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The Quabbin Resevoir, 2006.
A geological and historical overview of the Quabbin Reservoir near Boston.
1,430 words (approx. 5.7 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
This paper studies the Quabbin Reservoir, located sixty-five miles west of Boston, Massachusetts. The paper traces the history and geological construction of the reservoir, beginning in 1939. The paper also examines the reservoir's structural benefits and its ability to supply water to the entire city of Boston. Other aspects studied by the paper include the reservoir's management by various state and local authorities, public access to the reservoir, and predictions for the future of the Quabbin.
From the Paper
"There is a long history of cooperation among those agencies concerned with the Ware River watershed, including the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, the Army Corps of Engineers, and the MA Department of Environmental Management, now the DCR Division of State Parks and Recreation (Executive pp). Maintained, visible boundaries protect the integrity of property, provide a frame of reference for policing and monitoring, and provide essential proof when a dispute or encroachment occurs (Executive pp). The number of MDC Rangers assigned to the Quabbin - Ware River watersheds has grown since 1996 from one to seven, and ranger patrols include pro-active surveillance of DCR/DWSP controlled lands with emphasis on popular access locations around the Ware River watershed (Executive pp). Presently, Watershed Rangers spend an average of 16-20 hours per week covering responsibilities on the Ware River watershed (Executive pp). The DCR has care and control of approximately 57 miles of gravel access road and numerous miles of non-gravel road on the Ware River (Executive pp). Activities that are dependent upon a good access road system include fire protection, forest management, water sampling, research, and ranger patrols (Executive pp). The DCR fire policy, in conjunction with better coordination between DCR, the Division of State Parks Recreation, and local fire departments, has improved fire response time and suppression efforts, and provides assistance to the local fire departments as directed by the local fire chief, usually for mop up operations (Executive pp). At present, twenty-three DCR employees are certified and available to participate in fire suppression operations (Executive pp)."
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The Chaos Theory, 2005.
This paper discusses the possibility of more accurately forecasting weather through the application of Edward Lorenz' chaos theory as based on James Gleick's book "Chaos: Making a New Science".
2,315 words (approx. 9.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 71.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that James Gleick in his book "Chaos: Making a New Science" reports the work of meteorologist and pioneer of the chaos theory, Edward Lorenz, to computerize the forecasting of weather based on physical laws. The author points out that Gleick explains, even though the straight-forward mathematical attempt by Lorenz to find weather averages was a "failure", Lorenz discovered that the phenomenon of climate instability was related to the chaos theory. The paper relates that Lorenz' two non-linear discoveries are (1) that models of chaotic systems have an exquisitely sensitive dependence on initial dependence called the butterfly effect and (2) that even simple systems can show complex, chaotic behavior proving that the "clockwork" universe doesn't exist.
Table of Contents
Gleick's Belief of the Possibility to Forecast Weather
The Butterfly Effect
Nonlinear and Linear Systems
Similar to Predicting the Motions of Planets
Link between Aperiodic Behavior and Unpredictable Behavior
Thermal Convection
From the Paper
"The very act of predicting weather is "fragile" when it comes to computer modeling, even though the data may be "reasonable trustworthy" and the laws of science are "purely physical" (20). But the computer modeling of weather patterns and air movement and temperatures and all the other ingredients that go into the stew, are only good for a day or two; "beyond two or three days the world's best forecasts" are / were speculative, and "beyond six or seven," Gleick writes, "they were worthless." Why were they worthless? "The Butterfly Effect was the reason.""
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Lightning and the Electrostatic Phenomena, 2006.
This paper details the scientific premise behind lightning and electricity.
1,002 words (approx. 4.0 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the positive and negative nature of electricity, which was first identified by Benjamin Franklin. This paper details the basics of lightning, which is a natural occurrence, generated through the two interactive processes of tribo-electricity and electrostatic induction. This paper delves into how thunder clouds are formed by ice and water. This paper also contains an illustration, detailing the origins of lightning, as well as a table listing the dielectric constants of various insulators, relevant to this particular topic.
From the Paper
"In a thunder cloud, the two dissimilar materials are ice and liquid water. Most thunderclouds' bottoms are at about 5km above Earth's surface, where it is usually sufficiently cold to freeze any liquid water. Powerful winds circulate up and down the interior of a thunderstorm, bearing up small drops of freezing water which collide with descending hail stones. Even though these two objects are made from water, the fact that one is large and solidly frozen while one is small and only partially frozen means that they occupy different positions on the tribolectric scale. The hail stones tend to become negatively charged and the smaller particles positively so. The negative charge accumulates at the base of the thunderstorm, and the positive at its top. In essence, thunderstorms act like immense Van de Graaff generators."
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Tornadoes and the Damage they Cause, 2006.
This paper analyzes the impact of atmospheric phenomenons while primarily focusing on the causes and effects of tornadoes.
1,932 words (approx. 7.7 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 61.95
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Abstract
The writer of this paper introduces, discusses and analyzes the effects of tornadoes, one of the deadliest atmospheric conditions known to man. This paper also details the event of May 30, 1998 in which a tornado hit the small town of Spencer, North Dakota. This paper examines the differences between tornadoes, hurricanes and cyclones. Tornadoes differ from hurricanes in that they form over land, while hurricanes form over water. This paper explores how tornadoes develop as well as the atmospheric conditions that must occur to form tornadoes, including vast thermal instability, high humidity and the meeting of warm, moist air at low levels with cooler, drier air above. The writer also examines a recent trend, called storm chasing which has become a popular, recreational sport. Professional storm chasers include meteorologists and scientists who study storms to try to discover how to predict them earlier and understand just how they form.
From the Paper
"The National Weather Service (NWS) does have certain criteria that indicate certain weather patterns that spawn tornadoes. When these patterns occur, the NWS does issue "tornado watches," which can be upgraded to tornado warnings if the conditions persist or intensify. A warning tells people that a tornado may be imminent and they should take shelter immediately. Experts recommend that small, interior rooms are the best for shelter in the event of a tornado. Basements are good, but people should stay away from windows in any part of the house. Hiding under a heavy piece of furniture can also be a good idea. People are more educated about tornadoes than they were, and so they are better at protecting themselves when tornadoes strike. Many large cities have underground tornado shelters that help save many lives each year."
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"The Map that Changed the World", 2006.
This paper reviews and analyzes Simon Winchester's biography, "The Map that Changed the World," which describes how William Smith indelibly changed the face of geological science.
1,470 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
The writer of this paper examines the life and accomplishments of William Smith, the English geologist credited for creating the first geological map. This paper examines how Smith's maps shifted public perception regarding the creation of the universe. This paper reviews Simon Winchester's biography, "The Map that Changed the World," which summarizes Smith's life, his achievements and the impacts made on the scientific community due to his research. Smith's early work with canal digging companies and within the mining industry enabled him to become more aware of what lie beneath the surface of the land. This paper focuses on Smith's fascination with the earth, rocks and fossils, which led to the creation of his first geological map of Bath. Influenced by other cartography and on extant atlases, Smith devised special colorization systems for his geological maps, which are discussed in this paper. This paper also examines Smith's longing for more recognition than he was afforded during his lifetime. While Smith's maps were published during his lifetime, what should have been the high point of his life marked the beginning of a downward spiral, when many of his personal and professional relationships fell apart. This paper examines why centuries after his death, geologists still pay homage to William Smith, the father of modern geology.
From the Paper
"His early work with canal digging companies and within the mining industry enabled William Smith to become more aware of what lie beneath the surface of the land. There could be no better situation for a man who loved geology in the eighteenth century than being paid to dig deep under the ground. Thus, his professional work offered him a private pleasure and a convenient means by which to formulate, develop, and prove his theories. On his own, while he traveled as a surveyor for the Somerset Coal Canal Company, Smith observed how sedimentary layers of rock were arranged in patterns across the land. Somerset Coal Canal Company was not so much interested in the scientific implications for Smith's findings as in their financial implications. For instance, when he was first hired, Smith noticed how English villages rest on top of "a score of complex, broken, twisted, and contorted seams of coal." For Smith, his work meant unlocking some of the earth's deepest secrets."
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Theories of Indian Migration, 2005.
Traces the geological origins of the American Indian tribe known as the Cherokees.
1,121 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the geological evidence supporting the theory that the Cherokee Indians originally immigrated to North America via the Bering Strait, the body of water that separates Siberia from Alaska. The paper also looks at the scientific and anthropological theories of Indian immigration but concludes that the geological theory is not at all implausible.
From the Paper
"The Cherokee Indians were heirchial with each man's place being determined by his persoanl achievements in war and in hunting. The Cherokee knew that the resources of the earth were finite and wisely used the gifts of the earth. In the 1978 book entitiled "Americas' Facinating Indian Heritage" stated is that, "The American Indians still live today in "substandard, overcrowded dwellings with minimal sanitation, tuberculosis, influenza and penmonia....the suicide rate among Indian adolescents is 100 times that of whites....alcoholism is common place. " While some of the tribes did receive government settlements eventually many of these did not. (America's Facinating Indian Heritage, 1978 p.396-398) The Cherokee people lived a balanced life that did not take from the earth and environment but left it as they found it in the Cherokee tradition."
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South Africa's New Imperialism, 2006.
This paper examines the role of the British government in southern Africa during the phase of "New Imperialism" between 1880-1900.
1,604 words (approx. 6.4 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper details the impact of the British government's involvement in southern Africa during the phase of new imperialism between
1880-1900, in which various European governments began to scramble for land in the region. This paper explores Britain's interests in southern Africa, which were heightened with the discovery of prolific deposits of gold and diamonds. The writer discusses the lack of investment into the local economy which combined with a policy of black segregation and the enforced migration of labor, created a situation of devastating poverty among the black Africans. This paper paper also focuses on the segregation policies of the diamond mines which set a direct precedence for the establishment of the apartheid policy in the South African government.
From the Paper
"An interesting feature of the diamond industry was the unmarketability of the gems. They were luxury items that held varying degrees of popularity in Europe at the time, and the responsibility for the successful sale of diamonds rested on the shoulders of London merchants. What resulted was an increased financial involvement between British businessmen at home and overseas, thus strengthening British private investments in the region. Politically, the British were unwilling to provide their annexed territories with ample governmental administration. Instead, they preferred to rely on the cooperation of the local white population."
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Energy and Human Population, 2006.
This paper examines the resulting effects due to the recent population explosion which include: Hunger, depletion of fossil fuels, pollution and global warming, as well as the various strategies available to halt these same effects.
2,366 words (approx. 9.5 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 72.95
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Abstract
The writer of this paper explores the negative effects and consequences due to the recent population explosion which include: Overcrowding, hunger, pollution, deforestation, global warming, crime and the loss of nature's bio diversity. One of the biggest obstacles, due to the increase in the population, is the depletion of the world's fossil fuel resources. The writer stresses the need for stricter environmental guidelines as well as birth rate control regulations. This paper defines the earth's depleting fossil fuel as a broad term for three sources of energy: Petroleum, natural gas and coal. All three were formed millions of years ago during the age of dinosaurs, hence the name fossil fuels. The energy comes from decomposed plant and animal matter. Once these fuels are depleted they cannot be renewed. This paper examines the benefits to the environment in utilizing renewable energy as an alternative to the earth's dwindling fossil fuel reserves. The paper also details various environmentally sound strategies that would aid in preserving the earth's remaining resources.
From the Paper
"Fossil fuel is a broad term for three sources of energy: petroleum, natural gas, and coal. All three were formed millions of years ago during the age of dinosaurs-hence the name fossil fuels. The energy comes from decomposed plant and animal matter. Energy Quest, a major educational service on the World Wide Web describes the origin of fossil fuels: When plants and dinosaurs and other ancient creatures died, they decomposed and became buried, layer upon layer under the ground. It took millions of years to form these layers into a hard, black colored rock-like substance called coal; a thick liquid called oil or petroleum, and natural gas. Petroleum and natural gas are extracted from deep deposits below the Earth's surface."
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Alabama's Forests, 2006.
A look at implications for the future of forest management on NIPF (Non-Industrial Private Forest) lands.
2,193 words (approx. 8.8 pages), 15 sources, MLA, $ 68.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the issues surrounding the shortages of timber that have been caused and are continuing to happen from NIPF (Non- Industrial Private Forest) lands. The author looks at studies that indicate the demand for timber will overtake supply sometime before 2020, highlighting the areas of the study in different counties in Alabama. The paper centers on the NIPF land owners mismanagement of forests causing shortages of timber. In conclusion, the author states that NIPF landowners could contribute significantly to help alleviate the predicted timber shortages but based on the studies mentioned in the paper, it is unlikely that they will be motivated to use their land for timber production despite incentive programs that have been successful in establishing a replanting program. In the author's opinion, the NIPF landowners prefer to decide themselves how to use their lands and financial gain is not always the leading factor.
From the Paper
"Royer conducted many studies on the decision process used by owners of NIPF land. He stated that "Conventional wisdom in forestry holds that landowner behavior, if left unfettered or unencouraged, can and will lead to shortages of timber or increases in the relative prices of stumpage," (Royer, 1979a, in Cubbage and Snider, p. 2). The US forestry service projects that from 1991 to 2010, pulp production will increase by 16%. However, the production of stock panels will increase 33%, nearly twice that rate (Cubbage, 1997). In addition, hardwood removals are expected to increase by 59% in the same time period. Estimates using the Southern Regional Timber Supply model (SERTS) predicts increases of timber removals to increase 39% for hardwoods and 24% for softwoods (Cubbage, 1997). Using this same model, without adjusting for inflation, prices for softwoods are projected to experience 200% increases and Hardwood prices are expected top increase 343% between 1990 and 2020."
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The 1995 Earthquake in Kobe, Japan, 2006.
Explains why the typical construction used for Japanese homes was insufficient to withstand the force of the 1995 earthquake in Kobe, Japan.
998 words (approx. 4.0 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
This paper begins with a description of the destruction caused by the 1995 earthquake in Kobe, Japan and then takes a look at why the region suffered such extensive damage. The paper describes how the traditional Japanese home is constructed as well as how commercial buildings and transportation-related structures are typically constructed and explains why these structures could not withstand the force of the earthquake. The paper also points out the need to adopt newer methods of construction in order to make the homes and buildings safer and more capable of withstanding earthquakes.
From the Paper
"In 1990, the Japanese Meteorological Agency made a list of 18 regions that experienced seismic activity of less than 3 on the Richter scale. The regions on this list were considered "earthquake-proof". On January 17, 1995, to the surprise of the researchers involved, Kobe, Japan, one of the locations on the safe list, was struck by one of the most severe earthquakes known to mankind at 5:46 a.m. (Japanese Standard Time) (See Figures 1 &2). The magnitude of this earthquake measured 6.9 on the Richter scale and 7.2 on the Japanese Meteorological Agency scale. As a result of this earthquake, 5470 people were killed, 33,000 more were injured and a total of 310,000 local residents were left homeless. Water mains and gas lines were badly damaged. Survivors of the earthquake were left without many of the essentials for everyday life. Eventually, citizens were informed that they could be without water and gas systems for two months or more. Several larger structures including transportation systems, office buildings, and bridges were also damaged during the earthquake (Figure 3). As of April 22, 1995, $110 billion had been spent trying to restore Kobe to livable conditions. "
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Tsunami, 2005.
This paper discusses tsunami or seismic sea waves and their history.
1,380 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that tsunami, powerful force of nature, is the term for a seismic sea wave generated by an undersea earthquake and an undersea landslide or volcanic eruption. Hurricanes and cyclones also can cause tsunamis, which are called storm surges. The author points out that in Japan, which has one of the most populated coastal regions in the world and a long history of earthquake activity, tsunamis have destroyed entire coastal communities. The paper discusses at length the most lethal tsunami ever recorded preceded, which the eruption of Krakato in 1883, on the island of Krakatoa in the Sunda Stratis between Sumatra and Java.
From the Paper
"Today, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, located in Honolulu and administered by the U.S. National Weather Service, tries to save lives and safeguard property from tsunami by monitoring seismometers and tide gauges throughout the Pacific. A major quake anywhere in this region rings warning bells and geophysicists scurry to decipher the quakes location and size. If they decide that the quakes generate tsunami, they then will issue a "tsunami watch" to all member nations it the Pacific, including (last but not least) Japan. When observers or instruments actually detect tsunami waves that "watch" becomes an official warning., and is updated as waves proceed."
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Plate Tectonics, Fault Lines and Fault Line Movement, 2006.
An analysis of how plate tectonics have and will affect the California coast.
2,275 words (approx. 9.1 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 70.95
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Abstract
This paper studies how plate tectonics and fault line movement are impacting the shape of the California coastline. The paper begins with a discussion of how plate tectonics have changed the earth's surface, including through earthquakes. Then the paper turns to one of the most famous major fault lines, the San Andreas fault. The paper examines its historical, current and future influence on California, such as the major earthquakes of the 1800s and 1900s. The paper concludes with a discussion of other fault lines, including active and inactive ones.
From the Paper
"Plate tectonics is responsible for the building of mountain ranges, the separation of continents through creation of new crust when the seafloor spreads as new lithospheric material pushes out of rifts on the ocean floor, and for earthquakes and volcanic activity (including the creation of volcanic islands and mountain ranges). The regions where the action of plate tectonics is most discernible is where adjoining tectonic plates are most active: pressing into each other, sliding over or under each other, sliding past each other. This activity usually takes place at a geologic pace--that is, so slowly that it escapes the notice of short-lived creatures such as human beings. Humans are unlikely to see mountain ranges forming or continents drifting apart. When two great tectonic plates, such as the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate, move relative to each other along the Pacific coast at an average rate of 2 inches a year, who would notice? But the these gigantic plates do not move only by drifting or creeping at such an imperceptible pace. As they mash into each other, portions of their adjoining edges get hung up or frozen in place for years at a time, even for centuries or thousands of years. The pressure on these junctures finally gives way as much larger movements which humans perceive (can hardly ignore!) as earthquakes."
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