Kinetic Theory, Atomic Structure, and Bioelements Explained
Kinetic Theory of Gases
The kinetic theory of gases states that gases are formed of very small particles separated from each other, moving constantly. Gases occupy the entire volume of the container. Gas pressure is exerted on the walls of the container due to the constant collisions of the gas particles with the walls.
The more rapidly the particles move, the higher the temperature. Solids do not expand or compress easily, maintaining a constant volume and shape. Their particles are strongly united
Read MoreIberian Peninsula: Factors Influencing Climate
Factors Influencing the Iberian Peninsula’s Climate
Geography:
Latitude: The Iberian Peninsula is located in the temperate zone, which results in two clearly marked seasons and two transitional seasons. Its position in southwestern Europe means it is affected by the zonal circulation of the West.
Maritime Influence: The location between two seas influences temperature regulation, helping to create mild climates with lower temperature ranges. The Mediterranean Sea has higher temperatures than the Atlantic,
Read MoreKey Geological Terms: Relief, Rocks, and Tectonic Processes
Geological and Geographical Definitions
- Appalachian Relief
- A type of folded structure rejuvenated by erosion that highlights hard materials and depresses soft layers (e.g., Montes de Toledo).
- Germanic Relief
- Relief where the hardness of materials led to fracturing or faulting. Characterized by horsts and grabens (rifts).
- Jurassic Relief
- A type of folded structure formed by anticlines and synclines.
- Saxon Relief (or Fold-Fault Relief)
- A mixed relief type involving both folding and fracturing.
- Igneous Rock
- Rocks
Geological Processes: Faults, Folds, Metamorphism, and More
Geological Processes: An Overview
Faults and Fractures
Faults: Fractures with displacement of blocks. Without displacement, they are called jointing.
Elements of a Fault:
- Fault Plane: Fracture separating displaced blocks.
- Hanging Wall: The block above the fault plane.
- Footwall: The block below the fault plane.
- Slickensides: Scratches caused by friction.
- Fault Throw: Vertical displacement between blocks.
Types of Faults:
- Normal Fault: Hanging wall moves down relative to the footwall.
- Reverse Fault: Hanging
Understanding Smog, Air Pollution, and Thermal Inversion
1. What is Smog? Smog is a portmanteau of “smoke” and “fog.” It describes air pollution in cities, resulting from specific weather conditions combined with pollutants.
2. What is Industrial Smog? Industrial smog was common in cities with heavy industry that burned large amounts of coal and heavy oil with high sulfur content. This created a mixture of sulfur dioxide, sulfuric acid droplets, and solid particles, resulting in a heavy, polluted fog harmful to health and infrastructure.
3. What is Photochemical
Read MoreIrrigation Water Quality: Understanding Salinity, Evapotranspiration, and Efficiency
Irrigation Water Quality
Poor water quality affects the water-soil-plant relationship.
Salinity and Water Deficit
Salinity can cause water deficits. High salinity reduces water availability for plants. Salinity is related to the osmotic potential.
Sodium and Soil Sodicity
Free sodium (Na) creates a problem called soil sodicity. With sodicity, the soil structure is lost, and infiltration decreases. An example is the dust on roads, where there is almost no infiltration.
To absorb free sodium, use elements
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