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Ancient Michigan, 2002. Discusses the mammals who lived in the ancient Michigan basin area. 2,885 words (approx. 11.5 pages), 12 sources, APA, $ 85.95 »
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Abstract Twenty thousand years ago, mile-thick glacial ice sheets that extended from Canada to the Ohio River covered Michigan and most of northern North America. It took more than 12,000 years for the ice to melt, leaving Michigan a glacially scarred landscape with the Great Lakes. This paper focuses on the ancient Michigan basin area and presents a brief geological history of the area. It discusses how the mammals that lived during the Ice Age, such as mammoths, horses, camels and saber-toothed tigers adapted to their environment over the years, with some eventually becoming extinct.
From the Paper "The sperm whale represents a prehistoric carnivore that still exists today and Michigan boasts one of the largest fossils from a prehistoric sperm whale. Even during prehistoric times, the Great Lakes as we know them now were larger and connected to the Atlantic Ocean. This may be one reason why the sperm whale survived. Today, they are found far from land in very deep waters, which probably had been there environment during the Pleistocene Epoch."
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Alfred Lothar Wegener, 2002. This paper gives a brief biography of Alfred Wegener, his theory of continental drift and other contributions to the world of science. 1,489 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 49.95 »
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Abstract This paper begins by providing an overview of the early life and education of scientist Alfred Wegener. It then discusses his initial idea of the Theory of Continental Drift and how this developed. The writer then explores different evidence for the theory and examines the concept of 'panagea'. The paper discusses reactions to Wegener's theory as well as support. It concludes with a discussion on his final expeditions and what he hoped to achieve.
From the Paper "Alfred Lothar Wegener (1880-1930), German meteorologist, Arctic explorer and a brilliant interdisciplinary scientist, is best known as for his theory of "continental displacement" (that became famous, later, as the theory of continental drift). Since the technological means for proving the theory had not yet been developed and the idea was a radical departure from the scientific thinking of the time, Wegener's theory was widely rejected during his lifetime. After gradual accumulation of evidence in support of the idea, the theory finally gained acceptance in the early sixties."
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Mount Saint Helens, 2002. An overview of the eruption of Mount St. Helens volocano in 1980. 950 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 33.95 »
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Abstract There are approximately 500 active volcanoes world wide and a couple dozen of those erupt every year. Humans have learned to live around volcanoes, for the most part. They have been avoided, feared and even worshipped for millennia. However, that by no means guarantees that humans and the environments that humans depend on, will not come into harm's way. The paper shows that as the eruption of Mount St. Helens in 1980 proves, even with advanced warning and strict security measures, nature can take its toll. The paper describes the aftermath of the explosion, where about 60 people and countless plants and animals died and it would be almost two decades before the surrounding area returned to a stable and comparative ecosystem. The paper shows that if two decades sounds like a long time, one need only keep in mind that scientists were actually pleasantly surprised with the rate of recovery.
From the Paper "It would be a while before the people could breathe freely after this natural disaster. It would be even longer before the world healed itself. Contrary to what one might expect, conservation efforts to help nature along were often doomed to failure. No duplicated ecosystem could replace a lost one. However, scientists eventually learned that the ecosystem was self-correcting. Some things had survived the lava, like small fungi too small to be thoroughly trapped and destroyed. Small animals often survived as well. Over time, when left to its own devices, it seemed that nature worked to preserve itself intact. For example, insects that conservations might think would be harmful killed many surviving trees, but the fallen trees provided prime shelter and a budding environment for other survivors."
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Ocean Tides, 2002. A discussion of the causes and effects of ocean tides. 1,333 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 8 sources, APA, $ 44.95 »
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Abstract This paper examines the topic of ocean tides, the periodic rise and fall of the ocean waters due to the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun on the surface of the earth. It looks at what causes tides, what are high and low tides, the different types of tides, the phenomenon of tidal currents and waves, the effect of tides on the coastlines and on fishing and how tides can be harnessed for energy. It also discusses other areas in which knowledge of tidal data can prove useful.
Outline
What Causes Tides?
High and Low Tides
Lunar and Solar Tides
Tidal Period
Spring and Neap Tides
Diurnal, Semi-Diurnal and Mixed Tides
Effect of Tides on Coastlines
Effect of Tides on Fishing
Tides in Gulf of Mexico and the Texas Gulf Coast Regions
Tidal Energy
Other Applications
From the Paper "The gravitational force of the earth at its surface acts in an inward direction towards its center. This force keeps the ocean (and other) waters confined to the surface. At the same time, the gravitational force of the moon and the sun exert an outward pull on the surface of the earth. Since the earth solid surface is a rigid body, it remains relatively unaffected by this "pull." However, the ocean waters, being liquid and less rigid, are physically pulled outwards towards the moon and the sun by their gravitational force. This outward pull is not uniform over the earth's surface since the gravitational force of the moon (or the sun) acts on the side of the earth facing it. Hence 'high tide' is produced in the ocean waters by the "heaping" action resulting from the horizontal flow of water towards regions of the earth facing the moon or the sun."
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"Isaac's Storm", 2002. A discussion of the effects which the 1900 storm had on the development of Galveston City from a business perspective. 1,251 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 42.95 »
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Abstract This paper examines how Galveston City was devastated by one of the worst ever storms to strike America on September 8, 1900 claiming the lives of more than 8000 people and the total destruction of properties. It looks at how in the book "Isaac's Storm," Erik Larson describes how Isaac Monroe Cline, a chief staff of the American meteorological department studied the progress of this devastating storm and how it had a destructive effect on the business climate of this once commercially vibrant city. It analyzes the effects the storm had on the development of the city as well its economy and industry.
Outline
Galveston City (Before the Storm)
Impact of Hurricane
Insurance Sector
The Current Economic Situation
Tourism
The Galveston Port
Conclusion
From the Paper "The impact of the hurricane on the corporate sector was not the least in any way. The Galveston economy was never fully restored or recovered from the terrible disaster. Galveston, which so far surpassed Houston in attracting business investors, suffered a big loss of confidence on the part of the investors. Oil business flourished in neighboring Houston and this lured the international business community away from Galveston. Furthermore the city which was serving as one of the busiest trading ports in the whole of the United States was experiencing a virtual trading dead lock. Galveston, which was a leading port in cotton exports, suffered a severe loss in that sector also. The greatly successful cotton trade was drastically affected because of the total ruin of the Galveston port. The city lost its position as the leading cotton trader in the country and this affected its economy in a big way."
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Canada and Glaciations, 2002. An insight into glaciations and their contribution to Canada's environment and appeal. 838 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 29.95 »
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Abstract This paper discusses how glaciations, huge sheets of ice that cover huge areas of land, have made significant contributions to many aspects of Canada's environment. It looks at how today, glaciers are tourist attractions in mountainous areas throughout Canada, bringing in millions of dollars in tourism funds. In addition, glaciers are a natural resource and people in Canada are able to harness the power of these frozen streams. It shows that without Canada's intense glaciations, there would be less water for wildlife, for agriculture and for hydroelectric power.
From the Paper "While glaciers are recognized as important additions to Canada's natural beauty, many say that they present great risks to the country . Scientists believe that the gradual decay of the southern edges of the Arctic permafrost will drastically alter surface water drainage patterns and increase the land's instability. As a result, there may be large disruptions to pipelines, rail lines, roads, and other facilities. The effect on ice roads could be very negative. Built across frozen wetlands and lakes, these roads provide an important supply link to many remote communities and provide access to large areas of timber in the boreal forest."
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Guam Typhoon, 2002. A study of the typhoon "Pongnosa" which struck Guam in December 2002. 1,403 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 46.95 »
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Abstract This research paper sheds light on the destruction caused by super typhoon Pongnosa in Guam on December 11, 2002 and its aftermath. Furthermore, the paper highlights the efforts of the contemporary as well as the previous governments and the necessary remedial measures taken by other authorities. The paper also includes a discussion on the impact of this shattering mishap on the tourism industry, which is the mainstay of Guam's economy.
From the Paper "According to the special reports regarding the hazardous typhoon, "with winds upward of 180 miles per hour, Pongsona descended furiously on Guam December 8 with the intensity of a Category 5 hurricane," razing homes of the majority of Guam's residents, setting oil and other combustible tanks on fire (American Red Cross helping thousands: 2002). The ravage evaluation reports by Red Cross assessed that seven thousand and nine hundred homes were obliterated with more than three thousand homesteads experiencing complete destruction at the hands of Pongsona."
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The Great Lakes, 2002. An examination of the geology of the Great Lakes. 2,397 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 73.95 »
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Abstract This paper discusses the various geological processes that form the features and natural resources of the Great Lakes and provides a summary of the geologic history of the area. The Great Lakes are a chain of inland lakes, including Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan and Lake Superior which stretch from New York to Minnesota.
Spanning a surface area of 95,000 square miles, the five lakes represent the greatest stretch of fresh water on the planet.
Outline
Introduction
Geological Processes and Characteristics
Brief Geological History
Geology of the Great Lakes
Conclusion
From the Paper "Observation of existing ice sheets and glaciers indicate that they invariably flow downhill from elevated regions (Cox, 1999). Still, the postulated, hypothetical flow of the ice of the glacial theory was uphill out of basins and depressions like the basin of Lake Ontario. The ice is assumed to have flowed uphill out of Lake Ontario, over the steep cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment, and flowed uphill towards the area of northwestern New York. There are many geologic characteristics of the Great Lakes, including bedrock. The geologic setting of the Great Lakes basins began billions of years ago, with the formation of bedrock. The foundation for the present Great Lakes basin began about three billion years ago, during the Precambrian Era. Most bedrock is made up of sedimentary rock of Paleozoic age (which can be up to 600 million years old). However, the rock around Lake Superior, the deepest of the Great Lakes, is much older igneous and metamorphic rock, Pre-Cambrian in age (up to two billion years old)."
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Global Warming in Canada, 2002. This paper looks at the dangers of global warming, or the rising of the earth's temperature, as it is affecting Canada. 653 words (approx. 2.6 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 23.95 »
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Abstract The paper discusses the gases that are involved in creating the greenhouse effect. The writer proposes a solution to global warming for the residents of Canada. The paper looks to prove how an expansion of the forests will not only add to the beauty of the country, but will also aid in the reduction of dangerous gases.
From the Paper "Due to it's vastly different climates from one coastline to the other, it is not surprising that Canada has become very interested in the problems of global warming. As a result of global warming, Canada has been struck with heavy heat waves, droughts, floods, and other extreme climate changes. All of these changes effect the lives of the nation in how they live, grow crops, earn livings and save money. Because carbon dioxide has been found to have a large effect on global warming, Canada must increase it's major sinks of carbon dioxide and decrease it's major sources. Research has shown that Canadian boreal forests are currently a sink for carbon dioxide. Due to the fact that these forests are still growing, they are able to hold more carbon, but as they mature this ability to store large amounts will decrease. In addition, if these forests continue to burn down or carry insects, they will become a large source of carbon dioxide, instead of a sink (Hengeveld, 519)."
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The Effects of El Nino in Ecuador, 2002. An El Nino event manifests as the appearance of warm sea surface water in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean near the equator. This paper discusses the effect this event has had on Ecuador. 1,485 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 49.95 »
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Abstract The writer gives examples of damage done to the country of Ecuador as a result of heavy rains. El Nino battered Ecuador harder than almost any other country. The paper also cites long-term effects of the damage, such as crop destruction and loss of property. The paper then looks at ways in which the country is learning to predict future storms, thereby allowing for preparation.
From the Paper "The Bermeo family had been driven from their small home and farm, looking for dry ground, unable to get into the overcrowded refugee camps. They had to swim to safety after a food swept through their valley and buried their farm in mud. Their pigs and chicks drowned and the smallest children were saved by climbing into a high tree until a neighbor with a boat rescued them. They said they were afraid of the passing cars and trucks, but more afraid of the water."
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North Carolina Tsunami Risks, 2002. An insight into tsunamis and their potential threat to the North Carolina coast. 1,152 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 39.95 »
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Abstract This paper discusses tsunamis, wave trains, or series of waves, generated in a body of water by a sudden disturbance that vertically displace the water column. They ravage coastlines and can be deadlier than hurricanes. Whereas a hurricane is identified weeks in advance, a tsunami can often strike without warning. It examines how scientists have attempted to develop a methodology by which to determine areas where the underwater geography might be conducive to tsunami and have shown that outer continental shelf off southern Virginia and North Carolina is particularly susceptible. It concludes with suggestions of how the relevant communities should be prepared and forewarned before tsunamis strike.
From the Paper "History has demonstrated to us that these landfall events are rare and usually precipitated by an earthquake. Rather than being constantly subjected to the randomness of geological whim, the Atlantic coast has only produced one tsunami over the course of the last 75 years. Although these tsunamis are deadly, their effects would be indistinguishable from the tidal effects of hurricanes that threaten to strike the eastern seaboard at least once every year. Rather than involve our selves in the costly business of timing tsunamis, the state might consider integrating safeguards into its shoreline infrastructure that would protect the local population against the sea."
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Red Tide, 2002. An overview of the topic and dangers of red tide - the blooming of a specific form of marine algae which accumulate in a small area. 707 words (approx. 2.8 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 25.95 »
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Abstract This paper discusses Red Tide - the common name for the blooming of certain species of dinoflagellata that have a reddish pigment causing the water to appear to be red when the massive numbers of dinoflagellates accumulate. The paper examines the dangers of Red Tide to human beings in the form of nausea, skin irritation and weakened immune systems. It also shows that Red Tide can be fatal to marine life, especially marine mammals. Finally, the paper discusses the effects of Red Tide on the fishing industry and the various things which are being done to try and control it.
From the Paper "Red tides have been completely unaffected by pollution, and finding a way to contain outbreaks has been a daunting task for scientists. Most recently, a Woods Hole scientist has been experimenting with using clay to smother the algae (Fairfield). This new method has helped protect the billion-dollar fishing industries in Japan and South Korea, and scientists are hoping it can protect the waters in the United States as well (Fairfield).
Until recently, the research has focused mainly on the toxins emitted, and the chemistry of the harmful blooms - not on finding ways to control the blooms (Fairfield). While the United States isn't a fishing economy per se, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration estimate that the U.S. will lose more that $1 billion over the next ten years because of the toxic algae (Fairfield)."
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El Paso Corporation, 2002. A profile of the El Paso Corporation and the natural gas industry. 1,491 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 49.95 »
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Abstract This paper provides a company profile of the El Paso Corporation, a leading provider of natural gas services in North America, which holds a primary position in every segment of the natural gas value chain through vertical integration from natural gas production to transportation, trading and power generation. It discusses how the demand for natural gas is increasing accompanied by deregulation and convergence of energy markets and the implications for significant growth opportunities for large, financially strong companies in the energy business. It analyzes the current industry looking at competition, rivalry among existing firms, the threat of substitute products, consumers, suppliers and trends and shows the potential effect on the company of competition and threats.
From the Paper "Conversely, with deregulation succeeding creating more competition, customers may switch to other providers causing a downward pressure on prices and margins. The threat to the industry lies if a plentifully available, cheaper source of energy such as wind emerges and from environmental concerns over carbon emissions and global warming. Globally, expensive investments in exploration, finding and production can be jeopardized by the threat of war or economies suddenly closing doors due to internal strife, change in ideology etc."
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El Nino and Business, 2002. A discussion of the positive and negative effects of the weather condition known as El Nino on business. 1,173 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 40.95 »
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Abstract This paper introduces and discusses the effect on business of El Nino, the name Peruvian fishermen gave the warm currents that would show up every few years just before Christmas. It shows how each occurance of the phenomena causes enormous damage in personal and business loss and causes flooding, property damage, crop damage and warming in some areas of the country.
Outline
Introduction
Thesis statement and definition of El Nino
Positive affects of El Nino
Agriculture
Decreased energy costs
Less snow removal, more jobs
Not as bad as previous El Nino
Negative affects of El Nino
NOAA results
Less heating costs in Northeast
Damage to crops
Higher prices
Affects to construction
Drought in Hawaii
Ski resorts lose income
Conclusion
From the Paper "The weather phenomenon known as El Niסo can both adversely and positively affect the business of a particular area. "In the 1982-83 El Niסo, floods did $1.2 billion worth of damage, and the following year's drought cost farmers $10 billion, but consumers in the Northeast saved a tidy $2.5 billion on heating bills" (Armstrong and Veomett 33). Since this is a reoccurring activity, business people should learn from prior events, and protect themselves from damage, destruction, and lost income as best they can. There are insurance policies available for some businesses, and they may be worth the cost in the worst-case scenario."
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Nature and Process of Magnetic Pole Reversals, 2002. An overview of the theory which predicts a reversal of the Earth's geomagnetic polarity. 6,075 words (approx. 24.3 pages), 20 sources, APA, $ 143.95 »
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Abstract The paper shows that according to recent research, the earth's magnetic field has shown signs that it is ready to shift. If this occurs, the magnetic north will point south and the magnetic south will point north and have disasterous effects on Earth. The paper discusses how scientists measure the magnetic field by tracking its history from a gigantic crack in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean that oozes lava. As the lava solidifies into rock, it records the Earth's magnetic polarity at various times. According to these records, the Earth is overdue for another reversal. The paper shows that prior to a magnetic field reversal, the magnetic field typically grows weaker and weaker until it almost disappears. As a result, the poles flip and strong magnetism starts up again. The paper explains how magnetism levels in ancient pottery indicate that over the past 4,000 years, the magnetic field has weakened by about half. In this century alone, it has decreased by five percent. The paper explores theories put forth by scientists that the Earth's magnetic field could disappear in the next few hundred or thousand years.
Table of Contents
Abstract
Introduction
Origin of the Earth's Magnetic Field
Paleomagnetism
Field Reversals
Theories of Magnetic Pole Reversals
Earth's Magnetic Field
The Main Field
Secondary Field
Remanent Magnetization
Electromagnetic Dynamo Effect
Magnetization of Rocks
Curie Point
Processes of Magnetization in Rocks
Magnetic Anomalies
Paleomagnetic Data
Morphology of Reversals
Field Direction and Field Intensity
Field Reversals
What Drives Reversals?
Core-Mantle Boundary Processes
Bibliography
From the Paper "Over the past three-and-a-half million years, the Earth's magnetic poles have shifted approximately nine times. This estimate has been found through sampling of the magnetic records formed by rocks in the ocean beds and in ancient lava formations.
Scientists do not know how or why the magnetic poles reverse for sure, nor do they know exactly what effect this will have on life, as we know it. Many believe that the magnetic poles of the Earth reverse an average of every 200,000 years, but the time between reversals has varied widely. The Sun reverses its magnetic poles fairly routinely: essentially every 11 years."
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