220 questions and answers in this section

Natural Sciences » Geology

Explain why Roman aqueducts were so ingeniously designed to transport water over long distances.

Explain why Roman aqueducts were so ingeniously designed to transport water over long distances.

The Romans had grasped one essential thing: water always flows downhill. They designed their aqueducts with a gentle and constant slope (often between 0.1 and...

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Explain why some cities have winding streets?

Explain why some cities have winding streets?

If you've ever noticed that some cities have streets that wind in all directions, it's often due to the natural terrain. Hills, mountains, or waterways...

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Explain why does the size of ice crystals vary in a glacier?

Explain why does the size of ice crystals vary in a glacier?

Temperatures play a key role: when it's very cold, the crystals remain small because the snow compacts slowly and quietly. Conversely, milder temperatures close to...

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Explain why bronze casting has been used since antiquity to create durable sculptures.

Explain why bronze casting has been used since antiquity to create durable sculptures.

Bronze is an alloy composed mainly of copper and tin. When mixed, these two metals create a material that is much stronger and more durable...

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Explain why do some waterfalls create natural pools at the base of their drop?

Explain why do some waterfalls create natural pools at the base of their drop?

When a waterfall cascades from a certain height, the energy of the water at impact is intense. This power gradually tears away chunks of rock...

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Explain why waterfalls like those of Iguazú produce a permanent rainbow.

Explain why waterfalls like those of Iguazú produce a permanent rainbow.

To have a rainbow, you absolutely need sunlight. This light appears transparent but actually hides all the visible colors. When its rays pass through small...

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Explain why basalt has a microlitic structure?

Explain why basalt has a microlitic structure?

When basaltic magma reaches the surface during a volcanic eruption, it comes into direct contact with cold air or water, causing it to cool extremely...

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Explain why volcanic rocks are so light despite their dense appearance.

Explain why volcanic rocks are so light despite their dense appearance.

During an eruption, the magma contains a large amount of dissolved gases, such as carbon dioxide or water vapor. These gases, under pressure in the...

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Explain why geological formations in the form of arches are fragile and ephemeral.

Explain why geological formations in the form of arches are fragile and ephemeral.

The fragility of a geological arch mainly depends on the rocks that compose it. For instance, take sandstone, it is quite brittle, and therefore vulnerable...

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Explain why some rocks have spiral patterns?

Explain why some rocks have spiral patterns?

The spiral patterns you observe on certain rocks often come from specific geological processes, particularly related to the formation of mineral concretions. As water flows...

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