The Boltzmann Constant (Boltzmann’s Constant) is a fundamental physics constant that plays a pivotal role in almost every single statistical formulation in both quantum and classical physics. It is named after Austrian physicist, Ludwig Boltzmann (1844 – 1906), who made significant contributions to the foundation and development of a particular branch of theoretical physics known as statistical mechanics. Definition The Boltzmann Constant, symbolized by k or kB, is the relationship between absolute temperature and kinetic energy in each molecule of an ideal gas. It is equal to the ratio of Read More

Fireworks are, in the simplest terms, aeronautical explosives that are used for entertainment and celebratory purposes. Fireworks have been used for nearly a thousand years and are available in hundreds of different shapes, sizes, and colors. There are also various forms of fireworks that burn in different ways. Sparklers, for example, simply produce sparks when ignited and do not explode at all. Skyrockets, on the other hand, are much larger and are launched high into the sky, where they explode into various shapes and colors. Fireworks are used all around Read More

Tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) are used to detect the air pressure of automobile tires and provide warnings to the operator when the pressure is low. They are electronic devices and are also referred to as tire pressure indication systems depending on the device’s manufacturer. Most variants of the system display a warning light to the vehicle operator, and some also display the real time pressure of each tire on the automobile. What Are the Types of Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems? There are two types of tire pressure monitoring systems: Read More

Paraffinum Liquidum (mineral oil) is a petroleum by-product and is created through distillation. Mineral oil is completely transparent and is basically a liquid form of petroleum jelly. It is produced in large quantities and is used in many different ways all over the world, mostly due to its low toxicity and low cost. Mineral oil is safe for both skin contact as well as ingestion, and can be found in most drug stores. It can be used as a preservative, lubricant, coolant, and non-conductive thermal fluid. How Paraffinum Liquidum Works Read More

How a wind turbine works depends on the type of wind turbine discussed. While most people think of windmills as being the only true type of wind turbine, this is simply not the case, as there are horizontal axis, vertical axis, and various other types of "special" wind turbines in service around the world. Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines Horizontal axis wind turbines, also known as HAWTs are the most common and most well known types of wind turbines. They are all modeled after the classic Dutch windmills of yesteryear, but Read More

Seismic waves are shock waves that occur underneath or through the Earth’s surface. Volcanic eruptions, explosions, wind, or strong ocean waves generate them. Depending on the nature and strength of the seismic wave, it can significantly damage the Earth’s surface or generate tsunami waves that can wreak havoc on the coastline. Who Studies Seismic Waves? The study of seismic waves is called seismology. It deals with the analysis and monitoring of seismic waves and earthquakes, and the results of these events. The scientists who undertake these studies are called seismologists. Read More

Lava is molten rock discharged from a volcano during an eruption. Volcanic eruptions are caused by the ascent of magma to the surface of the earth. When freshly discharged, lava liquid is extremely hot; temperature ranges from 1300 °Fahrenheit to 2200 ° Fahrenheit.  Lava is quite thick in nature and can flow for long distances, before congealing into igneous rock. Lava is quite destructive, causing damage to property within the vicinity of a volcano. People are not usually affected by lava due its slow moving nature. However there have been Read More

The primary problem with the current use of electricity is that of electrical resistance. In broad terms, this refers to the "opposition" of the materials to the electricity passing through them. Almost all materials now used to conduct electricity exhibit resistance to some degree or another. This results in some loss in the electrical power distributed to consumers and users – either in terms of generating heat (which is the reason for cooling fans and "heat sinks" in many electrical appliances – they are needed to dissipate the heat created Read More

Methyl salicylate is a chemical that is used in a number of over the counter bodily aches and pain relievers. It has a wintergreen smell, and is generally considered safe for human use. Unfortunately, overdoses may result from improper use or not following manufacturer recommendations regarding how often the product should be applied. Methyl Salicylate Products There are a number of temporary aches and pain relievers that have methyl salicylate as an ingredient. These include those designed to treat backaches, muscle sprains, and bruises. The substance is usually in a Read More

Selenographers are those who study the features of the moon. This includes all physical features which are viewable with the eyes by using tools such as telescopes and imaging devices. The practice is a smaller part of selenology which is the science of the moon. Selenographers of today study the changes that occur on the moon when we visit as well as map important information for the government about what we have done on the moon. Famous Selenographers in History There has been a large selection of selenographers in history. The famous ones are Read More