Sunday, December 29, 2019

The Effects Of Climate Change On Soil Moisture - 1406 Words

Climate change is expected to have significant impacts on the interactions between the land surface and atmosphere through alterations and feedbacks in various coupled processes. Soil moisture is one aspect of the climate system that may be significantly impacted by increased temperatures, especially in areas where snowpack contributes largely to soil moisture and streamflow. In addition to rising temperatures and changes in the timing and amount of precipitation, local factors such as soil properties, vegetation, and topography influence soil moisture distribution and streamflow. This paper reviews various studies attempting to identify how the mentioned climatic and local factors may impact soil moisture, and demonstrates some of the complexities associated with adequately modeling the impacts of climate change on various spatial scales. Soil moisture plays a significant role in the climate system. Evaporation from the soil surface and transpiration through plant leaves connect land and atmospheric processes through the water and energy cycles, and feedbacks associated with soil moisture-atmospheric processes affect regional climate (Hagemann and Stacke, 2014). Soil moisture distribution impacts hydrologic processes including runoff generation and groundwater recharge in a catchment, in addition to biological processes and nutrient cycling (Williams et al., 2008). In regions where snowmelt runoff contributes to soil moisture and streamflow, understanding the factorsShow MoreRelatedEffects Of Soil Carbon Sequestration ( Scs )880 Words   |  4 PagesIntroduction Soil carbon sequestration (SCS) is the removal of atmospheric Co2 and its long-term storage in soils as soil organic carbon, soil organic matter (decomposing plant and animal tissues) and soil inorganic carbon. Carbon is sequestered in oceans, geological landforms, vegetation and soils; about 75% of the carbon sequestered on land is stored in soils (Powlson et al, 2011). The size of the flow of CO2 to and fro the atmosphere into oceans, soil and geologic landforms will determine ifRead MoreIrish Famine Essay1498 Words   |  6 Pagesdistributed all over the world, and are obligate parasites of the roots of many plant species, including monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous, woody and herbaceous plants. It is a serious problem in nurseries of mostly all vegetable crops during warm climate resulting into severe losses in nursery of crops. b) Tylenchorhynchus spp.: Tylenchorhynchus spp. affect many host plants such as soybean, tobacco, tea, oat, alfalfa, sweet potato, sorghum, rose, lettuce, grape, elms and citrus (Anderson and PotterRead MoreMinimum Value And Maximum Soil Moisture Value902 Words   |  4 Pagesindicates that these months were drier in general. However, December had higher precipitation than June despite it being drier overall. 2. For June 2011, the maximum soil moisture value was 0.2857 m3/m3, the minimum value was 0.0548 m3/m3, and the average soil moisture value was 0.138763 m3/m3. As for December 2011, the maximum soil moisture value was 0.2894 m3/m3, the minimum value was 0.2284 m3/m3, and the average value was 0.240601 m3/m3. One potential explanation for the differences in the averageRead MoreEffects Of The Great Plains Region998 Words   |  4 Pageshave used different methods and models to predict drought conditions and temperature in the Great Plains area. The models and methods discussed include the Palmer Drought Severity Index, the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project, and the Community Climate System Model. In this paper, I will describe in fuller detail the three models discussed in the paper by Hoerling et al as well as summarize the paper’s conclusions. Methods of Prediction Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI) Hoerling et al first discussesRead MoreThe Drought Conditions Of The Great Plains Region931 Words   |  4 Pageshave used different methods and models to predict drought conditions and temperature in the Great Plains area. The models and methods discussed include the Palmer Drought Severity Index, the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project, and the Community Climate System Model. In this paper, I will describe in fuller detail the three models discussed in the paper by Hoerling et al as well as summarize the paper’s conclusions. Methods of Prediction Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI) Hoerling et al first discussesRead MoreWhy Wildfires Are An Threat Of Safety, Economy And Environment1567 Words   |  7 Pagesobservation, monitoring, analysis and prevention of wildfires. Particular emphasis is given to the use of new space-borne microwave measurements of Soil Moisture (SM) and Vegetation Optical Depth (VOD) which are strongly related to fuel water contents, and are expected to complement and improve existing fire risk indices. Sample results of a soil moisture and temperature based fire risk model estimating the potential spread of wildfires are presented for the Iberian Peninsula. â€Æ' 1. Introduction WildlandRead MoreThe Use Of Lichen And Its Effect On The Environment1501 Words   |  7 Pagestemperature, sun exposure levels, and the pH levels of soil influence the growth of Lichens. Their natural structure and symbiotic relationship with fungus and a photosynthetic partner has given these organisms the ability to survive such harsh and exposed environments. Their ability to absorb substances and minerals dissolved in rain and dew has also enabled Lichen to live and survive in such extreme areas, but this ability has had the effect of making them very sensitive to pollutants in the air;Read MoreFactors That Affect Soil Development1358 Words   |  6 PagesFactors Affecting Soil Development Studies on the research of soil have shown that the profile of soils is influenced by five factors interacting with each there. These are: parent material, climate, topography, organisms, and time. Parent material: This refers to the mineral material, or organic material from which the soil is formed. Soils will carry the characteristics of its parent material such as color, texture, structure, mineral composition and so on. For example, if soils are formed fromRead MoreClimate Change And Agriculture On Indi Impacts And Adaptation For Sustainable Future1646 Words   |  7 PagesCLIMATE CHANGE AND AGRICULTURE IN INDIA: IMPACTS AND ADAPTATION FOR SUSTAINABLE FUTURE Anupam Kumar Singh Department of African Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Delhi, Delhi (India). 1. Introduction India with its area of 3.28 million sq. km accounts for 2.4% of the world’s land surface area and stands as the seventh largest country in the world. India is second most populous country in the world with above 1.3 billion which containing 17.5% of world population. The size and populationRead MoreControl The Wildfires Of Alberta Canada992 Words   |  4 Pagesthese fires burn in old growth areas. Once the fire is burned out it leaves nutrients in the soil to aid in regrowth for future plants. After the fire Grizzly Bears rummage through the now loose and nutrient rich soil for certain roots that are apart of their diets. These roots are only accessible to the Grizzly Bear after a fire has cleared out the forest. Once regeneration starts, the nutrients in the soil allow other food sources to begin growth and bears start to forage for them. The cycle continues

Saturday, December 21, 2019

Obesity Is Not A Disease - 1182 Words

Obesity has been measured or defined in various ways. Many researchers have differing opinions on the origins and effects of obesity. The rapidly increasing rates of obesity are often linked to a high calorie diet and little to no physical activity. Although obesity is seen as a disease that affects a person’s weight, it actually affects a lot more than that. Obesity can affect individuals in both adolescence and adulthood, their families, and the healthcare system. From an outside viewpoint, obesity looks like a disease that careless, inactive people develop. Not always is this the case. Obesity is not a disease that affects solely the weight of a person. To be considered obese, your BMI (body mass index) would have to be 30 or higher. Almost 70 percent of Americans are either overweight or obese. Not only does obesity affect the weight of a person, it can also lead to increased risk for diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep apnea, and many other things. Questi ons posed on this dreadful disease by many people are on the origin of the disease, the effects and exponential growth of the disease, and the actions that are being taken to help provide a healthier environment for Americans and to establish programs and preventative methods across the country to help fight the ever increasing obesity rate. The origin of obesity is a very important question that has caused some controversy between doctors, scientists, and writers. The origins are thought to stem fromShow MoreRelatedObesity : The Disease Of Obesity Essay1374 Words   |  6 PagesMore than 93 million Americans are affected by the disease of obesity (Obesity Action-Brochure). There are many ways to approach this disease, such as weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, or diet and exercise plans. Doctors and insurance companies have different requirements that the patient must meet in order for the surgery to take place. Obesity is a condition characterized by the excess ive accumulation and storage of fat in the body. There is a difference between being overweightRead MoreObesity : A Disease?1223 Words   |  5 Pages126 12 February 2017 Obesity, A Disease Per the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, more than 35 percent of American adults are obese, more than 34 percent is overweight, and 17 percent of the children from the United States are affected by obesity. Most people disregard the fact that Obesity is a known disease that affects our future and youth, but unlike most people I would rather save this human from their disease, by telling them they are unhealthyRead MoreIs Obesity a Disease?994 Words   |  4 PagesIs Obesity a Disease? After a long day of work or school, we have the choice to prepare ourselves a healthy meal or to get something quick and easy from the drive-through or a quick microwaveable dinner. Many of us do not have the time, or just simply choose not prepare healthy meals or exercise and it shows in our waistline. From the abundance of fast food chains on every corner to television and video games it is no wonder why we are putting on extra pounds. Obesity is caused by an unhealthy andRead MoreObesity As A Disease?1512 Words   |  7 PagesObesity as a Disease Recently, a lot of debate has gone around about whether or not obesity is considered a disease or not. It is very difficult to pinpoint one sole reason obesity is occurring in people, there are many different justifications for what causes a person to become obese. Obesity is a disease that is currently sweeping the entire world. Percentages of not just adults, but children are skyrocketing like never before. People have never been so overweight until now. I am going to examineRead MoreObesity Is A Disease?1410 Words   |  6 PagesHolly Elliott ENC 1101-13186 16 December 2015 Obesity Is a Disease About one-hundred million people in America are diagnosed with obesity every year, that’s one third of our population (Carson-Dewitt, Davidson, Atkins)! Obesity should be taken seriously because, it may cause permanent damage for us in the future. Many researchers have preformed various tests to prove that obesity is a disease. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a disease is an illness that affects a person, animal, orRead MoreObesity Is A Disease?1263 Words   |  6 PagesObesity is a disease. There is no way around that but how can America s Society help? How can someone prevent this? How can this disease be cured? Do you schools play an important role in a child’s health? Even though someone may not seem obese they are and doctors and scientist have came up with the BMI scale to prove it. Someone can be very fit by playing sports and working out everyday but if their height and weight don’t meet at the appropriate spot on the chart then they are co nsidered obeseRead MoreObesity And Obesity Related Diseases Essay1706 Words   |  7 PagesChildhood obesity has become staggering in the United States. Children are considered obese if they have thirty percent amount of body fat or more and is measured by body mass index (BMI). Body mass index conveys the correlation of body weight to height. If a child’s BMI is at or exceeding over the 95th percentile, meaning if their body mass index is greater than 95% of other children that are the same sex and age, they are obese. Doctor Jeffrey Levi, an executive director of the Trust for America’sRead MoreObesity And Obesity Related Diseases896 Words   |  4 PagesObesity is primarily measured in body mass index or BMI, a BMI over 30 is considered obese. Until recently, there has been a steady rise of the obesity prevalence over the last three decades. The American taxpayers and the medical community face a huge challenge with regards to the 34.9% of adults and 16.9% of chil dren who struggle with obesity (Ogden, Carroll, Kit, Flegal, 2014). Even with the prevalence of obesity remaining flat, morbid obesity, a BMI of over 40 has increased by two to threeRead MoreObesity : Disease Associated With Obesity Essay887 Words   |  4 Pages1. List all of the diseases noted by the movie that is associated with obesity. To receive credit, this must be a complete list. The diseases associated with obesity are the following: Heart disease, Strokes, high blood pressure, Diabetes, asthma, some cancers, Gallbladder disease, Osteoarthritis, Gout, and Breathing problems such as sleep apnea. 2. Pick one in particular disease noted, and expand on it. Do the research and give etiology, signs, and symptoms. Also, list any treatments that are commonlyRead MoreObesity And Obesity Related Diseases1342 Words   |  6 Pagesgood-quality home cooking. Obesity and obesity related diseases have increased significantly in the U.S. since the mid 1970s. Over the same time, the number of fast food restaurants have more than doubled, placing fast food within close proximities to schools, work and home. A diet filled with fast food is strongly linked to weight gain, and insulin resistance, suggests obesity researcher and neurobiologist Stephan Guyenet Ph. D, an indicator sign that fast food increases the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes

Thursday, December 12, 2019

Demand and Supply of Liquefied Natural Gas in Australia

Question: Write about theDemand and Supply of Liquefied Natural Gas in Australia. Answer: Introduction Article Summary The article Malcolm Turnbull is forcing Australia's gas producers to curb local prices by Sarah Kimmorleyon 27th April 2017 demonstrates the current demand and supply of Liquefied Natural Gas in Australia. Australia is having a shortage of liquefied natural gas and hence high price for this resource. The local demand for gas among families and businesses has grown while the gas producers have not increased their supply to check on the demand. This is ironical since Australia is a net exporter of gas and yet there is a shortage in the domestic market. It is clear that the companies involved in production for local consumers are not able to supply enough to the market. The government has reservations that if the shortage continues then many businesses in Australia will be impacted adversely by high costs of production. In response to this crisis, the government has introduced a short-term regulation restricting the exportation of gas. The Directive, Australian Domestic Gas Security Mechanism, announced by the prime minister is intended to ensure that the domestic demand for gas is met before supplying to the outside community(Kimmorley 2017). This policy will come into effect on July 1st, 2017 where gas producers will function under tighter limitations on exports to guarantee that Australian households and businesses have sufficient supply of gas. Economic Analysis Demand and Supply of Liquefied Natural Gas The demand for Liquefied Natural Gas in Australia comes from both the households and the business community. The demand for this resource has since increased while the companies involved in the production for domestic consumption have not increased the supply to the market. The rise in demand can be attributed to increase in household incomes and increase in the number of businesses using gas for their production activities. Graph 1: Shortage Of Gas Quantity Families and business have increased their consumption of gas, and yet the supply is not responding to the demand rise. On the graph above the growth in demand for gas is shown by the shift of demand curve towards right from D1 to D1. The prices have increased from Pe to P1, and the quantity demanded increased to Q2. Now the amount demanded is Q2 while the amount supplied is Q1 and hence a shortage. Possible Impact of Australian Domestic Gas Security Mechanism The government has now introduced legislation restricting the exportation of the gas until the local demand is sufficiently met. If this regulation is implemented as planned, then we anticipate the supply of gas to the domestic market to increase. The increase in supply will provide a check on the rising prices and affordable to households and businesses. Graph 2: Increase in Supply of Gas When the exporting companies commence producing for the local market, there will be an increase in the supply of gas to the market. The increase in supply will make the supply curve to shift from S1 to S2. The quantity supplied changes from Q1 to Qe, and the prices drop from P1 to P2. Recommendations to the Government It is regrettable that the command did not respond on time to a gas crisis. The government has been now forced to choose between the exportation of gas and its home energy security. It has finally settled on home energy security by formulating a legislation restricting the exportation of gas. This move will only interfere with the established investments but also negate countrys net export earnings. Therefore, it is fundamental for the government to put in place measures so as to avoid a repeat of this scenario in future. The leadership of Australia should aim at increasing the supply of gas to ensure availability and sustainability. Sufficient amount of gas can be achieved in the following ways. Relax Regulations Restricting the Exploration of Gas Foremost, some states in Australia such as Northern Territory and Victoria have laws in place limiting the exploration of natural gas(Abbott 2016, p. 82). Such policies are not good for a country that aims at being a net exporter of gas and at the same time fulfilling the domestic demand. As a result, the territories that restrict the exploration of natural gas should consider relaxing the policies to permit the production of gas. Such move can be critical in ensuring that the domestic market has adequate supply and also avail surplus for export to boost the export earnings of the country. Infrastructure Development Infrastructure is a key factor to any production activity in the country. Infrastructure involved in the manufacture of gas requires a significant amount of resources which cannot be sufficiently met by the private sector(Grafton Lambie 2014, p. 510). Therefore, governments input in this area will be essential in availing the necessary support for the businesses. For instance, there is a need for construction of additional pipelines to facilitate the delivery of gas reserves to the market. With a better infrastructure in place, the costs and other challenges associated with gas production will be minimized thus availing a favorable environment for the businesses(Clark Thomson 2014, p. 89). The territories in Australia should also provide incentives to gas companies to promote the onshore gas exploration to ensure steady supplies. Additionally, the Australian competition commission should strive at improving transparency in countrys gas market to aid competition between suppliers an d information for consumers. Conclusion Despite being a net exporter of gas, Australia is experiencing a shortage of gas in its domestic market. The crisis has made the government formulate a legislation restricting the exportation of gas to the international community. While this temporary move will help restore the crisis, there is a need for the government to put measures in place to guarantee long-term certainty in the provision of gas. The first step the government should take is to develop infrastructure such as a new pipeline. The territories that have regulations restricting the exploration of gas should consider relaxing such policies. Finally, the Australian competition commission should provide the necessary support to enhance competition in the gas market. Bibliography Abbott, M 2016, The economics of the gas supply industry, Routledge, Taylor Francis Group, London. Clark, RG Thomson, M 2014, Transport Fuels from Australia's Gas Resources : advancing the nation's energy security, UNSW Press, Sydney. Grafton, RQ Lambie, NR 2014, 'Australia's Liquefied Natural Gas Sector: Past Developments, Current Challenges and Ways Forward', Australian Economic Review, pp. 509-522. Kimmorley, S 2017, Malcolm Turnbull is forcing Australia's gas producers to curb local prices, viewed 28th April 2017, https://www.businessinsider.com.au/malcolm-turnbull-is-forcing-australias-gas-producers-to-curb-local-prices-2017-4. Mokhatab, S, Mak, JY, Valappil, JV Wood, DA 2013, Handbook of liquefied natural gas, Elsevier Science, Burlington.