sand, paper, glue, popsicle sticks and plastic spoons, recommends the Kinder Art website. Have each student draw a picture of a simple volcano on the paper. Mix together sand and powdered paint, putting each color in a separate container. Fill a small, food container such as the ones used for spreadable butter 3/4 full of sand. Add two to three spoonfuls of powdered paint. Small groups of students can share the sand paints. Each group of three or four students should have containers of black, brown, blue, red, orange and yellow paints.Place glue on the paper and smooth it out with a popsicle stick. Be sure to cover all areas that will be "painted" with glue. Use a spoon to shake the appropriate colored sand paint over the area. Shake off any excess sand. When the paintings are complete, spray with hair spray to help the sand adhere better to the paper.
Volcano Storyboard and Flip Book
As students begin to get older, a clay volcano eruption and felt puzzle will probably not be satisfying. For older elementary school students, those in grade three through five, help them create a volcano storyboard followed by a flip book project, recommends the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Give each student a large piece of paper divided into five equal sections. Give a presentation about the five stages of volcano growth to the classroom. Encourage students to draw the five stages in each of the panels, starting with the first and progressing to the last. Explain to the students that this paneled drawing is known as a storyboard and is often used by filmmakers and television directors to visualize the story. Next, pass out two squares of card stock, five squares of construction paper, a hole punch and yarn to each student. Have the student recreate their drawings, one on each piece of paper. Be sure to keep the drawings roughly the same size. Stack the papers in order so stage one is on top and stage five is on the bottom. Place a piece of card stock on the top and one on the bottom. Punch two holes through the papers on the left hand side. Thread yard through and tie in a knot at the back. Flip through the pages rapidly and watch what happens.
Tags: each student, baking soda, 2-liter soda, 2-liter soda bottle, allow students
Web-based geologic timeline activities can bring the subject to life for students.
Geologic timeline activities can be found for free on the Web. Interactive games that test players' knowledge of eras, eons, periods and epochs are available, as are online tutorials, virtual flashcards and quizzes. Students can learn while being entertained with animation, graphics and drag and drop activities to make education fun.
Drop and Drag Timeline and Digital Geologic Time Tutorial and Quiz
Meteors and moon rocks are discussed as evidence of the geologic timeline at the Smithsonian Institute's website.
The Smithsonian Institute has an extensive website full of educational materials about the geologic timeline. Students can drag and drop through an animated timeline on the site, which includes information about eras, eons, periods and epochs.The timeline covers 4.6 million years ago to today. The site has lessons about the overview of eons, formation of the Earth, the Earth's atmosphere and surface. Information about evidence of the timeline, such as meteors, volcanoes and moon rocks are also included. Cristina McCoach's website hosts a game titled Geologic Time, which allows players to watch videos, view photos, read tutorials and play with links, then quizzes students on what they have learned.
Printed and Virtual Flashcards, Worksheets and Quizzes
Quizlet offers 9 virtual flashcard sets with audio about the geologic timeline.
Printed and virtual flashcards, worksheets and customized quizzes are available at Quizlet's site. Quizlet offers nine sets of geologic timeline flashcard sets, each with virtual flashcards and worksheets with audio, which can also be printed if desired. Customizable quizzes also come with each flashcard set, allowing students to take the quizzes with multiple choice, matching, written or true and false questions, and quizzes can be taken and scored online or printed with answer sheets.
A Virtual Journey Through the Geologic Timeline
National Geographic has an animated timeline which teaches students about dinosaurs in the Jurassic time period.
National Geographic's website takes students on a 26-page virtual journey through the geologic timeline covering the first tiny mollusks to Jurassic dinosaurs. Colorful graphics on a digital timeline can be clicked with a mouse to reveal layers of information on topics ranging from the world's oldest rock forms to oxygen levels rising. National Geographic also has a Dynamic Earth webpage, which covers topics such as plate techtonics, weather and erosion, as well as location-specific geologic history such as information on Turkey, where cultures have adapted to violent geology over the ages.
Geologic Time Scale Games
Students can test their geologic time scale skills with interactive games online.
Purpose Games hosts an interactive geologic time scale game on their site. A chart of the geologic time scale is displayed and players are prompted to identify certain periods on the time chart, by clicking on them with the mouse, to win points. Sporcle also hosts an interactive game, titled "Can You Name the Geologic Time Scale?" which allows students to name any era, eon or period and if it is a correct name, the game will place the name into its place in a chart of dates, eras, eons and periods. This game is played on a time limit of eight minutes.
In the high-stakes world of oil and petroleum chemistry, small decisions can be the difference between huge financial gain and ruin. According to the American Chemical Society (ACS), petroleum industry chemists experience "a dynamic combination of excitement and responsibility." Oil and petroleum industry products heat and cool offices and houses, keep vehicles moving and produce widely used synthetic materials. Today's research will result in tomorrow's environmentally friendly products and processes from the petroleum industry.
Responsibilities
Oil and petroleum chemists work with crude oil and its products, including fuel and polymers. Jobs include process control at the refinery, tracking oil leaked in a spill, developing catalysts for use in refining, and creating new polymers for fibers and resins.
Education
Varied positions are available within the petroleum industry for those with bachelor's and master's degrees in chemistry and chemical engineering. Applicants need a strong foundation in organic and physical chemistry as well as strong skills in analytical chemistry. Chemical engineers may have an advantage during the hiring process because of their experience in the business arena. Employers seek candidates who complete course work in industrial chemistry, statistical design and business in addition to organic chemistry.
Research positions in the oil and petroleum industry go to those with a doctorate. Although postdoctoral work is not a requirement to obtain a research position, it may give applicants the edge.
Experience
During the hiring process, some candidates learn they not suited to the corporate environment of the oil and petroleum chemist. While still a student, those with an interest in the field should learn about employer expectations and working conditions through summer internships and/or participation in a university-industry technology transfer.
Software Skills
Chemists working for oil and petroleum companies are under pressure to reduce the time and cost of research. They do this via computational chemistry. In addition, they use computer modeling to target the most promising areas for exploration, to aid decision making and to control transportation and field operations.
Abilities
Petroleum industry chemists are practical problem solvers. Of necessity, they focus on scientific product development rather than pure science research. Petroleum companies can be ideal places for people who like lab work and delight in turning ideas into new products. Crucial skills needed include leadership, teamwork and the ability to communicate with chemical engineers, product managers, media and customers. In addition to their technical skills, employers seek oil and petroleum chemists with an interest in business, a flair for sales and time management skills.
Working Conditions
Most petroleum chemists work for large oil companies. Some, however, work for companies that supply chemicals or provide technical support for large environmental systems. Others work with independent companies developing processes, such as fluid-cracking catalysis, or making chemicals used to facilitate drilling and refining.
The oil and petroleum industry is a high-pressure field. Petroleum chemists experience success only when their ideas launch as products.
At refineries, chemometrics specialists use their computer and statistical expertise to bring laboratory instruments online. Working with delicate equipment can be a challenge anywhere. In a refinery setting, however, instruments must perform despite hostile conditions such as locations that make monitoring difficult, vibrations from surrounding equipment, temperature extremes and continuous operation.
Although some petroleum chemists have jobs requiring work in a refinery, this is usually only to complete a short-term task. They perform most of their work in the lab as members of a team. Temporary assignments include collecting samples in the field.
Although petroleum chemistry is a male-dominated field, many companies are attempting to build more diverse employee teams in the early part of the 21st century, according to the ACS.
Salary and Job Outlook
In May 2008, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual mean wage for petroleum chemists was $81,440.
Because of the reduction in profits in the industry since the 1990s, oil and petroleum businesses are downsizing and hiring fewer chemists in the early 2000s, the ACS noted. There also have been layoffs, making the job market competitive. Basic research has declined. Research projects previously approved with time frames from 10 to 15 years now have much shorter durations and focus on providing solutions for immediate problems.
New career options have arisen, however, to address issues of environmental impact. Some of these new jobs involve research to replace refinery processes and products with cleaner, safer and more energy-efficient processes and products. Other jobs are in public outreach, corporate government relations and risk communication. In addition, government agencies need petroleum chemists so they can ensure industry compliance with environmental regulations.
Tags: petroleum industry, petroleum chemists, chemists work, those with, chemists experience, hiring process
Whether you are making a timeline for your own personal goals or a timeline about history, you can easily make one that can lay out all of your events you want to record. Timelines are created to help people set goals or remember certain famous events in history. Learn make a timeline and record events or personal goals.
Instructions
1. Buy some white blank paper. If you want something bigger, you can buy a plastic piece that you can post on your wall or office wall, and use a felt-tip marker to record things.
2. Start by making a draft of your timeline. If you are recording history, goals and family history, then start with the earliest date you can remember.
3. Add dates, times and describe what happened on this specific date. If you are setting a goal timeline, then set dates you want for the future, and note down each goal you want to achieve.
4. Place what you have written on your draft onto the new white paper or plastic board. Make sure you include as much as possible for each date or goal date.
5. Add new dates and events as they happen in life, whether it is general world history, country history or your goals that have been achieved at the date you set.
6. Write down as many events that occur, and note each date, day and time, along with all of the details. Your timeline might be very important to someone someday and could even become valuable.
Mastering science vocabulary games can improve science grades dramatically.
Science, because it has a unique vocabulary of its own, requires that students know what science words mean to understand what teachers are saying and to effectively convey scientific concepts. Today, science vocabulary games are considered essential to learning science. That's because teachers are finding out that these games interest students and result in much higher science grades.
FunBrain Weather Dog
Weather dog is a science vocabulary game designed for those in grades five through eight. It can be played at three levels: easy, medium and hard. You play the game by choosing a science word related to weather to complete the given sentence. The questions are multiple choice with three selections. A running tally of the correct, incorrect and total questions is displayed during game play and at the end of the game.
Science Vocabulary Hangman
Science vocabulary hangman is a set of science vocabulary games based on the timeless hangman game theme. There are hundreds of hangman games that have been specifically designed for different grade levels and different science subjects. You will find science vocabulary hangman games on physics, meteorology, chemistry, anatomy, geology and numerous others. Besides general science subject vocabulary games, you will also find very specific vocabulary games, such as atomic matter and cell vocabulary games. These hangman games present a question and blank spaces to fill in the letters that spell the word that is the answer. The hangman disappears one part at a time for each letter you guess incorrectly.
Crossword Puzzle Grade 1
The Houghton Mifflin Science Vocabulary Game Crossword Puzzle Grade 1 is played just like crossword puzzles in newspapers and puzzle books. However, this crossword puzzle has questions related to science and a few extra features. If you can't determine the answer from the original clue in the list, you can select the "Hint" button to obtain another clue. You can also look at all the puzzle answers by pressing the "Answer" button.
Eword Game, Grade 6 Unit A
The Houghton Mifflin Science Vocabulary Eword games require that the player read the word meaning then select the appropriate word from the list that is presented. This eword game starts with the sounds of the crowd in a sports stadium. A list of words related to the science of cells is presented along with a science question. If you select the wrong answer, a wrong buzzer is sounded. If you select the right word, an icon of a skateboard appears.
Earth science focuses on the sciences and relates to planet Earth. Earth sciences often include the disciplines of geology, meteorology, oceanography and biology, which help students gain a better understanding of the environment. Earth science presentation activities provide information about a topic as well as hands-on analysis opportunities through experiments.
Geology
Geology is the study of the Earth and the way it is shaped or changed. Geology examines plate tectonics and the history of life on earth, including changes from natural hazards, climate changes and the environment. Geologic processes include the erosion of soil and the process of sedimentation. Earth science presentations may focus on fossils from prehistoric times and how their location can tell us about the disposition of the continents at the time of the death of the fossilized animals or plants. Make a map of the Mesasaurus and Lystrosaurus (See the Resources) fossil findings and and explain why it can prove the existence of super continent.
Meteorology
Meteorology is study of the atmosphere, which includes the study of the weather and forecasting. Meteorology presentations may focus on how tornadoes form, the different types of clouds or how a storm forms. Understanding weather can help students comprehend how wind, moisture, temperature, clouds, barometric pressure and other aspects of climate patterns create climate. Students should be given a meteorological map of their area at a specific time of the past. Students should then try to determine the kind of weather and how the weather evolved. The student should be shown what the weather was actually like and compare it it their findings.
Oceanography
The study of oceanography focuses on the depths of the oceans as well as life under the sea. Presentations on oceanography may include a study of the ocean floor with a model, demonstrating the temperature variations and depths. Oceanography presentations may also demonstrate how the ocean never freezes or show how salt in the ocean compares with freshwater systems. Students should create a graphic showing the layer of life from the surface to the deepest part of the sea. Student should then look at the food chain in the ocean and determine if the different layers are interdependent or independent.
Biology
Biology is a science that focuses on the life of organisms, including their structure, function, growth, origin and development. The study of biology involves plant and animal life, from bacteria and viruses. Biology presentations may focus on how living organisms survive and the way in which they process energy to sustain life for their growth and development. Biology should introduce the structure of the cell and cell reproduction to gain an understanding of the continuation of life on Earth. Biology courses also introduce animal behavior, including the instincts of animals, learning, signaling and communication and other aspects of animal behavior. Students should create a map of the cell and its inner working down to the DNA and mitochondrias . Students should create a graph of what happens in the cell when it duplicate itself.
Tags: Students should, presentations focus, should create, Students should create, animal behavior
A Bachelor of Science is an undergraduate degree awarded by many universities. Although the definition and requirements vary, it is generally a degree awarded for studies that focus on a primary subject more intensively than a Bachelor of Arts, although the two degree types are often comparable in terms of required coursework and evaluations.
The Bachelor of Science Name
The name of the Bachelor of Science degree does not necessarily refer to study of a traditional scientific field. The Bachelor of Science is referenced by a variety of abbreviations, some more common in certain parts of the world. Abbreviations include B.S. (as it is often abbreviated in the United States), B.Sc., S.B, BSc, and Sc.B. Bachelor of Science derives from the Latin name of the degree, Scientiæ Baccalaureus.
Requirements
Like most other bachelor degrees, the Bachelor of Science is awarded after the completion of coursework that takes between three and five years to complete. While academic policies vary from one institution to another, there is no set criteria for the awarding of a Bachelor of Science. Degree conferral requires the completion of a certain number of credit hours. It may also necessitate that a student take specific courses in her major area of study, and sometimes a certain amount of coursework in a secondary (minor) field.
Examinations, written, oral, or practical, are part of the Bachelor of Science programs at many universities. Exam requirements are dictated by the nature of the subject area and university policies.
Subject Areas
The Bachelor of Science degree is awarded in scientific fields as well as for intensive coursework in other areas. It usually requires little liberal arts coursework and instead forces students to focus on a subject to a greater degree, sometimes exclusively. Bachelor of Science degrees are offered in fields such as mathematics, psychology, biology, medicine, chemistry, engineering, physics, meteorology, geology, and computer science.
Additionally, Bachelor of Science degrees are awarded in a number of fields outside the traditional sciences in areas such as management, business administration, criminology, advertising, journalism, hospitality, and foreign language programs.
At least 10 schools offer only a Bachelor of Science degree. Graduates of the five service academies, Babson College, Caltech, Georgia Tech, Harvey Mudd College and MIT receive a Bachelor of Science, no matter their field of study.
Relationship to Bachelor of Arts
The Bachelor of Science degree is often very similar to the Bachelor of Arts, both in terms of the work required for conferral and the course of study. Some subject areas are variously classified as among the sciences or the arts at different universities. This holds true for subjects that incorporate both a scientific element as well as a social element, such as economics.
Besides the subject itself, a Bachelor of Science may refer to more rigorous study of a more narrowly defined subject than a Bachelor of Arts in the same subject. Typically this results in a curriculum that features fewer liberal arts courses, few or no electives, and more required supporting classes that teach a subject directly related to the major course of study.
A relatively new trend is the awarding of a Bachelor of Art and Science (BAAS) degree, which effectively combines the BA and BS.
Honors
As with most undergraduate degrees, the Bachelor of Science is often available with Latin honors signifying the completion of special coursework or superlative academic performance (usually in the form of a grade point average above a certain threshold). Such honors have been common in the United States since the late 19th century but are used infrequently in other countries.
"Summa cum laude" (highest honor), "magna cum laude" (great honor), and "cum laude" (with honor) are the most frequent Latin honors, though other distinctions may exist as part of an academic legacy at certain institutions or in specific fields of study.
The world is shaped by physical and chemical weathering of the Earth's surface. Weathering is the process of breaking material down into smaller and smaller pieces through a chemical and physical process. As volcanoes push new material up from the Earth's core, it's slowly being broken down by the process of weathering.
Identification
The process of chemical weathering is brought on by the reaction of different particles coming in contact with one another. The different substances absorb and dissolve rocks, breaking down its material. The resulting material has different characteristics and composition than before. Physical weathering is the process of rock breaking down without any chemical changes. The rock is simply reduced to a smaller and smaller substance but still has the same chemical composition.
Types
Physical and chemical weathering can happen in many different ways and degrees, which is why some rock-like granite is very resistant to weathering and sandstone can break apart quickly. Chemical weathering can happen from carbonation which is a process of carbon dioxide entering rainwater to form carbonic acid reacting with the minerals in the rock and causing it to break apart. Another process is from oxidation combining oxygen in the air with iron in the rock, which weakens the rock. Physical weathering happens because of wind, rain, heating and cooling, and from plants. The conditions expand and contract the rock, causing cracks as well as wind and water to sand the rock, all reducing its size over time.
Function
The reason weathering plays an important role in the cycle of the Earth is because as volcanoes deposit rock higher into the atmosphere, weathering brings the rock back down to the surface. It's the planet's way of achieving equilibrium. Many of the unique features on our Earth are from weathering of mountain ranges. The Grand Canyon and Arches Natural Park are the result of physical weathering. The color of many rocks is attributed to chemicals interacting with the stone causing chemical weathering.
Effects
Both physical and chemical weathering happens at different rates. The type of stone and environment determine how fast rock weathers. Pollution also affects the rate of weathering. Nitrogen and sulfur gas in the air at high amounts bond with water and form powerful acids that increase the rate of weathering more than unpolluted areas. Rocks like limestone and marble are vulnerable to salt deposits and increase weathering more than from other factors. Clay stone is susceptible to hydrolysis and oxidation. Areas where the climate varies greatly from night and day will have more weathering because heating and cooling cracks the rock. Places with more rainfall will have more weathering because more water can enter progressively more cracks.
Benefits
Weathering is an important process and contributes to the eventual creation of soil which is used to grow food. Weathering creates sand on beaches. Weathering causes the salt in rock to be released and drain into the oceans, giving us saltwater.
Tags: chemical weathering, break apart, breaking down, from weathering, have more, have more weathering, heating cooling
Bentonite is a type of impure clay formed by the weathering of basaltic ash. There are different types of bentonite, but it consists mostly of montmorillonite. The unique properties of bentonite are ideal for a variety of applications. Bentonite can absorb 7 to 10 times its own weight in water, making it extremely useful as an absorbent.
Montmorillonite
Montmorillonite is the main constituent of all types of bentonite, making up roughly 90 percent of most types. It is named after Montmorillon, a small commune in Western France. Montmorillonite consists of phyllosilicate minerals that combine to form a soft clay. Montmorillonite is a member of the smectite family, and its water composition is highly variable. It is a 1 to 2 on the hardness scale and comes in white, yellow and buff varieties.
Silica
Silica, or quartz, is the second most prominent component. It makes up less than 5 percent of bentonite. Silica is also the second most common mineral found in the earth's crust. It is a 7 on Mohs scale of mineral hardness. Silica is a semi-precious material used for jewelry and ornamentation and ranges from clear to black in color.
Calcium Carbonate
Calcium carbonate is found in calcium bentonite and can compose up to 20 percent of the clay. Calcium carbonate is found in rocks all over the world and is a common substance in the shells of organisms. Calcium carbonate is used as a medicinal supplement and is the primary constituent of limestone. The calcium carbonate makes calcium bentonite a useful absorber of ions, as well as of fats and oils.
Sodium
The presence of sodium makes sodium bentonite an ideal absorber of liquids. Sodium is extremely common in rock forms, and its presence in bentonite allows it to expand up to 15 times larger than its dry size. In high concentrations, sodium bentonite forms a gel-like substance, making it ideal for applications such as cat litter and cement.
Tags: Calcium carbonate, bentonite ideal, calcium bentonite, Calcium carbonate found, carbonate found, second most
Dinosaur remains were discovered in Alberta, Canada.
People have been fascinated throughout time by dinosaurs and the events that led to their extinction. Thanks to science developing accurate carbon-dating techniques, it is now possible to assess the age of relics and other surviving evidence from the eras when dinosaurs were a dominant species on Earth. The new discovery of dinosaur fossils and footprints continues today.
New Discovery
Recent discoveries of dinosaur fossils and footprints have indicated the reptilian creatures may have been walking the planet far earlier than previously thought by scientists and paleontologists, the people who study prehistoric life. In Poland as recently as 2010, a team of scientists from Germany, the United States and Poland, which included Stephen L Brusatte, Grzegorz Niedzwiedzki and Richard J Butler, found what they said were the "indisputably oldest fossils of the dinosaur lineage," and added that "the Polish footprints prompt a substantial extension of early dinosaur history." Their report was published in of the Proceedings of the Royal Society.
New Theory
The Polish find dated back to the early Triassic age, which stretched from around 250 million years ago to 200 million years ago. The scientists said the footprints led to them reassessing their understanding of the origins and evolution of dinosaurs. This is because the discovery suggested the animals had their origin soon after what is known as the Permo-Triassic mass extinction, and that they were very small creatures that walked on four legs and had feet only an inch or two long.
Oldest Fossils
Previously, in 2001, a research team headed by Andre Wyss, associate professor of geology at the University of California, Santa Barbara, had reported in the publication Science to have found what were then the oldest dinosaur fossils in the north of Brazil. In that case, the fossils were dated to between 235 and 240 million years ago, but they differed from the footprints found in Poland. The Brazil find indicated a creature that was described as an ancestor of Tyrannosaurus rex, though smaller. It was a carnivore of about 6 or 7 feet in length with sharp teeth.
Geographic Spread
Evidence of dinosaurs is found across the world. As well as the discoveries in Poland and Brazil, among the earliest fossils found were some in 1999 in Madagascar, a large island in the Indian Ocean. The remains dated from the mid to late Triassic period and were of plant-eating dinosaurs approximately the size of a large dog. They were thought, at the time of discovery, to be the oldest remains ever found.
Tags: million years, dinosaur fossils, dinosaur fossils footprints, fossils footprints, found what, have been, Poland Brazil
Hikers, climbers and hunters often use topographical maps when charting an expedition in mountainous areas.
All maps have a horizontal scale, the distance represented on the map by a specific measurement. For example, 1 inch may equal 100 miles. Topographic maps feature a vertical scale in addition to the horizontal scale. Together, the horizontal and vertical scales allow you to determine three-dimensional features on a map. The vertical scale on a topographic map is also called the contour interval.
Instructions
1. Identify the different types of contour lines on the topographical map. The map contains a legend that helps you identify them. Thick contour lines are the index contours, featuring specific elevations printed on them. Thinner lines between index contours are known as intermediate contours. Four intermediate contours can be found between each index contour, according to the Geospatial Training and Analysis Cooperative.
2. Locate the map legend that lists the contour change. It looks like a typical horizontal scale legend, but it is labeled as the contour interval. If the contour change is 40 feet, which is common on a 7.5-minute quad map, the elevation change between each intermediate contour is 40 feet. The elevation change between each index contour is 200 feet.
3. Use the vertical scale to determine the elevation of specific points. Locate the nearest labeled line and count the number of lines above or below it to the point you are interested in determining. Multiply the number of lines by the contour interval. Add or subtract the result from the marked contour line.
Remember that contour lines are continuous loops. They encompass smaller and smaller areas as they get closer to peaks.
Tags: between each, contour interval, contour lines, horizontal scale, between each index
A physical description of the geography and climate of Saudi Arabia. Includes geographic boundaries, an overview of the predominant ecosystem, a brief history of the country as well as agricultural and mineral production. This article briefly examines Saudi Arabia's system of government, what countries it borders, and a list of Saudi Arabia's 13 provinces.
Size
Saudi Arabia is the largest country on the Arabian peninsula. It is bordered by the Persian Gulf to the north-east and the Red Sea on the west. To the north, Saudi Arabia is bordered by Jordan, Iraq and Kuwait. To Saudi Arabia's east are Qatar, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates while Oman and Yemen lie roughly to the south. All together, Saudi Arabia is approximately 2,150,000 square kilometers of a predominantly hot, dry desert climate.
Geography
Saudi Arabia has no rivers or large standing bodies of water. A high mountain range parallels the Red Sea on Saudi Arabia's eastern edge. It is along this eastern portion of Saudi Arabia that the two sacred cities of Mecca and Medina lie. The center-western portion of the country hosts the capital, Riyadh and important coastal cities such as Ad Dammam and Ra's al Khafji lie on the Persian Gulf. Jabal Sawda (the Black Mountain) is Saudi Arabia's highest elevation at 3,100 meters. As a desert, very little of Saudi Arabia is arable and thus Saudi Arabia imports most of its food with the exception of meat and other animal products. Water supplies are augmented by the use of coastal desalinization plants.
History
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was formed after the end of World War One, but internal conflict prevented the unification of what is now known simply as Saudi Arabia until 1932, an event commemorated on September 23 of every year. Control of water resources has led to several conflicts with neighboring states such as Qatar and Yemen, most of which are covered by treaty agreements with a few open to contention between the various states. Additionally, the government of Saudi Arabia exerts strict control over mineral resources within its borders, including petroleum (oil) resources. Economically, the control of natural resources has allowed Saudi Arabia to accumulate a high Gross National Product (GNP), a fact reflected in Saudi Arabia's role as a major contributor to other nations, such as Lebanon and the Palestinian Territories.
Function
The King of Saudi Arabia functions also as the Prime Minister and therefore holds a dual role in the government. All governmental positions, including in the cabinet and in the consultative or "Majlis al-Shura" are appointed by the King. No elections are held in Saudi Arabia and thus there are no oppositional political parties though groups such as foreign companies and women's right groups do exert some pressure on the government. The laws of Saudi Arabia are based on an interpretation of Shari'a, or Islamic Law, and are administered by a Supreme Court of Justice.
Effects
Saudi Arabia's major export is petroleum (oil) resources and is considered the largest known source of oil in the world. Oil and oil revenues drives the majority of Saudi Arabian governmental spending, though there are some initiatives to diversify the economy and attract foreign investment. Geographic and climate barriers, such as decade-long droughts and large salt flats prevent habitation other than for the exploration of oil in much of the country. Saudi Arabia is home to the largest sand desert in the world ( the Rub al-Khali, or "empty quarter").
Considerations
Saudi Arabia is divided into 13 provinces, each with its own capital city. The provinces are: Northern Border, Jouf, Tabuk, Hail, Qasim, Madinah, Makkah (Mecca), Riyadh, Eastern Province, Baha, Asir, Jizan, and Najran.
Potential
Though a desert climate, the extreme heat of Saudi Arabia causes many coastal cities to experience high humidity which can sometimes reach as high as 100%. Large areas of desert have been converted into passably arable land through the use of irrigation, allowing Saudi Arabia to become an exporter of certain agricultural products, such as dates. Increasing diversification, including the use of underground irrigation and water transfer may increase the agricultural output of Saudi Arabia further.
Tags: Saudi Arabia, coastal cities, desert climate, Persian Gulf, petroleum resources
Google Earth is a program used for virtual flight applications. It allows you to see many buildings in 3-D in big cities around the world to make the virtual experience more realistic. You can view skylines, for example. The 3-D capabilities are saved in a layer that you can apply to Google Earth on your computer.
Instructions
1. Launch Google Earth. Download it from earth.google.com if you don't already have it.
2. Type the name of the city you want to explore. For example, type "Chicago, Illinois" into the Fly To box. The map will narrow in on Chicago.
3. Click to check the box next to "3D Buildings" in the Layers menu in the bottom-left corner of the screen.
4. Click the map and scroll your mouse button up to zoom in. As you get closer to the city, buildings will start to pop up on your screen.
5. Change your camera angle to view the buildings from the side. You can do this by holding the "Shift" key and pressing the down arrow. You can also move the angle back up and rotate it left and right by pushing those buttons while holding "Shift."
Weather and climate can affect people in a number of ways. If weather permits good water flow into rivers, people can cultivate the fields and eke out their living through agricultural produce. Various human activities follow this primary pattern of production and consumption. But when the weather and climate of a given region change, it could adversely affect people's lives.
Effects of Climate Change on People
Weather and climate affect human lives in many aspects including social, economical, physical and ecological spheres. For the last few decades, the Earth's climate has deteriorated because of the gradual rise in global temperature. As a result, sea levels are rising and there is a reduced snow cover in upper elevations. Scientists have asserted that the temperature is likely to increase more because of the greenhouse gas concentrations in upcoming years.
Farming and Climate
Farming is directly linked to weather and climate. Dry, warm and sunnier weather of East England allows growing of arable crops whereas in the west people depend on pastoral farming methods. When there is a change in the climate it will impact agriculture and food production around the world. The norm will be then severe weather conditions, precipitation, frequent disasters, modifications in agricultural patterns and low yields of crops.
Climate and People's Health
A shift in weather and atmospheric conditions will also result in changes of food, air and water qualities as well as ecosystems. So it will have a devastating effect on people in the long run. Changes in weather and climate would distort the distribution of allergenic pollen species, resulting in infectious diseases spreading among populations and people dying from increased heat wave conditions. Climate change will lead to malnutrition, diarrhea and respiratory diseases, especially in urban settlements.
Climate and Water Resources
A climate change would influence arid and semi arid regions across the globe such as the Mediterranean basin, South Africa and northeast Brazil. These places can face further decline in water resources.
Other Impacts of Climate on People
People will be affected through drought, shortage of water, coastal or river floods which may lead to relocation of populations.
A general associate's degree has courses in English, math, science and social studies.
A general associate's degree is the study of college math, science, history, English and social studies with no specific major. Sometimes referred to as an associate's degree in general studies, this type of degree is available at community colleges. Every general associate's degree requires the student to fulfill a certain amount of college credits. Most colleges that give general associate's degrees require a minimum of 60 credit hours.
English
Basic courses such as English or English composition are required for a general associate's degree. Lansing Community College requires at least 3 to 4 credits in writing while St. Petersburg College requires 6 credit hours in English composition. The general associate's degree is for students looking to move onto a bachelor's degree in a specific major. Each college that offers associate's degrees in general studies has different minimum requirements for English, but all the colleges do require some course or multiple courses in English to qualify for a general associate's degree.
Mathematics
Mathematics is another important course required for a general associate's degree. Again, the number of credit hours required is determined by the college or the plans of the student to major in a certain subject. Most colleges that provide a general associate's degree require a minimum of 6 college credits in mathematics. The College of the Sequoias requires courses in algebra and a college math course as well as that the student pass two different mathematical competency examinations. College mathematics courses can open up numerous possibilities when attempting to select a bachelor's degree major.
Science
Most general associate's degree programs require some science courses. These courses can include biology, chemistry, geology or a combination. A minimum of 3 college credits are required when attempting to receive a general associate's degree at some colleges such as Central Piedmont Community College. Some colleges require more than 3 credits, such as St. Petersburg College which requires two college courses for a total of 6 college credits. The minimum science requirements for a general associate's degree depends on the college.
Elective Courses
A big part of the college credits required when working toward a general associate's degree is elective courses. Most colleges allow up to 24 credit hours of elective courses as part of the 60 total college credits required. These elective course requirements can be achieved by taking courses in music, political science, government, dance and a whole host of other courses. For example, Tallahassee Community College has elective courses in comparative politics, the United States Constitution and national government that qualify as part of the 24 credit hours of electives.
Tags: general associate, general associate degree, associate degree, associate degree, college credits, credit hours, general associate degree
When dealing with rock collecting, there's often more to it than meets the eye. Different types of rocks reveal different stories in history. For example, rich fossils often lie in the layers of sedimentary rocks commonly found near bodies of water, while lava can be an excellent source for metamorphic rock. Knowing differentiate the three rock types is a great place to start when you want to know identify different rocks.
Instructions
Know the Basics
1. Know the three types of rock--sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic.
2. Study the origin of the rock. Igneous rock forms beneath or at the Earth's surface due to the cooling and solidifying of molten materials. Granite, solid volcanic lava and basalt are examples of igneous rock.
3. Learn identify metamorphic rock, which was once one form of rock but has changed to another. It forms due to heat, pressure or some other influence all the while remaining in a solid form. Examples are marble, which comes from limestone, and slate, which results from shale.
4. Know what lies in your local riverbed. Sedimentary rock forms through the deposition and solidification of sediment such as clay. Usually it is transported by water (rivers, lakes and oceans), ice (glaciers) and wind. These rocks may appear in layers and are known to be rich in fossils. Limestone and shale are examples of sedimentary rocks.
Identify Different Rocks
5. Examine the specimen closely. Begin by looking for differences in texture like solid, porous, crystallized or grainy elements.
6. Pour vinegar over the porous or smooth rock. If it sizzles, you have a common sedimentary rock known as limestone or possibly a metamorphic rock known as marble. If not, you will need to further examine the rock for answers.
7. Note the arrangement of crystals, the color of its holes or the size of any particles. Small particles are usually sedimentary rock like sandstone, while large particles are another sedimentary rock called conglomerate.
8. Pay special attention to rocks with holes, as they can fall into either of two categories. Light-colored holes represent a sedimentary rock called tufa, while dark holes are surprisingly found to be igneous rock such as pumice.
9. Check the surface of the rock. Is it glassy, shiny or dull?
10. Observe the layers within a layered rock. Although sedimentary rock is known for its layered characteristics, several types of metamorphic rock also reveal layers such as slate and schist.
Tags: metamorphic rock, sedimentary rock, rock known, Different Rocks, Identify Different
Demand for engineers in the United States will increase by 11 percent from 2008 through 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. A number of Wisconsin colleges offer undergraduate and graduate engineering degrees. Both public and private institutions offer programs that combine lectures and projects to prepare students for entry into specialties such as electrical, mechanical and computer engineering.
University of Wisconsin at Madison
The University of Wisconsin at Madison is located in the state's capital. U.S. News and World Report ranked its engineering programs the 16th-best in the country in 2010. For undergraduates, the school's College of Engineering offers baccalaureate programs in biological, biomedical, chemical, civil, construction, environmental, fluid systems, computer, electrical, geological, industrial, mechanical and nuclear specialties. For-credit internship and paid cooperative work placements are available to engineering students. Master's and doctoral graduate students can study in several baccalaureate fields and in additional specialties, such as materials, industrial, manufacturing and marine engineering. Wisconsin residents receive discounted tuition rates. The engineering department offers job search assistance for all students and alumni.
University of Wisconsin at Madison
500 Lincoln Drive
Madison, WI 53706
608-262-3961
wisc.edu
Marquette University
Marquette University, founded by the Jesuit Order of the Roman Catholic Church, had more than 11,600 undergraduate and graduate students in 2010. It was ranked 126th among U.S. engineering schools by U.S. News and World Report in 2010. Specialties offered in undergraduate and graduate engineering include biomedical, civil, environmental, electrical, computer and mechanical engineering. A five-year program allows students to graduate with both a bachelor's and a master's degree. In the baccalaureate program, students must complete formal senior design projects. Paid cooperative placements are available through the engineering department. Approximately 90 percent of students receive financial aid, according to the 2009 Barron's Profiles of American Colleges.
Marquette University
P.O. Box 1881
Milwaukee, WI 53201
800-222-6544
marquette.edu
Milwaukee School of Engineering
Milwaukee School of Engineering is a private, nonsectarian institution that had more than 2,300 undergraduate and graduate students in 2010. Although its engineering programs were not ranked by U.S. News and World Report in 2010, Milwaukee School of Engineering was ranked as the ninth-best baccalaureate colleges in the Midwest by U.S. News and World Report. Bachelor of Science degrees are offered in general engineering, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering. Master of Science degrees are offered in structuring and environmental engineering. All graduate programs also are offered on a part-time basis evenings and weekends, and undergraduates can study fulltime or part-time. Approximately 97 percent of students receive financial aid, according to 2009 Barron's Profiles of American Colleges.
Milwaukee School of Engineering
1025 North Broadway
Milwaukee, WI 53202
800-332-6763
msoe.edu
Tags: Milwaukee School, Milwaukee School Engineering, News World, News World Report, School Engineering, undergraduate graduate, World Report
Geoscience technicians work with rocks and minerals.
Scientists use their understanding of the world to develop new processes and products useful to humanity. The study of the physical composition of the earth and the materials from which it is made is the purview of the geoscientist. Geoscience technicians are skilled workers who assist scientists as they collect data and samples, analyze findings, and make predictions based on their data.
Duties
Geoscience technicians perform a wide variety of tasks related to the study of geological processes and phenomena. The technicians set up, operate and repair scientific equipment, make calculations and record data or observations. Their tasks are generally more hands-on than those of the geoscientist. While the scientist might design an experiment, it is often up to the technician to carry out the procedures and ensure the experiment runs properly. Geoscience technicians often work for the government or companies involved in geological and petroleum exploration. They use their expert knowledge of laboratory and field equipment to help plan experiments and studies, and can be required to analyze equipment malfunctions to solve problems.
Education and Training
Most employers hire geoscience technicians who have at least two years of post-secondary education, and often require a bachelor's degree in geology, chemistry or related fields. These workers need a good background in and understanding of laboratory environment procedures. Those applying for fieldwork positions may need some experience in field operations, though these skills may be learned on the job.
Skills
Having a curiosity about the natural world and a desire to learn and discover is an important part of the geoscience technician's job. These workers must have a meticulous nature, because performing scientific experiments and procedures requires a keen attention to detail and the ability to follow complicated procedures. Working in a team environment is common, and the ability to collaborate and work with others is vital.
Daily Life
Geoscience technicians can divide their time between laboratory work and field assignments. These workers often spend a typical 40-hour work week in an indoor or laboratory setting, but can also work long or extended hours when on a field assignment. Working in remote environments sometimes brings them into contact with hazardous situations, though injuries are not common.
Salary and Jobs
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were about 15,200 geoscience technician positions in 2008. Job growth in this area is expected to experience little or no change from 2008 to 2018. However, the number of jobs in this area is closely tied to the price of oil, and as oil prices increase, oil exploration and development companies typically increase hiring for these positions. The median hourly salary for petroleum and geological science technicians in 2008 was about $25.65 an hour.
Tags: Geoscience technicians, These workers, geoscience technician, Geoscience technicians, this area, work with