Posted on May 27, 2023 (Updated on July 9, 2025)
Disrupting the View: How Primate Behavior Can Impact Distant Cloud Observation
Natural EnvironmentsThe event I recently had an unusual experience that highlighted the unexpected ways in which our environment can affect our ability to observe and understand the world around us. While attempting to observe a large cloud formation 300 miles away, my snarky cousin decided to throw a monkey into my line of sight. While the
Posted on May 26, 2023 (Updated on July 9, 2025)
Calculating Planetary Surface Temperatures: Insights from First Principles
Natural EnvironmentsUnderstanding the temperature of a planet’s surface is a critical aspect of planetary science. It helps us understand the planet’s climate, weather patterns, and potential for life. The surface temperature of a planet is determined by a variety of factors, including the planet’s distance from its star, the planet’s atmosphere, and the surface properties of
Posted on March 13, 2023 (Updated on July 9, 2025)
Compaction in the Rock Cycle: Understanding the Process Behind Sedimentary Rock Formation
Natural EnvironmentsWhat is compaction in the rock cycle? Compaction is a critical process in the rock cycle that involves the gradual compression of sedimentary rock. This process is responsible for the creation of many types of sedimentary rocks, including sandstone, shale, and limestone. Understanding the process of compaction is essential in comprehending the formation of sedimentary
Posted on March 13, 2023 (Updated on July 9, 2025)
Crystallization in the Water Cycle: A Fundamental Process in Water Distribution and Purification
Natural EnvironmentsCrystallization is a vital process that occurs in the water cycle. It is the process by which water molecules in a liquid state transform into a solid state, forming ice crystals. Crystallization plays an essential role in the water cycle by regulating the distribution and availability of water on our planet. In the water cycle,
Posted on March 13, 2023 (Updated on July 9, 2025)
Understanding Crystallization in the Rock Cycle: A Fundamental Process in Rock Formation
Natural EnvironmentsWhat is crystallization in the rock cycle? Crystallization is a crucial process in the rock cycle that helps shape the earth’s crust. It involves the formation of mineral crystals from a liquid or gas state, usually as a result of cooling or evaporation. Crystallization can take place in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, and is
Posted on December 14, 2022 (Updated on July 9, 2025)
The seabed
Natural EnvironmentsThe surface of the oceans glistens in dark blue. It is hard to believe that the seabed lies many kilometres deeper in places and that a spectacular underwater landscape is hidden down there. For the seabed is not as smooth as the bottom of a swimming pool: On the seabed there are high mountains, deep