Abstract This paper discusses John von Neumann's contributions to the fields of quantum physics, functional analysis, set theory, economics, computer science, numerical analysis, hydrodynamics, statistics and other mathematical fields. The paper also discusses his contribution to the creation of the hydrogen bomb. It goes on to describe some of his most influential achievements.
From the Paper "John Von Neumann inarguably contributed a wealth of knowledge to the development of computers, and without his contributions the face of technology today would be primitively underdeveloped. However, Neumann may have canceled out the "good" he did in an act of self-fulfilling equivalent exchange with his work in the realms of math and science with the contributions he made to warfare and massive weaponry. The name Von Neumann is associated as much with the Atomic Bomb as it is with computer programs (Wilson), and Neumann may have had even more devastating projects on the horizon at the time of his unexpected death from cancer. During the Second World War, von Neumann worked as a consulted to both armed forces and civilian agencies that were involved in wartime projects. Neumann's genius was in high demand, and he was able to design an implosion method for bringing nuclear fuel to explosion, as well as playing an integral part in the development of the hydrogen bomb. (Cabrera) According to one of Neumann's biographers, "It has been stated that von Neumann's electronic computer hastened the hydrogen bomb explosion on November 1, 1952." (Bochner)"
Abstract A discussion regarding the world's current dependence upon fossil fuels as the primary source of energy. The paper discusses other alternative types of energy such as wind power, solar power, nuclear power and natural gas.
From the Paper "Safe, efficient, reliable, and less environmentally damaging than traditional energy resources, natural gas is generally perceived as the most likely choice for the near future. Natural gas utilizes both a steam and gas cycle to generate power, and therefore, releases far fewer greenhouse gases into the atmosphere than coal or oil. But, "Even though air pollution concerns are much lower with gas fired plants, there are other environmental concerns including water use and water pollution. Combined cycle plants use about 10 million gallons of water per day, consuming 7 million and putting 3 million gallons back into nearby rivers," (Power Frontiers). Nevertheless, natural gas does contribute to global warming--less so than other methods but more so than nuclear energy. Both are comparably cheap and sustainable, but natural gas is considered to be safer to the public. All things considered, natural gas is economically viable, relatively safe, relatively clean, and sustainable: it poses the most realistic option for electric companies with its most serious competition coming from coal, and perhaps, nuclear power."
Tags: oil, coal, electricity, transportation, petroleum, petrol
Abstract This paper presents a detailed examination of the life of Thomas Edison and how he changed the world with the invention of the light bulb. The paper explores the importance of the light bulb and credits Edison with single-handedly changing the world through its invention.
Outline:
Introduction
Biography
Exploring His Inventions
Why He Succeeded
From the Paper "Edison's childhood was one of constant, almost relentless curiosity. It was a trait that would serve him well when he eventually went on to hold a world record for having more than 1,000 patents, but while he was still a child it sometimes caused him a great deal of stress. One example of this was the time he accidentally burnt down a family barn in his quest of experimentation. He was charged with the crime of arson at the tender age of six for that mishap but it didn't slow him down. There were also questions about his intellectual abilities at one point. Stories are told that a friend of his drowned while Edison was playing with him at a creek and Edison failed to show any emotion. In addition he had a teacher tell his parents that he was "dumb" and would never be able to learn(American Heroes: Thomas Alva Edisonhttp://www.mccsc.edu/~jcmslib/mlk/edison/biography.htm) . "
Abstract This paper examines how a star is a huge, shining ball in space that produces a tremendous amount of light and other forms of energy. It looks at their physical makeup, the different types, and the recycling effect of star evolution on the rest of the universe.
From the Paper "Stars have many variants such as age, size, mass, and luminosity, but one thing they have in common is that "about 75 percent of all stars are members of a binary system, a pair of closely spaced stars that orbit each other" (Green, 2005, p. 1). Stars are also grouped together in galaxies such as the Milky Way which hosts more than 100 billion stars. "Three-dimensional computer models of star formation predict that the spinning clouds of dust may break up into two or three blobs; if true, this would explain why the majority of the stars in the Milky Way are paired or in groups of multiple stars" (science@nasa, p.1). Clearly, the structure and formation of individual stars mimics the structure of other important elements of the universe."
Abstract This paper introduces, discusses and analyzes the topic of Albert Einstein. Specifically the paper discusses Einstein's life and his scientific achievements. The paper reports that Einstein discovered the 'Theory of Relativity' and is often known as the "father" of the atomic bomb. The paper further discusses how Einstein's life is a model to scientists and physicists today, and a valuable lesson in what one person can accomplish in his lifetime.
From the Paper "Einstein also helped to develop Quantum Theory, which "deals with the laws that describe how matter is built out of these elementary particles and what the forces are between them as revealed in spectral lines, in radioactive phenomena, or in the process of fission. The story of modern physics is in great part that of quantum theory" (Infeld 85). The use of Quantum Theory and continued study into it by other scientists eventually led to the development of atomic fission, and later, the development of the atomic and bomb. Einstein always regretted the part he played in the development of the bomb, as he was a lifelong pacifist. In fact, he co-wrote a famous book, "Why War?" with Sigmund Freud in 1932 that became classic anti-war literature. Another writer states, "The 'Why War?' letters, organized by Einstein, were written at the behest of the International Institute of Intellectual Co-operation, a committee of the League of Nations" (Dunn 112). Einstein saw the potential of harnessing atomic principles to create nuclear power, but always felt regret over his role in the atomic arms race. He spent the remainder of his life studying many different projects. One however, eluded him. Another scientist writes, "Einstein, who had already united space, time and gravity in his theories, certainly believed this and spent the latter half of his life seeking--unsuccessfully--'a theory of everything' that would combine quantum physics and relativity" (Mckie). That work today is evolving into another theory of physics - string theory, which shows his influence is still felt around the world today."
Abstract The paper discusses how Cheney proves that Tesla's work and pioneering research on rotating magnetic fields paved the way for the existence of the current, illuminated world. The paper asserts that Cheney's work is pioneering, because it rewrites invention history in many respects, stressing that the commonly embraced brand names of Edison and Marconi may need to be questioned by historians to give a full picture of history. The paper shows how this biography is an important reminder that history does not always give full credit to genius and innovation.
From the Paper "To list Tesla's innovations in scientific research would almost take more space than could be accorded by the length and span reserved for this review. Tesla's work and pioneering research on rotating magnetic fields paved the way for the existence of the current, illuminated world, more so than Edison's, according to Cheney, and gave the world everything from radios to X-rays. However, Tesla proved out of step, or out of time, with the need to establish close friendships in the technical community. He also lacked the necessary flexibility within his personality to make use of the structures of funding of American business and federal funding in an effective fashion."
Abstract The paper explores the lives of six of the most notable philosophers: Francis Bacon, Galileo Galilei, Johannes Kepler, Rene Descartes, William Harvey and Robert Boyle. The paper discusses how the discoveries and teachings of these natural philosophers in the seventeenth century was the beginning of a scientific revolution that opened the door to the technology used today. The paper shows how by means of experimentation, observation, rational and educated calculations these men managed to discover many truths in the world in the early 1600s that are still held to be true today.
From the Paper "The early 1600s was a time of scientific research, discovery, and innovation, taking place primarily in Western Europe. This development in science spanned many years, and was responsible in it's entirety by the brilliant minds of the era. These scientists were known as natural philosophers; however the work done by many of the scientists was an early form of physics, although physicists did not exist at that time. Natural philosophy was the study of the nature and physics of the universe from a scholarly point of view to explain the causes, effects, and events that occur. The philosophers of the time focused their interests on things that they interacted with regularly, such as astrology, biology, chemistry (or alchemy), and the forces of motion. Natural philosophy was paving the way throughout this era, though it was characterized differently as time passed."
Abstract This paper takes a look at the issues of science versus religion when trying to unlock the mysteries of the universe. According to the paper, religion and science are often at odds, especially regarding core issues such as the nature of time, the origins of humanity and the nature of religion itself. The paper goes on to discuss how, rather than be at odds with one another, science and religion should cultivate a shared interface, complementing each other in their mutual endeavors.
From the Paper "One of the most pressing questions in both religion and science is the nature of disease. Geneticists have been trying to unearth so-called founder mutations: one original genetic mutation that subsequently caused generations of people to carry and/or suffer from a serious illness like sickle cell anemia. Unlike many other mutations, founder mutations can be traced to one original ancestor. The discovery and study of founder mutations allows anthropologists to research the general patterns of human migration, providing a more complete understanding of history. Religion views genetic mutations in a different light. Many fundamentalist Christians, for example, might propose that disease is God-given. Yet if Mary Schweizer, an Evangelical Christian scientist, can unite religion with science then anyone can. Her devotion to fundamental Christian thought is not at odds with her scientific endeavors, according to Yeoman. In fact, Schweizer views science as a spiritual endeavor, as a means to discover the meaning of life, death, and seeming anomalies. Religion and science share common goals and objectives even when their theoretical underpinnings are in conflict with one another."
Tags: anthropomorphic, images, ancient, artifacts, questions, Stonehenge, civilization, new, age
Abstract This paper takes a look at the influence of the moon on the earth and how it has fascinated mankind throughout history. According to the paper, prior to the present scientific age the moon was considered to have strange and occult powers that could influence human behavior and events in a multitude of different ways.
From the Paper "The question therefore arises as to why certain behaviors have been ascribed to the phases and changes of the moon. The answer to this question in fact reveals the falsity of many lunar myths. One answer is that these myths have their origins in ancient folklore and legends that have been continued in various forms to the present time. For example, the myth about the way that the moon can influence human birth rates can be traced back to the ancient Assyrian and Babylonian beliefs which state that, "A woman is fertile according to the moon." (Carroll R. T. 2005) These views are therefore based on unsubstantiated and pre-scientific opinions of the world and nature and can therefore be seen in the same context as the belief that the world was flat and not round. "
Tags: sea, women, behavior, lunar, full, cycle, patterns, research
Abstract This paper discusses the natural tendency of human beings to lean towards God or some other force or presence in the world. The paper describes the infinite nature of God. It discusses this concept as it relates to the concepts expressed in quantum physics and then discusses it from the point of view of Christianity and spirituality.
From the Paper "If God is Mind and infinite, there can be only one Mind. Human beings are turning to it all the time for good ideas. It is logical that human beings would sense and want to know intimately the source of their existence. Religions and rituals have sprung from this natural desire. I believe that all human beings wonder at one time or another about the nature of existence. Some have more confidence that they can eventually understand it than others do, and that accounts for those who seem disinterested. They may have given up, or they think and wonder about God rarely. Or they have come upon an explanation for existence that satisfies them, at least, superficially, but doesn't include a concept of Creator. Even so, these same disinterested people are sometimes "converted" as a result of experiencing God's presence, and they end up turning to a whole new way of life."
Abstract This paper examines the quest to understand the nature of light and presents it as the greatest scientific quest of all. It shows how breakthroughs in the understanding of light triggered vital advances in science as a whole. The field covered is from Epicurus of Samos in the fourth century B.C. to the quantum mechanical understanding in the 20th century.
From the Paper "Science in the proper sense began in the eighth century within the Moslem sphere, and scientific experimentation became a refined process with the Cairene physicist Alhazen, whose primary subject of study was light. But the practice of science in the Moslem sphere was a short-lived explosion. After 300 years of fruitfulness there was a sudden abandonment of the whole thrust. The twelfth century Syrian mystic and polymath al-Ghazali initiated a comprehensive eradication of scientific endeavour from the sphere of Islam, something that can be said to have been achieved with finality within two centuries from the date of his death in 1111 AD."
Tags: dual, nature, electromagnetic, radiation, quantum, optics, Newton, Maxwell, Einstein
Abstract This paper examines the career and accomplishments of John Buridan the fourteenth century genius who imbued the philosophy of nominalism and applied it towards fundamentally groundbreaking discoveries in science. Two underlying themes are explored. First, that nominalism is the philosophy that opens the doors to science, and not the opposing stance of realism, that which stakes claim to science entirely. Second, that Buridan did in fact lay a critical foundation stone of Western science, even though he suffered rejection and oblivion at the hands of immediate posterity.
From the Paper "The contempt shown by orthodoxy to John Buridan displays itself in the fact that his fame is limited to a deliberately misnamed anecdote called "Buridan's ass". The origin of this anecdote can be traced to a commentary on Aristotle's De Caelo, but the animal used in this anecdotal example was a dog, not an ass. By turning the dog into an ass the whole point of the example is being mocked by the proud determinists of later days. And with it the name of Buridan is being summarily dismissed as a medieval eccentric who somehow had made a big name for himself in those ignorant times."
Abstract This paper explains the phenomenon of black holes and how the theory of the black hole evolved. It begins by defining black holes and providing a detailed history of them. The paper then discusses whether black holes are just a theory or not and it discusses the evidence that black holes exist even though they cannot be seen with the naked eye.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
What Are Black Holes?
History of Black Holes
Are Black Holes Just A Theory?
Conclusion
From the Paper "The authors further explain that at the Schwarzschild radius, the coefficient of the time interval in the Schwarzschild metric is zero (Hawley and Holcomb 1998). As a result, the time interval itself becomes infinite (Hawley and Holcomb 1998). Likewise, radial intervals decrease to zero, which is the definitive length contraction. These effects occur as a result of the choice of coordinates, and these coordinates are not ever absolute even as it relates to Newtonian physics. Nonetheless, the length contraction, time dilation, and other relativistic effects that are dependent upon the metric coefficients, are actual physical occurrences and can be calculated with the right type of instruments (Hawley and Holcomb 1998). In addition the gravitational field in the vicinity of the black hole is more significant at small radius than it is when it is at some distance away, and as a result light moving from near the object endures a gravitational redshift (Hawley and Holcomb 1998)."
Abstract This paper takes a look at oil as a finite energy source. The paper discusses the need to find alternate energy resources of both renewable and non renewable natures. The paper reviews the different sources currently available like hydropower, solar energy, thermal energy, nuclear energy, coal.
From the Paper "Alternatives: The drawbacks in bio diesels made environmentalist concentrate on cheap and easy to make eco fuels. Eco- fuels are touted as the free energy that is not only renewable but is also harmless for the environment as they do not cause any emissions. These eco fuels can generally be made and stored at home meaning that consumer just by incurring some cost on machines and systems can fulfill their energy needs. Today technology can be used to make convert simple products like turds into methane. Some of these technologies require only some efforts on consumers' parts as they are mostly do-it-yourself ventures. There are methods available that make use of hydrogen per oxide to increase the fuel efficiency of the engines of the vehicles. Not only vehicles can be run but using these eco fuels home heating and cooling and power production can also be done. Even alcohol can be used to heat up homes and to cook food. There are organizations and individuals working for the cause and they have developed different easy to implement techniques and methods to use cheap and easily available materials to fulfill different energy needs."
Abstract The paper relates that renewable energy is playing a large role in Middle Eastern countries' infrastructure building in the public and corporate realms. The paper discusses how solar and wind energy are at the core of their current interest in renewable energy, as such resources are available in the majority of the region. The paper concludes that the foundation of the Middle East region is as dependent upon the realization of a balanced energy system as is the rest of the world.
From the Paper "In the literature regarding the Middle East and the utilization of renewable energy there is a great deal of evidence of interest and even application. This is despite the region's critical interest in fossil fuels as a resource for change, as oil has been for the last 20 or so years for some countries and longer for others. (Cordesman 1997) Over 80 percent of the natural oil reserves are found in the Middle East. (Borowitz 1999) It seems that renewable energy, and especially photovoltaic technology and wind energy, partly as outsiders have been a big part of modernization in many Middle Eastern nations as a result of relatively new found wealth, allowing infrastructure building in the public and corporate realms, and the historical fear of the potentially fatal rate of decline of oil reserves in any one region."
