"Wisdom begins in wonder" – Socrates
Category: Earth/Climate science
Isthmuses
09/30/2024
“How do we describe a narrow piece of land connecting two larger masses over water?”
Large land bodies may be separated by water. But sometimes a narrow strip of land connects them together. These geographic formations are called Isthmuses. Seattle is an example of a city on an Isthmus.
Inlets
09/29/24
“What do we call a shoreline indentation?”
Shorelines can take all sorts of shapes. Occasionally, an indentation forms that causes water by the shore to come in through a narrow channel. These become Inlets and are a major part of geologic systems.
Lagoons
09/28/24
“What do we call shallow bodies of water disconnected from larger bodies by natural barriers?”
There are all sorts of geological phenomena on this planet. The interaction between water and land produces its own subset. Small, shallow water bodies that are disconnected from larger ones by a natural barrier are termed Lagoons.
Lakes vs Lagoons
09/10/24
“What is the difference between a lake and a lagoon?”
Lakes and lagoons are very similar features. Both are semi-isolate or isolated bodies of water. But there are some key differences. Lakes are typically deeper than lagoons, are found inland, and have fresh or salty water. Lagoons are more shallow, found in coastal areas and/or near the mouth of rivers, and have brackish water.
Stormwater Permits
09/09/24
“What governs what pollutants facilities can release into US waters?”
Facilities release all types and volumes of pollutants into water bodies. However, if these are not controlled then it can lead to major ecological damage. In the US, this is regulated with Stormwater Permits. Stormwater permits govern what types and volume of pollutants can be released into water bodies.
Why Different Tree Species Grow at Different Speeds
09/04/24
“Why do different trees grow at different speeds?”
Trees grow by absorbing nutrients and other necessities like water, sunlight, and air. Different tree species absorb all of these differently, leading to different growth rates. This is Why Different Tree Species Grow at Different Speeds.
Why Wood is a Bad Electrical Conductor
09/03/24
“Why is wood a bad electrical conductor?”
Wood is a common material used by humans. It has very few free electrons, has a tight cellular structure, and may have natural oils and resins that inhibit electrical current. These all contribute to wood being a bad conductor. This is Why Wood is a Bad Electrical Conductor.
Drainage Divides
09/02/24
“What divides two different water basins from each other?”
Drainage Basins are areas that drain into a single point. These are separated by Drainage Divides, or the boundaries of drainage basins. Drainage divides are usually marked by the peaks of mountains.
Human Impact on Sedimentation
08/31/24
“How can humans have an impact on sedimentation?”
Sedimentation occurs with the presence of sediments. Human activity such as dam creation or infrastructure construction can disrupt the environment by increasing the amount of sediment in the water.
Isaac's Science Blog 