| Papers [1-15] of 100 :: [Page 1 of 7] | | Go to page : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 —> | Search results on "EARTH ABIDES": |
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"Earth Abides", 2006.
A critique of the novel "Earth Abides" by George R. Stewart.
1,850 words (approx. 7.4 pages), 12 sources, MLA, $ 59.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the George R. Stewart book "Earth Abides". The book deals with a viral plague that wipes out most of humanity, leaving only a few scattered survivors who have the responsibility for rebuilding and reconstituting the human race. The paper examines how the main protagonist, Isherwood and the other few survivors have to start, as it were, from 'ground zero'. After retracing the novel's plot and critiquing the actions, motivations and symbolic significance of Isherwood and others, the paper then discusses the novel's many positive reviews by literary critics.
From the Paper
"The novel is remarkable for a number of reasons. Firstly, it deals with relevant issues that pertain to contemporary society today. Secondly the work does not follow the conventions or stereotypical patterns of apocalyptic fiction. In essence the novel is a comment and a sociological and philosophical analysis of contemporary society. For example, the issue of racial differences and inequality were very prominent in the time that the novel was written. It is therefore a comment on society and the possible future of modern society when the main character chooses a black women for his wife. The book also makes it clear that he does not choose her for her looks or any other superficial reason, but for her character, good sense and intelligence."
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Earth Odyssey: A Review, 2001.
This is a book review of Mark Hertsgaard's book, "Earth Odyssey: Around the Earth in Search of our Environmental Future."
1,120 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper is a discussion and analysis of the environmental issues that are discussed in Mark Hersgaard's book, "Earth Odyssey." Some of the topics examined are nuclear technology, humanity's addiction to the automobile, the health of the planet and the affects of unbounded capitalism. The author also discusses poverty, and some of the reasons for the disparities between the richer and poorer countries and their populations. The author also poses several solutions to some of these problems.
From the Paper
"But Hertsgaard also brings up other ways we are destroying our environment, that beyond our own selves. According to Hertsgaard, ?the automobile may well be the ultimate symbol of the modern environmental crisis? (p.90) The world?s fleet of cars contributes ? between 20 and 25 percent of current greenhouse gas emissions; only electric power plants, with 25 percent, and deforestation, with 25 percent, are as damaging.? (p.94) And then there?s health effects: ?A study released by Harvard University researchers in 1995 found that 30,000 Americans die every year from respiratory illnesses related to car exhaust, while another 12,000 people die prematurely because of such exhaust? (p.95) Clearly, this is a point in his argument he feels especially strong about. And more importantly, it?s one we as a population can control."
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The Snowball Hypothesis for Earth, 2005.
This paper discusses the Snowball Hypothesis for Earth theory, which proposes that the Earth has a history of temperature cycles.
1,440 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the Snowball Hypothesis for Earth, which is a theory speculating that the earth has experienced consistent cyclical hot and cold periods, can be considered a possible cause of the current trends toward warmer climates and rising seas. The author points out that the theory encompasses tropical sea-level glaciers, distributions of continents, carbon dioxide levels, solar input, banded iron formations and early bacterial life. The paper states that scientist speculate that approximately twenty thousand years ago, our deep ocean waters moved towards the freezing point, but those water temperatures were not near the equator as was the case during the Neoproterozoic period.
From the Paper
"As we currently fear global warming, evidence may be pointing to eventual temperature shifts that follow the Yin and Yang of life. First, there are opposites hot and cold. The planet is merely going through its normal cyclical changes so we should not fear global warming any more than we should expect it as we should also expect another future snowball. "For the last million years, the Earth has been in its coldest state since the Neoproterozoic. We are now living in a relatively warm episode, some 80,000 years from the next glacial maximum, but some evidence suggests that each successive glaciation over the last several cycles has been getting stronger and stronger.""
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Why We Can Only Live on Earth, 2005.
A look at why Earth, as far as our technology can determine, is the only planet that can sustain human life.
1,157 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 39.95
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Abstract
This essay looks at why life forms on Earth can live on the Earth but cannot survive on other planets. In exploring this fact, this essay discusses scientific theories about the creation of the universe, how conditions on Earth support life, and how the conditions on other planets are hostile to it.
From the Paper
"The current scientific theory about the creation of the universe states that at one time all the matter and energy in the universe was condensed in a very small and infinitely hot mass. About 10 and 15 billion years ago, a huge explosion, termed the ?Big Bang,? took place that sent matter and energy expanding in all directions, and the universe was born. The formation of the stars (including our sun), the galaxies, and the planets are all explained by the Big Bang theory. This hypothesis about the creation of the universe was developed following the observation by an American astronomer, Edwin Hubble, in the late 1920s that distant stars and galaxies are receding from Earth in every direction?indicating that the universe was expanding."
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Inquiry-Based Education in Earth Science Instruction, 2005.
A discussion of a teacher's experience when presenting Earth Science coursework in the secondary school setting.
2,005 words (approx. 8.0 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 63.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the experience of a secondary school teacher presenting Earth Science coursework, covering the various teaching related tools and skills necessary for teaching science in the secondary school setting.
Contents:
Objective
Introduction
Inquiry-Based Instruction Defined
Development and Demonstration of Inquiry Based
Learning Activities in Science Instruction
National Science Education Standards and Grade Appropriateness
Classroom Dynamics for Secondary School Instruction
Assessment in Earth Science Teaching
Design of Curriculum
Example: High-School Earth-Science Activity
Original Middle-School Earth-Science Activity
Teacher Presentation
Lesson and Activity Objectives
Grading for Science
National Norm Referenced Testing for Science
From the Paper
"Earth Science is particularly complicated in relation to instruction in the contemporary classroom. This is because of the many political and social issues involved in this area of study which, in the eyes of many, is an area of religious import as well. Furthermore, the initiative to teach in an inquiry-based manner further expands the research and examination in relation to providing instruction in Earth Science. When considering a method of instruction it is critical to take into account the grade-level appropriateness in relation to the curriculum and inclusive classroom activities when planning the instructional lessons and accompanying activities."
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Abiding by the Soft in the Martial Arts, 2005.
An examination of the Taoist principle of abiding by the soft in martial arts.
675 words (approx. 2.7 pages), 1 source, $ 26.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the Taoist principles of abiding by the yin or abiding by the soft. Specifically, in Taoism, this means that one should favor approaches that are flexible and adaptive rather than rigid and forceful. The essay uses the martial arts as examples of this principle at work in human endeavors, specifically drawing on examples from kung fu and aikido.
From the Paper
"Abiding by the Soft in the Martial Arts On the surface, one of the hardest principles to understand in Taoism is the idea that individuals should favor the yin principle in their lives, or, rather, that they should abide by the soft. Conceptually it is rather counter-intuitive, especially in Western culture, which often favors strength and brashness over subtlety and finesse. But that is the basis for the point that Lao Tzu was making when he advised fellow Taoists to abide by the soft. It is the idea that all actions will eventually be dominated by the yin principle. Taoism is built on this assumption. While this can seem complicated to understand, it is nevertheless apparent in many human endeavors. Specifically, I will draw on examples from the martial arts to illustrate just how abiding by the soft can be especially useful in mastering those skills."
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The Origins of the Earth, 2002.
A look at the different theories on the creation of the Universe and the development of the Earth.
2,400 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 5 sources, $ 89.95
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Abstract
This paper is about the creation of the universe, and more particularly about the earth and its early development. To date, no conclusive answer has been drawn about the events of 10-20 billion years ago when the universe came into existence. The whole idea of the 'big bang' is still a matter of debate for scholars, and this paper will attempt to do no more than touch on some of the commonly held ideas about the origins of the universe and the earth. The paper will discuss a few of the events that followed the creation of the universe and the earth, and to explain events as they are currently understood. The format of the paper will be as follows: first, it will discuss the formation of the universe; second, the earth in some detail, looking at the creation of the oceans and the atmosphere; third, it will conclude with an overview of the topic at hand.
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Ecological Footprints: Sustaining Our Earth, 2002.
Explains the effects ecological footprints have on sustaining our country and the planet Earth.
2,406 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 6 sources, $ 73.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how ecological footprints, effective ecological tools used to help maintain our world, impose many questions in sustaining the earth?s life. Charts are included with the paper.
Defining Our Ecological Footprint
Dependency on Nature
Carrying Capacity of Cities and Earth
Comparison between Countries
Natural Capita: Effects on the Earth
Impact of the World Economies
Solutions
From the Paper
"The world economy has a great impact on the ecological footprints of the world. Every country wants to obtain economic growth to produce more money. But in doing this, they have to deplete their natural capital, which in turn, is not helping in sustaining this world. As William Rees states, ?there is simply not enough on the planet to sustain present international development trends using prevailing technologies? (Westra and Werhane ed. 1998, 115). So something drastic has to be done. As the ecological footprints of humans are already too large for the earth to handle, how can we accommodate the rising materials and rising in population, while trying to sustain the earth. Most analysts agree that it can happen in two ways: through a reduction in the standard of living or through the increase in material and energy efficiency (Westra and Werhane ed. 1998, 115). These two issues also apply problems, through cultural, economic, and social values. Especially in the more developed countries. To lower the standard of living would be outright rejected in the more developed countries such as Canada and the U. S. So indeed, most people agree that ?global sustainability is achievable only through large increases in the consumption of goods and services in both poorer and richer countries? (Westra and Werhane ed. 1998, 115). But still a problem arises. There will still be inequity in the growth of the more and less developed countries. It seems the richer get richer and the poorer get poorer. A consensus seems to be emerging though. They say that the needed consumption will work if there is a reduction in the material energy costs of goods and services. "
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The Geology of Earth, 2002.
A history of the geological development of the Earth.
650 words (approx. 2.6 pages), 4 sources, $ 26.95
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Abstract
This paper will discuss the evolution of the Earth, with a brief explanation of how this process was started and how it continues. By understanding the growing process of the Earth structural growth, we can get a good look at the geological proof it has to offer. In the many faceted view of the Earth's history in geology, the growth of the planet can explain many structural changes involved.
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Earth's Diameter, 2002.
An insight in how to measure the diameter of the Earth.
915 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 32.95
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Abstract
This paper describes Eratosthenes' calculation of the Earth's diameter, based on one assumption and two measurements, that the Earth was a sphere and that the two measurements made are the degree of the Earth's shadow at noon at two points and the distance between those points. It outlines how this experiment can be repeated by measuring the degree of the shadows cast at two locations either directly north or south of each other at noon on the same day and details the equipment required, the measurements to be taken and the mathematical equations involved.
From the Paper
"Eratosthanes used the city of Syene in Egypt as the first point. This point was selected because it was known that on noon on the first day of summer the sun was directly overhead. This was known because people observed that at this time, the buildings cast no shadows (York University). Therefore, the degree of the shadow at Syene was 0o.
Eratosthanes then needed to know the degree of the shadow at another point either directly north or directly south, at the same time of day. Eratosthanes selected Alexandria as the second city. The degree of the sun's shadow was measured and found to be 7.2o (HEASARC)."
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The Planet Earth, 2007.
A look at Earth as compared to the other planets in our solar system.
1,957 words (approx. 7.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper examines why Earth is the only planet in our solar system capable of sustaining life and how it is the only planet that has plentiful liquid water and an atmosphere that can protect the planet from the harmful ultra-violet rays of the Sun. The paper attempts to determine what makes Earth so special by using comparative planetology to understand what makes Earth a habitat for life and what makes it so different from the other planets in our solar system.
Outline:
Terrestrial Planets
Jovian Planets
Conclusion
From the Paper
"If we were to look at Earth as a starting point to compare the other eight planets in our solar system, the first thing we notice from space is the magnificent blue color and swirls of clouds. This is an inviting sight and is the first hint at why life is found on our planet. Earth has many features that the other planets do not have. Earth has many features that make it unique. Earth is made of rock and metal. It is one of the four terrestrial planets and has the largest Moon in the solar system. Earth has abundant volcanic activity because of its size in comparison to the other terrestrial planets. With the abundance of water and oxygen, Earth's atmosphere stays in balance and is able to continue supporting life. The liquid oceans help to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and the presence of a stratosphere helps protect the surface from the deadly ultra-violet rays of the Sun. Another unique feature of Earth is plate tectonics. Plate tectonics acts as giant conveyor belt that moves the mantle of Earth around, which constantly changes the look of our planet. Although Earth's interior needs much more exploration, scientists can tell about the composition of the deepest regions of Earth by using seismic waves following an earthquake. By reading this seismic data carefully, scientists get a better understanding of interior Earth."
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From The Big Bang To Life On Earth, 2000.
This paper examines the history of the Big Bang theory and how life may have been created on Earth.
2,545 words (approx. 10.2 pages), 5 sources, $ 77.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the Big Bang theory, and how the planet Earth is thought to have come about. The author discusses how if life on Earth was created via the Big Bang, could not humans expect to find intelligent life elsewhere in the universe, created in the same manner? The paper looks at whether humans have the technology to discover possible extraterrestrial life.
From the Paper
"Should we as humans expect to find intelligent life elsewhere in the universe? There are many reasons for and against this concept, but first we should trace just how our terrestrial life started. The beginning of time and the universe began with the Big Bang. This was an explosion that started the expansion of the universe. In the most basic sense, the standard model is simply the idea that every bit of the matter and energy in the universe was once compressed to an unimaginable density. In the big bang, the material exploded outward into the formation of matter that we see today."
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David Orr's "Earth in Mind", 2005.
This paper discusses the environmental issue of ecology education in "Earth in Mind: On Education, Environment and The Human Prospect" by David Orr.
1,125 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 5 sources, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the environmental issue reflected in the cross-disciplinary theory for ecological education within the junior high and high school levels of education. The author points out that, by understanding the problem of traditional disciplinary methods of education, a comparative analysis can help one understand the ramifications of separate fields of study for ecological school curricula. The paper relates that David Orr in "Earth in Mind: On Education, Environment and The Human Prospect" presents critical issues in cross-disciplinary education to forge a new cooperation between branches of science in relation to understanding the Earth's ecological systems.
From the Paper
This educational study will focus on the use of cross-disciplinary theory in environmental studies to help bring about a change to disciplinary methods within Earth in Mind: On Education, Environment and The Human Prospect by David Orr. By understanding this position within modern educational curricula, one can reflect how other theorists approach this growing problem and how it can be changed. Through Orr's perspective on education a far more cross-disciplinary application for ecology should be applied, reflecting a more collective approach in crossing boundaries within disciplinary formats. David Orr relates in his book the prime objective of learning to create a far more universal approach to education within approaching pedagogical disciplinary methods within different fields (Orr 113).
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Life on Planet Earth, 2005.
An examination of the development of life on Earth.
2,250 words (approx. 9.0 pages), 15 sources, $ 89.95
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Abstract
This paper is an examination of life on Earth from its humble beginnings on through the remarkably fecund Cambrian period. Among other things, this paper looks at the Earth's own unlikely beginning, the slow development of life on its surface and the perils it faces. Of special interest, the paper devotes a great deal of time to possible explanations for the recrudescence that took place during the Cambrain period.
From the Paper
"The origins of life on earth have fascinated and engrossed scientists for generations. This fascination, of course, should not be surprising: as human beings, we have an instinctive need to know our past - perhaps because knowing our past gives our lives meaning and context and informs our present and future. Whatever the case may be, the study of life's origins has long been one of the chief pursuits of the scientific community. With this in mind, the following chapter will examine the history of life on planet Earth from the earliest days of our planet, on through the period in which the first simple, multi-cellular organisms emerged, to the "Cambrian Explosion" and the marvelous profusion of life that it created. "
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Complex Life on Earth: Cosmic Accident or Logic of Evolution?, 2001.
An analysis of the book "Rare Earth: Why Complex Life is Uncommon in the Universe."
1,655 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 53.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a critical look at the book "Rare Earth: Why Complex Life is Uncommon in the Universe", by Peter Ward and Donald Brownlee. It discusses their theories of the beginning of life on Earth and additional theories to life on other planets. It challenges their research and data and offers other explanations and theories.
From the Paper
"Was the occurrence of complex life on the planet Earth an isolated event or simply the next logical step in evolution? Ward and Brownlee seem to believe complex life is unique to our home world or at least extremely scarce in the Universe.1 In addition to the factors in their Rare Earth equation, mentioned in their book are some specific factors peculiar to Earth that may have affected the development of complex life. Beginning with the planet Mars, W&B argue that the fossil record shows that the cooling Earth developed bacterial life as soon as conditions permitted. They suggest that this may be because the bacteria first developed on Mars, which cooled earlier, and that perhaps Earth was then seeded with these bacteria carried by meteorites reaching our planet after having been ejected from Mars by asteroid impacts. The low gravity of Mars makes this more likely, and it is estimated that ten percent of meteors ejected from Mars may impact Earth. A system lacking a Mars-like planetary companion might have been slower to develop bacterial life."
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