The Earth has a number of recognizable land masses, ranging from the huge masses called continents to the tiniest collection of solid matter. But just what is this unusual formation that we find in the warmer waters of the tropics? Basically, the atoll is formed from coral and other marine life. These are not islands, [...]

First of all, we have to accept that the world’s oceans are so massive, covering such a large portion of the Earth’s surface, that this amount of water does affect the air temperature. Men have long recognized that temperatures above land near the ocean are moderated slightly. Even the air temperature a few miles inland [...]

As with many questions about science, chemistry and climate, the answer to this question depends on who you ask. There are many people who feel that the ideas of carbon-dioxide problems, greenhouse effect and global warming are all voodoo or scientific mumbo jumbo.
Others believe that the increase in carbon dioxide (due to the human [...]

The answer to this question can be given in mathematical terms, though some people won’t understand these numbers very well. The answer can also be given in the more common terms that indicate the strength of a hurricane. This doesn’t tell us how much energy is released but it does give the general public a [...]

The simple answer might be, “Because they have to.” If flowers didn’t have a great aroma they wouldn’t be such a crucial part of the circle of life. Flowers have their great smell because this is what attracts insects and hummingbirds. When small flying animals such as this visit flowers they capture pollen or pick [...]

One of the simplest explanations for why glaciers move is this: Glaciers are made of ice (that’s frozen water). In a way, glaciers are alive and subject to the effects of temperature, sunlight and wind, among other things. Think of a glacier as a huge frozen river. We can see the end of this river [...]

Ask your favorite uncle why the ocean is salty and, if he is one of those uncles that wants to have a bit of fun he will say that the ocean is salty because there is a lot of salt in it. While this might get a laugh from you and your siblings it won’t [...]

When we consider “conserving energy” we are taking on a massive subject. We could focus on saving energy as an individual – the energy we use in our own bodies. We could think about saving electrical energy in our homes – turning the lights off when they are not in use. We could consider buying [...]

Technology is the answer. Scientists now have the assistance of computer modeling and advanced weather-tracking programs as the put together a forecast for tropical storms and hurricanes. Even with the most sophisticated, sensitive equipment, a hurricane can change quickly, in the most unpredictable way, leaving meteorologists stunned and confused.
Methods used to gather information about [...]

Most people have heard the saying, “Money doesn’t grow on trees.” This might be true. But there is a tree that is at least known by this interesting name. A money tree plant is a variety of bonsai tree that has its origin in the island country of Taiwan.
The design soon became popular around [...]