Exploring Planetary Formation: Creating Rock Vapor in the Laboratory
Natural EnvironmentsThe formation of planets and moons is a complex and fascinating process that has been the subject of scientific research for many years. One technique that scientists use to study planetary formation is to create rock vapor in the laboratory. By vaporizing rocks and studying the resulting gases, scientists can gain insight into the processes
The Plausibility of Sudden Uplifts: Investigating Lovecraft’s Depiction of Islands in Earth Science
Outdoor GearThe idea of a portion of the ocean floor suddenly rising to the surface is a common theme in many works of fiction, including the works of H.P. Lovecraft. In his story “The Call of Cthulhu,” Lovecraft describes the rise of the island of R’lyeh from the depths of the ocean, an event supposedly caused
Quantifying the Human Impact on Post-Industrial Climate Change: Challenges and Opportunities
Energy & ResourcesThe Challenge of Attribution One of the most pressing questions in climate science is how much of the observed warming of the Earth’s temperature is due to human activities and how much is due to natural factors. This is known as the attribution problem. While the Earth’s temperature has fluctuated naturally in the past, the
Unlocking the Secrets of Isoscapes with Isotopic Data: An Earth Science Perspective
Geology & LandformIsoscapes are maps that show the spatial variation of isotopic ratios in a given environment. They are used in a variety of fields, including ecology, geology, and archaeology, to answer questions about the movement and exchange of materials. Isoscapes provide insight into nutrient and water sources, animal migration patterns, and the origin of artifacts, among
Can Bubble Wrap Save Water? Examining the Potential of Covering Lake Mead to Reduce Evaporation
Weather & ForecastsLake Mead, located on the Colorado River, is one of the largest reservoirs in the United States. It provides water for millions of people in the southwestern part of the country. However, due to a combination of factors including drought, climate change, and increased demand for water, the lake has been experiencing declining water levels.