Abstract This paper discusses the interaction between groundwater and seawater and thoroughly analyzes the condition of seawater intrusion in groundwater. It outlines the adverse effects of the seawater-groundwater interaction and proposes methods through which this situation can be solved. It also highlights various mathematical equations, which are used to reach analytical solutions. The trend of fresh water, seawater, and groundwater are discussed to scrutinize each water body behavior with respect to one another. The effects of seawater upon groundwater, contaminants, and soil are also judged. The paper also emphasizes some true-to-life examples of various countries that are facing these problems with their groundwater tables and taking appropriate measure ,such as implanting groundwater-replenishing systems in order to preserve their sources of water. Sources of contamination and their effects are also discussed in detail.
From the Paper "As ground waters are present almost every where, the interactions between ground waters and seawater rely greatly upon the physiographic and climatic milieu of the landscape. As a result of tidal fluctuation, ground waters and seawater are always in consistent communication with each other. This has given rise to various hydrological, engineering and environmental problems. "These include coastal aquifer parameter estimation, beach de-watering, marine retaining structures, and seawater intrusion fluctuations"."
Abstract This paper discusses the problem of the amount of herbicides used in the United States agricultural process. It discusses how herbicide users reduce the amount of atrazine applied to crops by mixing isoxaflutole with the atrazine. The paper then specifically analyzes the results of the test to determine the effect of herbicides that mix atrazine and isoxaflutole.
From the Paper "The results found in the inquiry are fairly straight forward and further or alternative explanations to the results are rather limited. However, as with any experiment, there is the chance that uncontrolled variables affected the end results. For example, the mixture used could have been effected by such variables as the weather, humidity, pressure or amount of light available. Any of these variables would alter the validity of the inquiry. For this reason, it is important to 1) control the testing as much as possible, and 2) run the experiment several times to ensure validity through consistency. There is also a possible influence of bias, as the people conducting the experiment could have an economic interest in the results."
Abstract The paper uses a qualitative review of existing literature concerning arsenic characteristics, regional and site specific geology and hydrogeology, and remediation methods, to explore the arsenic contamination of groundwater in Deloro Village, Madoc, Eastern Ontario, Canada. The paper also provides recommendations on more effective and efficient means of remediation for the site and similar contaminated areas.
Outline:
Background to the Research Project
Proposed Research
Importance of this Research
Proposed Methodology
Ethical Considerations
Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research Considerations
Revised Project Schedule
From the Paper "The Deloro Mine, in eastern Ontario, is a significant player whose activities has resulted in both surface and subsurface arsenic contamination of both soil and water, at the mine site, and off-site as well. Gold mining and smelting, with arsenic removal, was established in 1886, at Deloro. The health and safety of Deloro workers was compromised due to high levels of metal in their bodies, specifically lead and arsenic. Environmental problems were also an issue, including the air deposition of arsenic dust. This air deposition contamination was so detrimental that residents were unable to hang out their laundry during smelter operation, for years, because of the stack soot high in metals. In the 1960s, the Ministry of the Environment (MOE) Water Resources Commission found water samples to be high in arsenic. "
Abstract This paper examines the extent to which manure is a threat to groundwater supplies (which are a source of much of the nation's drinking water), looking at what farm practices lead to the current levels of pollution and how those methods might be changed so that the groundwater supply can be kept safe in the future.
From the Paper "This paper examines the extent to which manure is a threat to groundwater supplies which are a source of much of the nation's drinking water looking at what farm practices lead to the current levels of pollution and how those methods ..."
Abstract The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the scavenging of atmospheric organic contaminants from precipitation, specifically snow and rain. The paper also determined and quantified, from scavenging, the amount of polychlorinated biphenyls and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons present in snow and rain. Snow scavenging of organic contaminants was being studied because little is known about this phenomenon and a large amount of precipitation, which occurs in North America, occurs in the form of snow. By studying the various precipitation the researchers were able to observe snow scavenging, the gas scavenging abilities of rain and the particle scavenging abilities of both rain and snow.
Abstract This paper evaluates remediation technologies for arsenic contamination at the Deloro mine in Eastern Ontario, Canada. It first discusses a background of the site and contamination in the area. The paper then looks at the geology and hydrogeology of the site and the scope of the remediation project. Next, the paper focuses on the properties and health effects of arsenic contamination.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Site
Background
Scope of the Project
Geology of the Deloro Site
Hydrogeology of the Deloro Site
Motivation for the Thesis
Arsenic
Chemistry
Health Effects
Sources
Motility In Groundwater
From the Paper "Arsenic is highly mobile in groundwater, largely due to oxidation processes. Aside from ease in traveling in slow moving streams. It is highly reactive and when settled in sediments can be re-released into the water column by chemical or physical activity. Arsenic released into surface water through the break down of arsenopyrite can result in higher concentrations in ground water. Groundwater with higher flow rates is especially prone to highly mobile forms of arsenics. Organic forms of arsenic can release highly mobile elemental arsenic into the water by means of oxidation and reduction reactions."
Abstract The paper explores the long-term prospects of GM crops by looking at the scientific controversies regarding these crops' effects on our health, effects on children, their impact on the environment and the possibility of gene contamination. The paper shows how it is not yet clear if the biotechnological revolution is destined to be the magical cure for the famine-torn third world nations or just a temporary solution that may be ridden with unwanted health and economic consequences. The paper concludes that with the divided opinions as to the safety of GM crops, embracing the 'biotechnology way' as a solution presents a difficult choice.
Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
GM Food Regulations and Patenting
GM Foods (Health Effects)
Antibiotic Marker Genes (Danger for Children)
The Environmental Factor
Gene Contamination Conclusion
From the Paper "Biotechnology has advanced at an amazing pace and what was only a talk in the last decade is now already a reality. GM food has become a topic of heated debate over the last few years. The ethical perceptions and opinions about GM food are quite varied. Robert Shapiro the CEO of Monsanto feels, "There now exists an opportunity to create a genuine science of nutrition, something that has never existed in human history". In the UK prince Charles' opinion, "I happen to believe that this kind of genetic modification takes mankind into the realms that belong to God, and God alone" [Michael Specter] Besides the ethics of GM food, issues pertaining to the health, environmental effects, Patents and safety regulations and other public concerns have to be carefully ascertained. With millions of people in African (Sudan, Zambia, etc) countries facing chronic hunger and severely malnourished the prospect of GM food as a potential solution to the food crisis needs to be rigorously evaluated."
Abstract The Deloro Mine is a now closed facility that during its operating period, contaminated ground water with high concentrations of arsenic. The arsenic now needs to be removed to prevent entry into drinking water supplied to consumers. The paper begins by outlining the most common methods of arsenic removal in use today. The author then discusses steps taken by mine owners to prevent further contamination from the disused mine and technologies put in place to remove the arsenic concentrations from the ground water. Finally, the author examines new technologies that now exist and that could facilitate more efficient and safe removal of contaminants before making his final recommendations.
Outline:
Arsenic Remediation Technologies
Oxidation
Coagulation/Co-Precipitation
Physical Removal Processes
Chemical Processes
Which Technology is currently being used to treat arsenic at the
Deloro Mines?
State of the Art in Arsenic Removal Technology
From the Paper "As one can see, there are a number of treatment options available for the removal of arsenic in groundwater. There is no single best solution that will result in maximum results at all sites. These technologies are often combined to meet the needs of each individual situation. Treatment at the Deloro Mine uses chemical coagulation followed by sedimentation to process the effluent that will eventually be dumped back into the Moira River.
"The amount of contamination at Deloro Mine is enormous. Cleanup efforts have only been marginally successful in reducing the amount of arsenic entering into individual homes. One must remember that although efforts are being taken now to clean up arsenic in the area, many private drinking wells have been contaminated for many years. The state of New Jersey faced a similar problem with widespread arsenic contamination. They resolved the issue by controlling arsenic at the point of entry into the house. They now require residential adsorption treatment system for every individual home."
Abstract This paper studies the connection between agriculturally-based land pollution, such as from herbicides and pesticides, and contaminated water. The paper presents research studies and statistics that indicate that this is the most significant and damaging source of water pollution. The paper also looks at the impact of water diversion through damning for irrigation projects. The paper concludes by discussing the international ramifications of land-based water pollution.
From the Paper "Rachel Carson, in her landmark book "Silent Spring" was the first to discover the pollution and contamination of land as well as water by insecticides. These chemicals are absorbed in the earth, and then run off into water- lakes or rivers and streams, and eventually into the oceans. The most recent catastrophe on Chesapeake Bay which contaminated almost the entire shrimp and scallop crop was presumed to have been caused by a chemical spill which began a "fouling" process that was like a fatal domino effect. From the pristine water, of the Bay it then ran off into nearby farmland, not only damaging crops, but also polluting one of the largest poultry producing areas in the country."
Abstract This paper discusses the various issues surrounding the shrinking supply of groundwater (such as groundwater mining) and how we can deal with those issues to protect this vital resource.
Abstract This paper discusses the transformation of water that takes place through a continuation process referred to as a hydrological cycle, which derives its momentum from solar energy and gravity. The paper analyzes the various methods for maintaining an adequate water level. The paper contends that a comprehensive examination, analysis, and determination of the hydrologic and geological characteristics of a selected location are essential for the productive management of the water resource.
Outline
The Occurrence of Ground Water
Properties and Classification of Water-Bearing Formations
Darcy's Law
Measures of Water Quantity
Utilization of Groundwater Permeability
Water Level Measurements
From the Paper "The groundwater is observed to rest on the empty spaces of the natural elements such as soils, unconsolidated settlings and rocks. Envisaging the level of underwater is quite a hard task. It is considered by some that the groundwater is reserved in the subversive lakes and flows in subversive rivers. The groundwater is the underlying water beneath the ground that is fully soaked through the small outlets of soils and rocks. The groundwater is refilled primarily by the downpour and determined totally by the local environment and geology, which causes its disproportionate distribution in both quantity and quality."
Abstract The paper discusses how, as the Earth's average temperature rises, crop production decreases. The paper notes the significance of a decrease in crop production and provides a literature review. The paper shows how, in general, global warming has a negative effect on crop production and the unpredictability of climatic change can also have a negative effect on crop production when farmers are ill-prepared. The paper points out, however, that although many crops will suffer, certain crops such as winter wheat seem to thrive in the global warming models.
From the Paper "Peng et al. (2004) explore the affect of higher night temperatures, from global warming, on rice production. They evaluated these effects by a direct study on the effects of global warming on crop production, by analyzing weather data at the International Rice Research Institute Farm, from the years 1979 to 2003. They examined temperature trends and how they related to rice yield, by using the data obtained from irrigated field experiments, that were conducted at the International Rice Research Institute Farm. The researchers found that rice production fell 10 percent for each 1o C increase in minimum temperature. However, maximum temperature had an insignificant effect on crop yield. Therefore the researchers concluded that there was direct evidence that rice yields decreased with increased nighttime temperature associated with global warming."
Tags: climate, change, rice, wheat, maize, temperature
Abstract The paper reviews the work "A Civil Action" by Jonathan Harr as a basis for exploring violation of E.P.A. regarding water contamination. It uses the incident of water contamination that took place at Woburn, Massachusetts in the 1960s and 70s as one that serves as a lesson in the prevention of water contamination. It lists the deficiencies responsible for the contamination, such as the lack of laboratory checks, lack of inspections of the land and water, lack of compliance evaluation and inhibited civil action.
From the Paper ""A Civil Action? by Jonathan Harr is a book that brings awareness to communities that might be unaware of the EPA standards against water contamination, and the neglect of concerned authorities allowing industries to carry out their illegal dumping of chemicals in certain areas. The incident of water contamination that took place at Woburn, Massachusetts is one that serves as a lesson in history that should not be repeated. This case of water contamination was believed to be responsible for claiming many lives through leukemia because of a chemical substance (Trichloroethylene) present in the water."
Abstract The paper provides an overview of the green revolution and its selective breeding that produced crops that were better suited to changing climate conditions and production levels. The paper discusses how these crops could help curb starvation but looks at the limitations of current practices. The paper then discusses genetically modified crops and their benefits but explains why this development must proceed with even more caution than the green revolution.
Outline:
Early Methods
Helping to Curb Starvation
Limitations of Current Practices
Green Revolution Crops and GMOs
From the Paper "As the world population grows, humans face new challenges regarding how to feed the population. This problem is not new and industrialized nations led the race to develop crops that were more productive, disease resistant and that have more uses. During the 1960s and 1970s producers began an intensive program to develop crops that met the changing requirements of society. This is referred to as the "green revolution." This revolution was responsible for increases in food production in industrialized nations, but there are limitations as to what can be accomplished through these programs."
Tags: selective, breeding, genetic, engineering, traits, food, production
Abstract This paper focuses on the damage caused to young children by lead contamination. The paper looks at where and how lead contamination most commonly occurs, which groups are the most vulnerable, and the physiological damage caused by lead poisoning. The paper also outlines what can be done, and, in particular, what parents can do to prevent lead contamination, and the actions government must take to help protect children from lead poisoning.
From the Paper "Lead is a serious environmental contaminant that puts our most vulnerable citizens -- small children -- at risk. Fortunately it is preventable if parents are diligent about managing potential risks. Lead contamination can also occur in workplaces, but children experience more damage from lead ingestion than adults do. At work led may be in the air or dust. Children sometimes eat paint chips from lead-based paint because the lead makes them taste sweet. They can also breathe dust or get it on their hands and then into their mouths if the soil is contaminated. Lead poisoning can damage the kidneys, the nervous system and even reproductive systems (ATSDR). The EPA, in charge of cleaning up environmentally contaminated sites, reports that over 1,000 of their approximately 1,500 targeted sites have lead as one of the contaminants (ATSDR). In children, some effects of lead poisoning may be permanent, making it vitally important that they be protected."
