International Research in Environment, Geography and Earth Science Vol. 1

Numerical Modeling of the Global Circulation of the Earth's Middle Atmosphere for Different External Conditions

2021-08-19T05:14:34+00:00

Results of numerical modeling of global distributions of the horizontal and vertical wind in the Earth's middle atmosphere are presented and discussed. For obtaining the presented simulation results, the mathematical model of the global neutral wind system of the Earth’s atmosphere, developed earlier in the Polar Geophysical Institute, was applied. The peculiarity of the utilized model consists in that the internal energy equation for the neutral gas is not solved in the model calculations. Instead, the global temperature field is assumed to be a given distribution, i.e. the input parameter of the model. Moreover, in the model calculations, not only the horizontal components but also the vertical component of the neutral wind velocity is obtained by means of a numerical solution of a generalized Navier-Stokes equation for compressible gas, so the applied mathematical model is non-hydrostatic. The utilized model enables to calculate three-dimensional global distributions of the zonal, meridional, and vertical components of the neutral wind at levels of the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, and lower thermosphere. In the present work the mathematical model is applied for investigation of the influence of horizontal non-uniformity of the neutral gas temperature on the formation of the Earth's atmosphere circulation for conditions corresponding to four different seasons (winter, spring, summer, and autumn). Also, the mathematical model is applied for investigation of the influence of solar activity on the formation of the large-scale global circulation of the Earth's atmosphere. The results of simulation indicate that the horizontal non-uniformity of the neutral gas temperature, which is distinct in different seasons, ought to considerably influence the formation of the global neutral wind system in the middle atmosphere, in particular, the large-scale circumpolar vortices of the northern and southern hemispheres. Also, the simulation results indicate that solar activity ought to influence considerably on the formation of global neutral wind system in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere. The influence is conditioned by the vertical transport of air from the lower thermosphere to the mesosphere and stratosphere. This transport may be rather different under distinct solar activity conditions.

2500 Years of Observations, Deductions, Models and Geoethics: Global Perspective

2021-08-19T05:17:31+00:00

It all began with observations. With Ovidius, changes and metamorphoses were incorporated in the ancient “scientific” knowledge. Aristotle’s was to formulate the world’s first model claiming that the Earth was in the planetary centre. This model fooled the world for 1800 years. There is a danger in ruling models. The nuclear waste handling and the global warming scenario are two such modern ruling models, both of which are here challenged because of observational facts. Geoethics calls for an increased respect for observational facts. Observation–interpretation–conclusion must be the base and backbone for science today, as it has been in the past.

Determination of Some Geo-Mechanical Parameters and the Effect of Anisotropy in Sedimentary Rocks for Hydrocarbon Exploration and Exploitation Using Core Samples in Western Part of Tripura, India

2021-08-19T05:22:22+00:00

The velocity anisotropy parameters and elastic constants play very important role to estimate Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio accurately. For geomechanics applications such as hydraulic fracturing design, analysis of wellbore stability and rock failure, determination of in situ stress and assessment of the response of reservoirs and surrounding rocks to changes in pore pressure and stress, Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio play very important role.

Four rock samples were collected from four different wells situated in study area. The ultrasonic transmission method has been used to measure P – wave, Sh – wave and Sv – wave travel times as a function of orientation and confining pressure. The five independent stiffnesses constants, Young’s moduli, Poisson’s ratio and Bulk moduli of the samples were estimated.

The Poisson’s ratios are varying as the confining pressure is changed. The axial strain is larger than the lateral strain, resulting . For shales, the Young’s modulus measured parallel to bedding E₁ is usually greater than the Young’s modulus measured perpendicular to bedding E₃. Through this study it has been observed that there is a strong effect of anisotropy parameters on Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio.

Abrupt Climate Change: Time is Tight

2021-08-19T05:26:12+00:00

The new theme of abrupt climate change (“Hawking tipping point”) must be taken up by global coordination – The UNFCCC, IPCC and the G20. The only policy response is to reinforce the COP21 project, and start managing its quick implementation of decarbonisation. A more decisive climate change policy – No coal or charcoal, solar power parks, and possibly carbon capture – may not guarantee the goal of + 2 degrees Celsius, but it may help avoid climate chaos. Only global coordination can break through the resistance of markets in the rich countries and governments in the Third World together with vibrant civil society. The large COP21 Secretariat must become a management agency for rapid decarbonisation with support from other global bodies (WB, IMF) and the G20.

Spatial Analysis of the Structural Lineaments and Tectonics of Bulawayo Area in Zimbabwe with Repercussions for Hydrogeological Characteristics of the Crystalline Basement Aquifers

2021-08-19T05:31:06+00:00

This study reviews the spatial analysis of the geological settings, structural lineaments, geomorphological landscape and tectonics and their repercussions for hydrogeological characteristics of the crystalline basement aquifer in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. In order to establish groundwater occurrence in basement aquifers, it is important to understand the regional structural lineaments and regional tectonics as well as the geomorphological settings of the area. Data from aeromagnetic surveys was also used to extract intrusive structures and different lithology. The integration of the data sets, individual class weights and map scores which were assessed based on Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) in a geographical information system (GIS) environment helped in producing aquifer zonation. GIS based Orientation Analysis and Cross section tools (CSTools) was applied to produce rose diagram from the structural lineaments. Taconites were used to distinguish the essential features of tectonic movements from the fabricated axes. The results indicated that about 23.45% of the area was classified good groundwater potential and 31.57% of the area was classified as being moderate groundwater potential, with over 22.97% being low potential and 22.02% of the area is recognised as poor. The central part of the study area has high yielding aquifers which are underlain by greenstone belt compared to the surrounding areas which are underlain by young intrusive granitic rocks of poor porosity. This was enhanced by potential conduits of groundwater flow in the form of fractured zones and sheared zones. Further analysis of the groundwater potential zones resulted in dissecting the high and moderate zones into four major aquifers within Bulawayo urban. These are Matsheumhlope, Umganwini, Umguza and Lobengula aquifers.

Land Cover Dynamics in Tanzania Part of Kagera River Basin: A Strategy for Sustainability of Lake Victoria

2021-08-19T05:34:31+00:00

This study is reporting on an investigation done to assess land cover dynamics in Tanzania part of Kagera River Basin (KRB) over a period of 21 years i.e.1990-2011 using Remote Sensing, Hydrology and GIS as a basis for initiating policy interventions for sustainability of Lake Victoria ecosystem. Hitherto, the extent of land cover changes in the KRB have not been quantified with the view of assessing the extent of exploitation of the natural resources in the area and its subsequent impact on the trans-boundary Lake Victoria water resource. The assessment is important firstly, for identification of causative factors and secondly, as a mechanism for formulating necessary interventions to that effect. Specifically, Landsat 5, Landsat 7 and ETM+ (2000) satellite images were used. Eight Land Cover classes were identified namely, Forests, Woodland, Bush land, Cultivated Land, Swamps, Grassland, Bare land and Urban areas. Hydrographical data were used to assess changes in quantity of water flowing from the KRB into Lake Victoria and relating it with land cover dynamics in KRB at in the period of study. Spatial data processing, analysis and interpretation were carried out in ERDAS Imagine and ArcGIS software environments; while water quantity data and other non-spatial data were processed and analyzed in Microsoft Excel application 2007.

The study revealed a significant decline of vegetation cover and water quantity discharged from Kagera River to Lake Victoria over the study period. This contravenes the Global efforts of ecological sustainability, urging avoidance of depletion of natural resources for maintenance for ecological balance. These results are early warning to the Management of Lake Victoria of its potential failure towards achievement the Millennium Development Goal on responsible consumption and protection of natural resources in proximity of Lake Victoria. The Management of Lake Victoria in collaboration with other relevant authorities should thus, initiate remedial measures to control none strategic use of vegetation cover in KRB for sustainability of Lake Victoria and its ecosystem.

Quantifying the Negative Impacts of Damming River Omo on Lake Turkana Communities’ Consequent Conflicts: Brief Overview

2021-08-19T05:38:14+00:00

The aim of this study was to outline and do a preliminary quantification of the impact of damming the Omo River on the communities of people settled around Lake Turkana and the potential resulting conflicts. Lake Turkana, Africa’s fourth largest lake and the world’s largest desert lake, is in Kenya’s northern arid and semi-arid lands. The lake is mainly sustained by the inflows of Ethiopia’s River Omo. The people in this region subsist mainly through pastoralism. The human and livestock population in this region has significantly risen over time. The Gibe III Project which included damming of the Omo River to create one of the world’s largest dams was completed in 2015. By the end of the project, the annual Omo River’s inflow to Lake Turkana was significantly reduced, following the filling of the reservoir formed by the River Omo’s gorge. The project threatens the livelihood of communities depending on Lake Turkana and its ecosystem. Remote sensing images were used to determine the changes of the lake and surrounding land. The GIS imagery used for this purpose was acquired from the USGS website. The images for different periods of time were paired for visual comparison and appreciation of changes with respect to years. Observations of imagery and preliminary measurements indicate significant lake boundary changes, indicating an overall decline. This decline has potential deleterious impact of the sustainability and livelihood of the people in areas surrounding Lake Turkana.

Determination of Physico-chemical Nature and Water Quality Index of Groundwater in Erode District (Perundurai)

2021-08-19T05:42:10+00:00

This paper presents the study on the physico-chemical parameters of Groundwater samples collected at nine stations at the radius of 10 km as center as SIPCOT industries Perundurai in Erode district. The quality of Ground Water samples are compared to the water quality index for the drinking purpose. The water quality index is calculated by the help of parameter sample results like Turbidity, Electrical Conductivity, Total dissolved solids, Total Alkalinity, Sodium, Iron, Calcium, pH, Total Hardness, Magnesium, Manganese, Nitrate, Chloride, Fluoride, Sulphate, Ammonia, Phosphate through formulae. Finally, the comparison of quality of Groundwater on basis of Water quality index done on collected sample stations. The calculated water quality index results shows that 22.22% falls in the Excellent to Good water category. On the other hand 44.44% falls in the poor to very poor water category indicating the water is not suitable for drinking and need further treatment.

Recent Study Trend Analysis in Ecological Status and Macrophytic Characterization of Watercourses: Case of the Semois-Chiers Basin, Belgium Wallonia

2021-08-19T05:45:52+00:00

In order to analyze the distribution and evolution of the aquatic vegetation and ecological status of the Semois-Chiers basin (Semois sub-basin and Chiers sub-basin), macrophyte surveys were con- ducted at 48 sites in 2007 and 2013. Environmental parameters were also measured in order to characterize the water bodies in terms of physicochemical properties and anthropogenic pressure. The two-way clustering and indicator value (INDVAL) methods were used to assess groups of sites according to their macrophytic composition and species communities. The results showed a clear difference between streams in the Lorraine area (calcareous watercourses) and in the Ardennes (siliceous). Within each natural region, those with natural vegetation of high ecological status were separated from those dominated by resistant species. The Macrophytical Biological Index for Rivers (IBMR) was calculated for the sites visited in 2010 and 2013 and the results show a trend towards an increase of IBMR values of polluted sites. For the latter, the Wilcoxon test was performed to assess the significance of the difference in quality between 2010 and 2013. This showed a statistically significant difference (p-value = 0.035). Our results showed similarities with previous data, as well as some differences. The differences observed might indicate a gradual change in the composition of the vegetation in the study area, which was caused by changes in environmental conditions. They could also reflect a lack of information about the ecology of certain groups of plants, mainly bryophytes and macroalgae that were not considered in previous studies. Despite the measures implemented under the EU’s Water Framework Directive (WFD), the cur- rent vegetation of the Semois river differs little from that observed in 1996. The headwaters of a Semois river, described in previous studies as polytrophic and devoid of vegetation, show a slight improvement, with the appearance of macrophytic species. In some parts of the Chiers sub-basin, however, resistant species observed in 1999 persist.

The Details of Water Transfer by Tangential Line Method - A Suggestion to Solve All Kinds of Water Related Problems in the World

2021-08-19T05:50:09+00:00

I would like to extend my idea in this article to overcome the first and foremost need of lives which till now exists in the planet earth and no authenticated news of availability in any other planet -WATER and its Conservation.

From the water rich sources, we can transfer the water from one place to another without using electricity. This is possible by fixing the pipe lines parallel to the tangential line of the Earth Circle.

Satellite Based Oil Spill Monitoring and Detection in Oceanic World Using Adaptive Threshold Techniques: Advanced Study

2021-08-19T05:52:30+00:00

In this paper an adaptive threshold Techniques has been used which aimed to solve problem of oil spills in oceanic world. As we know oil spill is the biggest issue faced by marine species to overcome this problem an adaptive threshold method is applied for automatic monitoring and detection of oil spills in the ocean. This research is implemented using SAR RADARSAT-2 Narrow single beam data acquired in the Gulf of Mexico SAR image. The study demonstrates occurrence of oil spill in the ocean using image data obtained from the different satellite and detection of dark patches and bands in the images with low time complexity. In conclusion, adaptive threshold can be used as a tool for automatic detection of oil spill and SAR satellite image serves as an excellent sensor for oil spill detection and surveying.