Glossary of Art and Architecture Terms
A
Abacus
Top of the capital. In the Doric order, it is shaped like a prism. In the Ionic order, it is spiral-shaped, and in the Corinthian order, it is very simple.
Academia
An association of people whose purpose is the cultivation and progress of arts, letters, etc.
Acanto
A spiny-leaved plant that decorates the Corinthian capital.
Acropolis
The high and fortified part of the Greek polis. It was the holiest place in the city, and the most important religious buildings were located there.
Acroteria
Decorative
Read MoreGlossary of Architectural and Artistic Terms
Abacus:
Top of the capital. In the Doric order, it is shaped like a prism. In the Ionic order, it is spiral, and in the Corinthian order, it is very simple.
Balustered:
Renaissance or Baroque column with much decoration.
Apse:
Chapels behind the main altar.
Academia:
An association of people whose purpose is the cultivation and progress of arts, letters, etc.
Acanto:
Spiny-leaved plant that decorates the Corinthian capital.
Acropolis:
High and fortified part of the Greek polis. It was the holiest place in
Read MoreVolcanoes, Weathering, and Soil Formation: A Comprehensive Guide
Volcanic Eruptions
Nonexplosive eruptions are relatively calm outpourings of lava that can release a huge amount of molten rock. Explosive eruptions release clouds of hot debris and gases, often at supersonic speeds.
Volcano Formation
Volcanoes form around vents that release magma onto Earth’s surface. The composition of magma determines if a volcanic eruption is explosive, nonexplosive, or somewhere in between. High water and silica content in magma increases the likelihood of an explosive eruption.
Read MoreClimate Change and Hazardous Waste Management
Climate Change
Evidence of Climate Change
There is strong evidence that the Earth’s climate is changing, primarily due to human activities. This evidence includes:
- Increases in global and local air temperatures
- Increases in ocean temperatures
- Melting of glaciers and ice sheets (e.g., Greenland)
- Sea level rise due to thermal expansion and melting ice
- Changes in species distribution (e.g., range shifts)
- Changes in the timing of seasonal events (phenology), such as earlier ice out in lakes and earlier blooming
Exploring the Atmosphere, Weather, and Climate Zones
1. The Atmosphere and Weather
Layers:
- Exosphere: High temperature, satellites.
- Ionosphere: High temperature, meteorites.
- Mesosphere: Very dense layer.
- Stratosphere: Has the ozone layer that absorbs
Wheels and Tires: Anatomy and Function in Vehicles
Wheels
Wheels are the fulcrum of a car on the ground, enabling propulsion and braking. They must withstand the vehicle’s weight, load, and suspension impacts while handling braking forces and determining the vehicle’s direction. These demands necessitate both strength and lightweight construction.
Cars utilize pneumatic tires mounted on metal rims. The tire, an inflatable ring, is attached to the rim, and pressurized air fills the space between them.
Wheels have holes for air circulation, which cools
Read More