Category: Planet Earth

How Fast are Cheetahs?

Sarah the cheetah, running — The fastest properly authenticated cheetah was a female South African cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus jubatus) named Sarah that lived in the Cincinnati Zoo. She was known as the world's fastest land mammal according to National Geographic magazine. She ran 100 meters in 5.95 seconds in 2012 when she was 11 years old, and was radar-timed at up to 61 miles (98.1 kilometers) an hour. She died (put to sleep because of her diminished quality of life) on 22 January 2016 at the age of 15. Photo: a captured image of Sarah from a high speed video clip.

The cheetah, renowned as the fastest land animal on Earth, epitomizes speed like no other creature. While we often hear of its unparalleled velocity, a question that frequently arises is: how fast can a cheetah actually run? Across various sources, speeds ranging from 96 to 120 kilometers per hour (60 to 75 miles per hour) are cited. However, the most accurately documented speed comes from an exceptional individual, a South African cheetah named Sarah (c. 2001-January 22, 2016) from the Cincinnati Zoo.

Geology Planet Earth

What Makes Yellowstone’s Colors?

Post author By M. Özgür Nevres
Post date January 16, 2024
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Most extreme places life can be found on Earth: the world-famous Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park — The world-famous Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park: A vibrant display of nature's palette. This largest hot spring in the United States captivates with its vivid colors, created by thermophilic bacteria thriving in its scalding waters, a spectacular example of life flourishing in extreme volcanic conditions. Image source: Deposit Photos

Yellowstone National Park, renowned for its geysers, also astonishes visitors with the vibrant colors accompanying these thermal features. Gazing upon these landscapes, one is treated to a visual feast of yellows, oranges, reds, and greens in the flowing hot water, the lining of hot pools, and even in the steam which can appear tinged with color.

Oceans

Rogue Waves: A Comprehensive Guide to Oceans’ Terrific Giants

Post author By M. Özgür Nevres
Post date January 16, 2024
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Rogue waves, reported by the sailors at least since the 19th century, long dismissed as nautical folklore, have emerged as a serious oceanic phenomenon. These towering, unpredictable waves have captivated sailors’ tales and puzzled scientists for centuries. Once considered mere myths, recent evidence has revealed their real and formidable presence, challenging our understanding of ocean dynamics and highlighting the unpredictable power of the sea.

Life on Earth Evolution

10 Bizarre Places Where Life Thrives on Earth

Post author By M. Özgür Nevres
Post date January 13, 2024
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The Earth is the only planet we know of that can support life in the cold, vast space. It seems we’re extremely lucky because our planet has a lot of unique characteristics that make life possible on it. But, interestingly, it also seems “where life can evolve, it will”. From the scorching heat of volcanic springs to the intense pressure of ocean depths, life adapts and thrives in settings once deemed uninhabitable. Explore the ten most extreme environments where nature defies limits, revealing the adaptability and tenacity of life in our planet’s harshest conditions. This journey unveils the incredible extremophiles, organisms that redefine our understanding of survival and resilience in Earth’s most challenging locales.

Life on Earth Astrobiology Astronomy Evolution Planet Earth Solar System

What Makes Life on Earth Possible? [10 Crucial Factors]

Post author By M. Özgür Nevres
Post date January 12, 2024
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Growing sprout, beginning of a new life. Source: Deposit Photos

Amidst the vast, frigid expanse of space, Earth shines as a unique cradle of life. This blue gem has harbored life for over 3.5 billion years and, barring unforeseen catastrophes, promises to continue for billions more. But, what makes life on earth possible? Explore the 10 key elements that make our planet a haven for life.

Solar System Astronomy Planet Earth

What causes the moon’s phases? [Explained]

Post author By M. Özgür Nevres
Post date January 4, 2024
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Moon phases: half moon — The moon is only half-lit by the Sun at any time. We see it from different angles at different times, that's how moon phases occur.

The phases of the Moon are determined by the changing angles of the Sun, Moon, and Earth, not by the Earth’s shadow, which only causes lunar eclipses. Like the Earth, the moon is only half-lit by the Sun at any time. We see it from different angles at different times, that’s how moon phases occur.

Animals Life on Earth

Can Alligators and Crocodiles Mate? Understanding Their Evolutionary Paths

Post author By M. Özgür Nevres
Post date December 9, 2023
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The differences between a crocodile and an alligator. Left: an American alligator (A. mississippiensis). Photo by Yulia Sense on Deposit Photos. Right: Smaug, a 5-meter long (16.3 feet) Australian Saltwater Crocodile. Photo by Adam Britton.

Alligators and crocodiles are often mistaken for one another due to their apparent physical similarities. However, appearances can be deceiving. These reptiles, though looking similar to us, belong to different families and have evolved separately for millions of years.

Evolution Life on Earth

From Red to Blue: Micro and Macro Evolution Explained

Post author By M. Özgür Nevres
Post date December 7, 2023
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Evolution works through a process akin to a color spectrum gradually shifting from red to blue, where minute changes accumulate over time to result in significant transformations. This concept offers a vivid understanding of micro-evolution, characterized by small and subtle adjustments that are almost imperceptible on their own. Over extended periods, these incremental changes lead to macro-evolution, the broader and more noticeable shifts in species and traits. This analogy not only clarifies the evolutionary process but also helps dispel common misconceptions, illustrating the seamless and natural progression from one evolutionary state to another.

Life on Earth Geology Places Plants

10 Recently Lost Natural Wonders

Post author By M. Özgür Nevres
Post date December 6, 2023
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Wawona tree — The most famous tunnel-tree was the Wawona Tree, in Yosemite National Park; it fell during a winter storm in 1969 at an estimated age of 2,100 years. The Wawona Tree, also known as the Wawona Tunnel Tree, was a famous giant sequoia that stood in Mariposa Grove, Yosemite National Park, California, USA, until February 1969. It had a height of 227 feet (69 m) and was 26 feet (7.9 m) in diameter at the base. A tunnel was cut through the tree in 1881, enlarging an existing fire scar. Construction of the Wawona Tree was part of an effort by the Park Service to increase tourism in the age of the automobile. The Wawona Tree fell in February 1969 under a heavy load of snow on its crown. It is now known as the Fallen Tunnel Tree. Image: Wikimedia

The Earth is an ever-changing canvas, boasting a plethora of natural wonders that have captivated humans for generations. From expansive coral reefs teeming with life to awe-inspiring volcanoes that seem to touch the sky, these marvels remind us of the beauty and complexity of our planet. However, not all wonders stand the test of time. Climate change, natural disasters, and human activities are threatening the very existence of these treasures. A closer look at 10 recently lost natural wonders reveals a tragic but essential story: the urgency to protect what remains and the consequences of neglect.

Animals Life on Earth

Why Elephants are not Smarter than Humans, Despite Having Bigger Brains? [Explained]

Post author By M. Özgür Nevres
Post date December 4, 2023
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African Elephant herd — An elephant herd, led by a Magnificent 'Tusker' bull at a waterhole in the Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa. Source: Deposit Photos

Despite their larger brains, elephants and whales, while exhibiting significant intelligence, do not reach the cognitive levels of humans, whose brains are comparatively smaller. This paradoxical scenario underscores the complexity of measuring intelligence solely by brain size. In this exploration, we delve into why the larger brains of these majestic animals do not necessarily confer superior intelligence. There are nuanced factors beyond mere size – including brain structure, neuron density, and functional specialization – that contribute to the remarkable cognitive abilities seen in humans. This article aims to unravel the mysteries behind brain size and intelligence, offering insights into how diverse species have evolved distinct cognitive capabilities.