Key Environmental and Landscape Terms
Soil Horizon
Each of the layers or strata that form soil. All these layers together form the soil profile. Depending on their distribution, soils are classified into different types, such as those with poorly differentiated profiles or those that are deteriorated or deteriorating.
Leaching
The dissolution and flushing of soluble elements from the upper horizon of soil by water.
Humus
Composted organic matter found in the topsoil, resulting from the decomposition of plant and animal material mixed with
Read MoreCrude Oil: From Formation to Products
What is Crude Oil?
Crude oil is a viscous black liquid, collected at great depths within sedimentary rocks. The term ‘petroleum’ means ‘rock oil’. It is a complex mixture of liquid hydrocarbons and contains dissolved solid and gaseous hydrocarbons, along with oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur compounds. Its appearance varies from a less dense liquid to a thick, tarry substance.
Understanding Hydrocarbons
Hydrocarbons are organic compounds containing hydrogen and carbon. They are classified into series such
Read MoreBulldozer, Angledozer, Ripper, Loader Explained
What is a Bulldozer?
A bulldozer is a powerful pusher machine, typically equipped with a front push blade that can be raised or lowered by a hydraulic control system. It normally excavates and transports material to the unloading site while rotating. It shapes both cuts and embankments in the same operation.
Bulldozer Primary Uses
The most prominent use and economic application of a bulldozer is dragging and transporting material along the direction of travel (maximum 60 or 70 meters), according to
Read MoreFlood Dynamics: Hazards, Risks, and Prevention
Understanding Flood Risks and Causes
Floods are a destructive geological phenomenon within the geosphere. Their causes can be geological, climatic, and anthropogenic, originating from events like hurricanes, heavy rainfall leading to river overflow, channel obstructions, and more.
Types of Flood Events
Flooding in continental watercourses (avenidas) can be categorized into two main types:
Torrential Floods
These originate in streams or dry riverbeds carved by water on steep slopes. Water flows sporadically
Read MoreMountain Ranges and Relief of Spain
The Edges of the Meseta Central
The massive Galician-Leonese Massif, Cantabrian Mountains, Sierra Morena, and Iberian System form the edges of the Meseta Central (with protruding reliefs from folding). A massif is a relief or flat plateau formed during the Primary or Paleozoic era. Rocks are formed by very rigid materials; when there are Earth’s movements, they fracture into blocks rather than folding. In contrast, in reliefs of folding, younger materials tend to fold due to pressures caused by orogenic
Read MoreKey Concepts in Science, Sustainability, and Technology
Paradigm
Context, commitments, principles, and practices that define a scientific discipline at a given time. A scientific revolution occurs when a paradigm shift happens.
Sustainable Development
Meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Agenda 21
A comprehensive work plan for government institutions to create a framework for sustainable development.
Ecological Footprint
An indicator measuring the impact of human activities on Earth.
Biocapacity
The
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