Archive for the 'Science Stuff' Category

The Difference between a Nova and a Supernova

Posted in Education + Schooling, Science Stuff on August 6th, 2010

Question: Why do some stars explode supernova while other stars have a smaller explosion called a nova? Our astronomer answers: That which differentiates the great cataclysmic burst of a supernova from the smaller nova explosion relates to the star’s initial mass prior to the explosion. A small star like our own sun does not hold enough mass to go supernova. Blue and red giant stars do contain sufficient mass to become a supernova.Antares in Scorpio and Betelgeuse and Rigel in the constellation Orion are examples of massive stars that will explode into a supernova. For example, Antares in the constellation Scorpio is so huge that if you superimposed this star onto our own solar system, it would be bigger than the full orbit of the planet Mars. Interestingly, these massive stars actually burn cooler than those smaller stars like our Sun. In determining the size of the explosion of a dying star, astronomers take into consideration the size and age of that star.
This is why our name a star program is so intriguing. You never know when a participant in the program has adopted a galaxy that hosts a star that is going to supernova. This event would be big science news! Learn more about how to name a star for yourself, a friend or a loved one at Windowpane Observatory, where astronomers are looking for novas, supernovas and asteroids headed in the direction of the Earth.

Windy Mountain Chances

Posted in Science Stuff on July 7th, 2010

The new reality is that it’s very possible to get high quality parts for a little or no money. Before you even start building your personal wind power system , you’ll notice that the modern plans are speaking to you in a simple and easy to follow way. Since windmill designers started leveling with the general public and coming up with money saving tips for them, the two shared a mutually beneficial relationship. A personal wind power system is comprised of easy to obtain parts that aren’t difficult to put together.DC motor that will run you about $30-$40 at your local hardware store. The job can also be done in less than a week!How much energy can they create?There are manuals that you can download right now that show you how to create a turbine for about $100 that can produce about 700-1000W of energy on average (enough to reduce the electricity bill in an average household by about 70% with 1 wind turbine).But the exact amount of electricity produced depends mainly on two factors:-Wind speed in your area-Wind turbine blade sizeIf you live high up on a windy mountain chances are your turbine is going to be very effective, even with small blades. The bigger the blades, the more energy a turbine can take out of the air.Denmark, wind turbines produce 19% of electric production, 9% in Spain and 6% in Germany. Large scale wind farms can produce significant amounts of electricity for population centers, while small, wind turbines and electricity storage systems can supplement individual homeowner’s domestic energy requirements as well. More and more homeowners are cashing in on this proven technology, sometimes even selling power back to the utility company!The one major issue with wind power is its variability. Transition Towns

Wind Powered Turbine in Three Easy Steps

Posted in Science Stuff on June 10th, 2010

I’ve done all the research for you by breaking down the process of building a wind powered turbine into 3 easy steps. Let’s have a look!1. A Wind Powered PlanThe most important step in building your own green energy system is to make a plan. You need to know exactly what you will need to do and which materials you will need to do it. This means detailed schematics for your wind turbine as well as the materials you will need to build it. Finding an accurate schematic can be rather difficult to find online if you don’t know where to look. There are many resources out there you just need to do a little digging to find the best ones. We need to ensure that we get a good quality product at minimum price so that we can cut down huge electricity bill instantaneously. A wind power generator converts the kinetic energy of wind to the electrical energy and which is then supplied to our house through the connecting wires and thus we start saving on electricity bills, once the unit starts generating electricity. If you’re big into doing things on your own, enjoy a challenge and want to help contribute to the conservation of energy, why not build your own wind generator? It’s easier than you think! And thanks to access to cheap, everyday materials, you have the ability to craft a piece of machinery that will generate power for you for years, not days or months. It’s something fun that you can do with someone, such as your kids, husband/wife, friends, or other family. Heck, it’s fun if you just want a side project to do on your own!- Your helping conserve energy! How great is it to know that your contributing to something like can benefit others? It is truly a good feeling. If you’re seriously considering purchasing some sort of wind generator or solar power system, consider making your own wind generator first. How To Build A Wind Turbine

Solar Powered Fans

Posted in Science Stuff on May 6th, 2010

As the sun starts to sizzle, these devices kick into action and provide a nice cooling breeze–for free!Another great thing about solar powered fans is that you can install them anywhere. This mechanism is a cycle, so after each process it will start all over again. The sunlight plays a major role in the process, however there are some factors that are considered very influential in the amount of sunlight reaching the solar panel:* Climate conditions- a bad weather condition like thick and dark clouds could limit the light intensity striking to the panel, so this could lead to reduced production of electricity. Alright then, let’s get down to business…The first thing that you will need to do in order to build your own source of green energy is to to find a reliable DIY green energy guide. Sure, you could attempt to manually research everything I’m about to go over but things probably wouldn’t go so well. A guide will give you everything you need and in one place making it very easy to find essential information. After finding a guide you will need to find a place around your house that will best suit your new solar panel system. This is very easy because all you will need to do is find a spot around your house that receives the most sunlight throughout the day.When people think of going green they usually think of solar energy or wind power. And along with these methods of renewable energy they also expect very high initial costs. For the most part these people are correct. It can cost anywhere from $20,000-$30,000 for professionally installed solar panels and wind turbines. The thing is, you don’t have to spend this much money to go green. How To Build A Wind Turbine

New Discovery Reveals Ancient Tree City, Archaeologists Claim

Posted in Entertainment Events, Monster World Of Fantasy, Science Stuff on April 1st, 2010

Science can be stranger than fiction. Sometimes, science seems to compete with fiction. Take the story of Atlantis, for example. For centuries people assumed that Plato had made it all up and then archaeologists began associating the Mediterranean island of Thera with Plato’s story. Thera had been destroyed by a huge volcanic eruption, much like Atlantis in Plato’s story.

Other odd discoveries have made waves through the years. In 2007, for example, Reinhard Van Gelder, a now discredited archaeologist, announced that he and a team of other archaeologists had solved a 100-year-old mystery. Their report claimed that two Rhine valley fortresses had been enemies thousands of years ago and that western fortress apparently prevailed over eastern one.

A doubting scientific community demanded proof, especially citing the need to produce some remains from the ancient inhabitants of the fortresses. Van Gelder spent the last couple years of his life trying to quell the criticism and salvage his reputation. His quest ended up in the hands of Dr. Ernst Voorst, who had participated in Van Gelder’s investigation of the two fortresses.

Now this week Dr. Voorst has announced a follow up investigation reveals that the western culture apparently lived in trees but — probably at the end of the war — it simply packed up its homes, buried them, and then left. No one seems to know where they went, but one grave has finally been located. The nearly complete remains of a woman dubbed the Princess of the Golden Wood have been exposed for scientific scrutiny.

Working in complete secrecy for over a year (after initial leaks about the project were quashed on the Internet), Dr. Voorst and his team (including French anthropologist Felecia Bonnet) found traces of ancient tree houses buried nearby. They reconstructed what they believe may have been a royal residence, perhaps belonging to the “princess”.

Pictures of the small golden wood region, the princess and her grave, the reconstructed tree house, and what is supposedly an ancient road have been released to the Internet. No one is quite sure of what to make of all this. Has Dr. Voorst finally discovered the proof that he and Dr. Van Gelder needed several years ago?

Very Small Wind Turbines

Posted in Science Stuff on March 29th, 2010

There are very small turbines on very small towers that may be able to be of use in urban areas or on smaller lots. The Future of the Wind TurbineIn September of 2008, the U.S. Senate passed a bill that grants a one-year extension of the renewable energy production tax credit. If passed by the U.S. House of Representatives the tax credit would be available until December 2009. Wind power is a viable part of the solution to lessen our dependency on fossil fuels.It does not usually produce electricity. InformationI am sure that you have seen these giant wind turbine structures as you journey around your country. They are dotted on many different landscapes the world over. You can miss them!The turbine tubular tower structures that are on wind farms range from 25 m to 80m in height and the rotor blades diameter can be up to 65 meters. The three-bladed turbine is used most commonly because it minimizes fatigue. It is basically a rotating device that uses the kinetic energy of wind to produce into some electrical force, used as electricity by our home appliances. Wind energy is a very resourceful means of power as its constantly available in many locations and is a good example of renewable energy for it can be replenished quickly and easily. As the global energy crisis keeps getting worse day by day, the need to increase the use of environmentally friendly energy sources like wind is more.Source: Wind Turbines For Sale

Algebra - the Queen of Math

Posted in Education + Schooling, Maths, Science Stuff on February 19th, 2010

Maths has many subdivisions and algebra is one of the most stressed subdivisions which studies structure, relation and quantity. Numbers, symbols, elements, and variables are all within the domain of algebra. Primary algebra is an introduction to concepts in algebra like solving complex inequalities, understanding polynomials along with factoring binomials, trinomials and polynomials as well as the determination of their roots.
Many beginners in algebra prefer linear equations as they are the easiest to resolve. An extension of linear equations leads to the simultaneous equations with two or three variables. As we progress further in the sequence to quadratic, bi-quadratic and cubic equations, they are more complicated in nature and harder to solve.

The Origin of Algebra

Everyone who is keen on studying algebra needs to go through primary algebra as it lays the foundation for intermediate or college algebra. Apart from addressing mathematical expressions, it also comprises of all forms of equations like linear, quadratic and cubic. In algebra, all shapes such as a circle, hyperbola or parabola are interpreted by equations.
The equations can be solved for various combinations by creating a graph. Lines are the product of graphing simple linear equations. Systems of equations can too be resolved graphically which is sometimes simpler. Two or more equations with the same number of variables are commonly known as a system of equations. It can be both linear and non-linear. Systems of equations with inequalities (example; x>y) when graphed gives an area on the graph which matches the inequality condition.

Matrices are one of the most significant areas of linear algebra which aids solving complex problems like the ones existing in electrical networks. A matrix is a rectangular range of numbers organized in rows and columns. The numbers in a matrix are known as entries. Various functions like addition, multiplication and decomposition can be performed on matrices thereby providing theoretically and practically useful mathematical solutions.

How to Find Help for Algebra?

Algebra constitutes the backbone of many other applications of maths, science and engineering. Once computer technology got in to the world of algebra, it has taken algebra to a new dimension by help solving century old problems within a matter of few hours. Algebra is not as complex as it may sound. There is a lot of assistance and tutorials available to help you excel the world of algebra.
Internet resources like algebra solver are interactive, give algebra lesson and aid you puzzle out many matters referred to algebra from Algebra-1 to College Algebra. If you have not understood something in your algebra class or sense that you have overlooked an essential mathematical concept, online tutors, Internet resources, and online algebra courses can allow you that extra assistance. Algebra calculators lead you over your homework with a bit-by-bit calculations and explanations with examples. You can improve your knowledge with the help of the interactive tools. By taking an online test, you can self appraise your mastery of algebra.

Solar Energy, Bio Diesel, Wind Power?

Posted in Science Stuff on December 19th, 2009

This is because it involves architecture and designed which incorporates skylights and a whole lot of windows, many of them large, particular on the side of the house facing south. This structure works exactly like your car on a hot summer’s day. It is an excellent heat source, simply because all that glass draws heat inside. Usually, heat storing materials, such as dark bricks, are used in the building, because they can continue to give off heat hours after sunset. Even a simple car battery can be used to hold the power generated by your solar power system. Do-it-yourself solar power programs do not have to be difficult. As long as you can read and follow instructions you can be on your way to energy independence. There is an option that you can rely on without spending hundreds of dollars. This is to make solar power. The sun is the constant source of solar energy that allows the generation of electricity in your own homes, thereby resolving your high electricity bill problems. Such has been proven to be a very good investment especially when you have to power up many of the equipments that are necessary for living, working and enjoying. From detailing the most inexpensive tools you can buy to do it all for under $200, to giving full step by step illustrated detailed instructions, to showing how to use the electricity to power your home, these guides are your one stop shop to begin to live off the grid. The development of BioDiesel fuel is another of General Electric?s great ideas. This kind of fuel would be a different kind of fuel. Unlike fossil fuel, but absolutely safe, this new fuel (basically being created by the use of soy beans, or perhaps used oil. Used oil such as vegetable oil for fossil fuel may seem like an incredible leap to you. However, the fact is that science behind us through time has proven that breakthroughs are not only possible, but likely. There are solar pumps and other types of solar energy collectors available, as well as solar panels, heaters, and many other different kinds of mechanisms for solar generating equipment, including wind turbines and many more devices currently being used in scientific trials.

The Algebra Benefit

Posted in Education + Schooling, Maths, Science Stuff on July 15th, 2009

Algebra describes relationships between things that diverge over time. These variables include matters like the relationship between supply of an object and its price. Mathematics is not an easy subject for many pupils. Many software programs are available with a mixed bag of subject demonstration so students of any intellect level can find the way that works for him/her. These software titles also assists students to comprehend usefulness of Algebra in real life as well as in industry arena. Greater functions used in algebra include Graphing fractional inequalities , Solving compound inequalities, Solving quadratic inequalities , Adding and Subtracting matrices etc.
Algebra is an important area but students can be discouraged initially if they do not work hard enough in early stages. This makes initial math skills important to help students successfully advance from algebra and go on into postgraduate math with authority.

How to Excel in Algebra

Helpful algebra software applications provide more than what can be found in the students practice books, such as homework assistance, interactive guidelines, games and a worksheet tool or graphing calculator. The most useful software have all of these components - ease of use and covering of all the topics.

The instructing tools are always useful for methods like text, audio, animation, video and games are put in to use. Schools and colleges require that students complete algebra courses from pre-algebra to algebra II. Important topics normally include: Finding complement of an angle, composition of functions, finding type of polynomial, determine if line is horizontal

How to Make Use of Algebra Software

Some algebraic software would only show results, while some other (much more suitable for elementary algebra) give away techniques and ‘how-to’ guides on mathematical concepts that are being used. Students mostly concern over the ease of use of software. Thus, the software better be bundled with value added options like high quality and timely user assistance, enclosed help options, and easy to understand math tutorials.

Diagnosing Mesothelioma Cancers Involves Advanced Tests

Posted in Health Issues, Science Stuff on June 25th, 2009

Malignant mesotheliomahas a few major symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas primary symptom is a lack of breath due to pleural effusion ” fluid being built up in the pleura, or membrane, encompassing the lung. The next most common symptomis chest pain because the tumor is attacking the chest wall. Additional symptoms include night sweats, weight loss and exhaustion.

The primary symptom of patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which begins in the abdomen, is abdominal swelling due to fluid buildup in the abdomen (a condition called ascites), abdominal pain, and bowel obstruction.

It is important to note that many of these symptoms may be caused by other conditions. Nevertheless, you should see a doctor if you have been exposed to asbestos and have experienced any of these symptoms.

Mesothelioma cancer is problematic to diagnose, because less serious conditions also cause similar symptoms. These symptoms include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest or lower back pains due to accumulated fluid in the pleura
  • Fever
  • Nausea
  • Hoarseness
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Coughing blood

One should not self-diagnose themselves. One suffering from any of the above symptoms should see a doctor and remain calm. A biopsy is the primary way the condition is confirmed. A pathologist takes a sample of tissue from the suspected area and examines it to return a highly accurate diagnosis. Biopsies are generally not painful.

Another option is a CT (Computed Tomography) scan. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner takes many cross-sectional images as it rotates around the body. Sometimes, the patient ingests a dye that helps define the picture. CT scans have an advantage over biopsies by being easier and non-invasive, and they are known to be an effective diagnostic tool. Beliefs vary whether a biopsy or scan is more cost-effective. If irregularities are detected, a biopsy may be needed on top of the CT scan to confirm whether or not the irregularity is a tumor, and if so, whether it is malignant or benign. It is also possible to diagnose pleural mesothelioma by taking a sample of fluid from the pleura and testing it for the presence of cancer cells.

Any of these methods may also be used to screen for mesothelioma. Patients who may think they are at risk but do not display any symptoms are typically screened, to ensure they are not at risk to get the cancer or to catch the cancer early. People who need to be screened include those with a history of asbestos exposure..