Food for Thought: Conditions Required for Photosynthesis
The first step in the primary production process is photosynthesis. It can only take place if certain critical conditions are met, including the presence of light and chemical nutrients. Temperature also plays a role, with reactions proceeding more ...
Something in the Air: Atmospheric Circulation Patterns
While Hadley cells are generally considered to be the most basic of atmospheric cells, there are a number of other air circulation patterns, as well. These include the east-to-west moving Walker cells, and the circulation zone located near the equat...
The Water Planet: Early Earth
At one time, Earth was a very different planet than it is today. Its atmosphere, in particular, bore very little resemblance to the one that we depend on for the air we breathe. It probably consisted primarily of carbon dioxide and nitrogen gas.
The Water Planet: Big Bang, The
The "Big Bang" is the commonly accepted theory of the origin of the universe. Most scientists believe this cataclysmic explosion took place about fourteen billion years ago. It is widely thought that the universe has been expanding ever since.
Sea Level Change Over Time
Renowned oceanographer and geophysicist Walter Munk talks about the rise in sea level since the last Ice Age. Professor Munk notes that the geologic record indicates that sea level has risen by one hundred and twenty meters since that time--an amoun...
Wave Prediction and Military Operations
Renowned oceanographer and geophysicist Walter Munk talks about the role wave prediction played in the planning of amphibious landings during World War II.
Wegener's Mistakes
Geophysicist and geologist Tanya Atwater talks about mistakes made by Alfred Wegener in formulating his theory of continental drift, some of which created doubt and skepticism among fellow geologists.
Wave Prediction and the Normandy Invasion
Renowned oceanographer and geophysicist Walter Munk talks about the role wave prediction played in the planning of the Normandy Invasion during World War II. He recalls that the invasion was actually postponed one day because of predictions of unfav...
Building Blocks: Origins of Life
There are many questions yet to be answered about how, why and where life on Earth began. There are those who believe that DNA protein-based life as we know it may have had its origins in the world of RNA.
Building Blocks: Role of Evolution in Early Life
The ability to adapt to changing or difficult conditions is clearly necessary if an organism is to be biologically successful.