Land degradation is a process in which the value of the biophysical environment is affected by one or more combination of human-induced processes acting on the land. It is also the gradual destruction or reduction of the quality and quantity of human activities, animal activities or natural means. It is viewed as any change or disturbance to the land perceived to be deleterious or unwanted. Natural hazards are not included in the causes; however, human activities can indirectly affect phenomena such as bush fires and floods.
Various causes include
<ul>
<li>land clearance</li>
<li>agricultural depletion of soil nutrients through poor farming practices</li>
<li>livestock including overgrazing and overdrafting</li>
<li>inappropriate irrigation</li>
<li>urban sprawl and commercial development</li>
<li>soil contamination including vehicle off-roading</li>
<li>quarrying of stone</li>
<li>ore</li>
<li>minerals and sand</li>
<li>increase in field size</li>
<li>exposure of naked soil, monoculture</li>
<li>dumping of non-biodegradable trash</li>
</ul>
The main outcome of land degradation is a considerable decrease in the productivity of the land. The major pressures on vulnerable land include accelerated soil erosion by wind and water, soil acidification and the creation of acid sulfate soil resulting in barren soil, soil alkalinisation owing to irrigation with water holding sodium bicarbonate leading to poor soil structure and reduced crop yields, soil salination in irrigated land that requires soil salinity control to reclaim the land, soil water logging in irrigated land which calls for some type of subsurface land drainage to remediate the negative effects, and destruction of soil structure including some loss of organic matter.
Image Caption: A limestone karst on Nauru Island as a result of the over-mining of phosphate. Credit: ARM Climate Research Facility / Wikipedia

What is Land Degradation?

The ESA-led Solar Orbiter mission is currently observing and studying the Sun with six different imaging instruments, allowing the spacecraft to peel away the Sun's many layers and reveal its diverse faces.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-resolution-views-of-the-sun">High-resolution views of the Sun</h2>



Recently, the mission released the highest-resolution full views to date of the Sun's visible surface, known as the photosphere.&nbsp;



The images were assembled from data captured by the spacecraft's Polarimetric and Helioseismic Imager (PHI).&nbsp;



This instrument not only photographs the Sun in visible light but also measures the direction of the <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Forigin-of-the-suns-magnetic-field-discovered-after-400-years%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic field</a> and maps the speed and direction in which different parts of the surface are moving.



PHI's measurements of the photosphere can be directly compared to a new image of the Sun's outer atmosphere, the corona.&nbsp;



This image is essentially a mosaic assembled from high-resolution images taken by the Extreme Ultraviolet Imager (EUI) instrument on the same day in March 2023. The EUI captures images of the Sun in ultraviolet light.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="wWscNjX6hZ-4055472-12187" type="single"]</div>



Daniel Müller, Solar Orbiter's Project Scientist, noted that the Sun's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solar-dynamo-sun-magnetic-field-origin-generated-near-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic field</a> is key to understanding the dynamic nature of our home star from the smallest to the largest scales.&nbsp;



“These new high-resolution maps from Solar Orbiter's PHI instrument show the beauty of the Sun's surface magnetic field and flows in great detail,” said Miller.



“At the same time, they are crucial for inferring the magnetic field in the Sun's hot corona, which our EUI instrument is imaging.”&nbsp;



The image release builds upon one from two years ago when the mission shared full images of the Sun taken by the spacecraft's EUI and Spectral Imaging of the Coronal Environment (SPICE) instruments on March 7, 2022.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sunspots-and-a-chaotic-magnetic-field">Sunspots and a chaotic magnetic field</h2>



Zooming into PHI's detailed visible light images reveals the Sun's “surface” for what it truly is: a constantly moving layer of glowing, hot plasma (charged gas). 



This layer emits almost all the Sun's radiation and has a temperature between 4,500 and 6,000°C. 



Beneath it lies the convection zone, where hot, dense plasma churns similarly to magma in Earth's mantle. This turbulent movement gives the Sun's surface its grainy appearance.



The most striking features in the images are the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sun-solar-cycle-25-highest-number-sunspots-activity-seen-since-2001/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sunspots</a>. In the visible light images, these appear as dark spots or holes on the otherwise smooth surface. Sunspots are cooler than their surroundings, emitting less light as a result.



PHI's magnetic map, or “magnetogram," shows that the Sun's magnetic field is concentrated in the sunspot regions, pointing either outward (red) or inward (blue) where the sunspots lie.&nbsp;



The strong magnetic field explains why plasma inside sunspots is cooler. Normally, convection moves heat from inside the Sun to its surface, but this process is disrupted as charged particles are forced to follow the dense magnetic field lines in and around the sunspots.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-movement-on-the-surface">Mapping movement on the surface</h2>



The speed and direction of material movement on the Sun's surface are displayed in PHI's velocity map, also known as a “tachogram.”&nbsp;



In this map, blue indicates movement toward the spacecraft, while red signifies movement away. The map reveals that while the plasma on the Sun's surface generally rotates with the Sun's overall spin around its axis, it is pushed outward around the sunspots.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Solar-Orbiter_3-views-of-Sun_lenses_ESA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Solar-Orbiter_3-views-of-Sun_lenses_ESA_1s.webp" alt="The three views of the Sun's surface shown here are based on measurements taken on March 22, 2023 by the ESA-led Solar Orbiter mission. From left to right, you see the Sun in visible light, a magnetic map of the Sun, and a map of the line-of-sight speed and direction of movement of material at the Sun's visible surface. Credit: ESA" class="wp-image-1951400"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The three views of the Sun's surface shown here are based on measurements taken on March 22, 2023 by the ESA-led Solar Orbiter mission. From left to right, you see the Sun in visible light, a magnetic map of the Sun, and a map of the line-of-sight speed and direction of movement of material at the Sun's visible surface. Credit: ESA</figcaption></figure>



Finally, EUI's image of the Sun's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-is-the-suns-corona-hotter-than-its-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">corona</a> shows what happens above the photosphere. Above the active sunspot regions, glowing plasma protrudes outward. 



This million-degree plasma follows magnetic field lines extending from the Sun, often connecting neighboring sunspots.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-piecing-together-the-sun-s-mosaic">Piecing together the Sun's mosaic</h2>



The images were captured when the Solar Orbiter was less than 74 million kilometers from the Sun.&nbsp;



Being so close meant that each high-resolution image taken by PHI and EUI covered only a small portion of the Sun. To image the entire face, the spacecraft had to be tilted and rotated after each individual image was taken.



To create the full-disc images presented, all individual images were stitched together like a mosaic. Both the PHI and EUI mosaics consist of 25 images each, captured over more than four hours.&nbsp;



The resulting mosaics have a diameter of nearly 8,000 pixels, revealing an astonishing amount of detail.



The image processing required to produce the PHI mosaics was new and challenging. 



Now that it has been accomplished once, future data processing and mosaic assembly will be faster. The PHI team expects to provide such high-resolution mosaics twice a year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancing-our-understanding-of-the-sun">Advancing our understanding of the Sun</h2>



The new images not only showcase the beauty of our star but also enhance our understanding of its complex magnetic fields and dynamic processes.&nbsp;



By comparing data from different instruments, scientists can gain deeper insights into how the Sun's magnetic field influences phenomena from the smallest to the largest scales.



With continued efforts from missions like Solar Orbiter, we are peeling back the layers of the Sun to better comprehend its impact on our Solar System.



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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Solar Orbiter spacecraft sees the Sun through three different lenses

The ESA-led Solar Orbiter mission is currently observing and studying...

You probably know at least a little bit about ocean circulation around the world, also known as currents. In fact, you may have felt smaller currents yourself on a day at the beach.



But have you heard bout the "great global ocean conveyor belt," which is a vast network of currents that constantly moves water around the entire planet?



This massive system helps distribute heat around the world, influencing everything from temperatures to rainfall. Unfortunately, it's slowing down and on the verge of total collapse.



Scientists have been studying this phenomenon, and according to recent research published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01568-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>, it's a bigger deal than we thought. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-circulation-and-the-amoc">Ocean circulation and the AMOC?</h2>



The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, or AMOC, is like a massive ocean conveyor belt that moves warm and cold water around the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-the-atlantic-ocean-may-ultimately-vanish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atlantic Ocean</a>. 



It starts in the Gulf of Mexico, where warm, salty water flows northward along the eastern coast of the United States and across the Atlantic towards Europe. 



As this warm water reaches the North Atlantic, it cools down, becomes denser, and sinks deep into the ocean. 



This sinking process pulls more warm water north to replace it, creating a continuous loop that helps <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/collapse-of-major-ocean-system-would-cause-weather-chaos/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regulate the climate</a> by distributing heat across the planet. 



Thanks to the AMOC, regions like Western Europe enjoy milder winters than they would otherwise.



Humans rely on the AMOC in several important ways. By regulating global temperatures, it helps maintain stable weather patterns, which are crucial for agriculture, ecosystems, and our daily lives. 



Researchers point out that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is now weaker than at any other time in the past 1,000 years.



The research team from several leading universities explains that global warming is behind this slowdown. 



Their new modeling suggests that meltwater from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenlands-melting-icebergs-may-not-be-threat-to-ocean-currents-amoc/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland ice sheet</a> and Canadian glaciers could be the missing piece of the puzzle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-should-we-care-about-this">Why should we care about this?</h2>



"Our results show the Atlantic overturning circulation is likely to become a third weaker than it was 70 years ago at 2°C of global warming," says the research team. 



"This would bring big changes to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-arctic-is-melting-fast-but-a-slowing-ocean-current-could-help/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate and ecosystems</a>, including faster warming in the southern hemisphere, harsher winters in Europe, and weakening of the northern hemisphere's tropical monsoons."



Think about that for a second. A weaker ocean current could mean colder winters in Europe and shifts in rainfall patterns that affect millions of people. It's not just about the ocean; <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disastrous-climate-changes-of-the-last-ice-age-could-happen-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">it's about our daily lives</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meltwater-and-ocean-circulation">Meltwater and ocean circulation</h2>



The Earth has already warmed 1.5ºC since the industrial revolution. And get this: the Arctic has been heating up nearly four times faster than the rest of the planet. 



All that heat is melting Arctic sea ice, glaciers, and the Greenland ice sheet.



"Since 2002, Greenland lost 5,900 billion tons (gigatons) of ice," notes the research team. "To put that into perspective, imagine if the entire state of Texas was covered in ice 26 feet thick."



All this fresh meltwater flowing into the subarctic ocean is lighter than salty seawater, so it doesn't sink as much. 



That messes with the southward flow of deep, cold waters from the Atlantic and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-impact-the-gulf-stream-more-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weakens the Gulf Stream</a> -- the same current that gives Britain its mild winters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ripple-effects-around-the-globe">Ripple effects around the globe</h2>



So, what's the big deal with the Gulf Stream slowing down? Well, for starters, Europe could face harsher winters. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-paradox-ocean-current-collapse-could-plunge-europe-into-cold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Places like Britain</a> might start feeling more like their chilly counterparts at the same latitude, such as parts of Canada.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Atlantic-Meridional-Overturning-Circulation_AMOC_collapsing_Nature-Geoscience_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Atlantic-Meridional-Overturning-Circulation_AMOC_collapsing_Nature-Geoscience_1s.webp" alt="The addition of meltwater in the North Atlantic leads to localised cooling in the subpolar North Atlantic and warming in the South Atlantic. Credit: Nature Geoscience (2024)." class="wp-image-1951410" style="width:300px;height:auto"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The addition of meltwater in the North Atlantic leads to localised cooling in the subpolar North Atlantic and warming in the South Atlantic. Credit: Nature Geoscience (2024).</figcaption></figure>



"Our new research shows meltwater from the Greenland ice sheet and Arctic glaciers in Canada is the missing piece in the climate puzzle," the researchers explain. 



When they included this meltwater in their simulations, the slowing of the oceanic circulation made sense.



The study confirms that the Atlantic overturning circulation has been slowing down since the mid-20th century. It also gives us a sneak peek into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atlantic-and-arctic-mixing-is-crucial-for-earths-climate-stability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">what's coming next</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-northern-and-southern-oceans-connected">Northern and Southern oceans connected</h2>



"Our new research also shows the North and South Atlantic oceans are more connected than previously thought," the team states. 



Changes in one part of the ocean can quickly affect distant regions. When the oceanic circulation is strong, it transfers a lot of heat to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-warming-triggers-rising-north-atlantic-sea-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Atlantic</a>. 



But when it weakens, the surface of the ocean south of Greenland doesn't warm up as much, leading to what's called a "warming hole." Meanwhile, the South Atlantic ends up storing more heat and salt.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-time-is-not-on-our-side">Time is not on our side</h2>



"Our simulations show changes in the far North Atlantic are felt in the South Atlantic Ocean in less than two decades," the researchers reveal. This means the effects of the slowdown are spreading faster than we thought.



Climate projections have suggested the Atlantic overturning circulation will weaken by about 30% by 2060. But hold on -- that's without considering all that extra meltwater.



"The Greenland ice sheet will continue melting over the coming century, possibly raising global sea level by about 4 inches," the study notes. 



"If this additional meltwater is included in climate projections, the overturning circulation will weaken faster. It could be 30% weaker by 2040. That's 20 years earlier than initially projected."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-can-we-do">What can we do?</h2>



Such a rapid decrease in the overturning circulation will shake things up. 



Europe might see colder winters, the northern tropics could get drier, and places like the southern United States might experience warmer, wetter summers.



"Our climate has changed dramatically over the past 20 years," the researchers warn. "More rapid melting of the ice sheets will accelerate further disruption of the climate system."



So, what does this all mean for us? It means we have even less time to get our act together. Reducing emissions isn't just a good idea -- it's crucial.



Our planet's systems are interconnected in ways we're only beginning to understand. If we want to keep things from getting worse, we need to act now. Every little bit counts, and the clock is ticking.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01568-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>.



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Collapse of Earth's main ocean water circulation system is already happening

You probably know at least a little bit about ocean...

A,Vintage,World,Globe,Tilted,And,Standing,On,A,Central

Picture this: every time you use water from your tap, you're inadvertently influencing our Earth's rotational tilt and climate change. Strange, and not a good thing, but true.



Our planet is a dynamic entity, constantly shifting and adapting. Believe it or not, something as seemingly insignificant as our water usage can cause Earth's physical orientation to deviate. 



Over less than two decades, our groundwater pumping has tilted the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-days-getting-longer-rotation-slows-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a> by 31.5 inches. To put this into perspective, this water redistribution equates to approximately 0.24 inches of sea-level rise.



“Our study shows that among climate-related causes, the redistribution of groundwater actually has the largest impact on the drift of the rotational pole,” said Ki-Weon Seo, a geophysicist at <a href="https://en.snu.ac.kr/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seoul National University</a>.



So, before you dismiss the power of your water usage, remember, even the smallest actions have consequences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-exactly-is-groundwater">What exactly is groundwater?</h2>



Groundwater is the water that sits beneath the Earth's surface, filling up the spaces in soil, sand, and rock formations. 



It comes from rain and other precipitation that soaks into the ground, gradually making its way down to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/millions-of-people-in-the-u-s-rely-on-contaminated-groundwater/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">underground reservoirs</a> called aquifers. 



Unlike the water you see in rivers and lakes, groundwater is hidden away, acting like nature’s hidden water bank. 



It plays a crucial role in the water cycle, providing a steady supply of water even during dry spells when surface water might be scarce.



Humans rely on groundwater for a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/groundwater-has-a-vital-role-in-ecosystem-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">variety of essential needs</a>. Many people use it as their primary source of drinking water, especially in rural areas where surface water isn't readily available. 



Farmers depend on groundwater for irrigating crops, ensuring that food production can continue even when there's not enough rain. Additionally, industries use groundwater for manufacturing processes and cooling systems. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-groundwater-s-role-in-earth-s-tilt">Groundwater's role in Earth's tilt</h2>



The study, which included data from 1993 through 2010, showed that pumping as much as 2,150 gigatons of groundwater has caused a shift in the Earth's tilt. 



These figures are hard to comprehend, but they reflect our intense water consumption for irrigation and human use.



We may not think about where our water goes after we use it, but most of it ends up being transported to the oceans. 



“Observing changes in Earth’s rotational pole is useful for understanding continent-scale water storage variations,” said Seo.



Linking these variations to water movement, particularly from western North America and northwestern India, shows how our everyday actions can impact the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-rotation-is-shifting-toward-a-25-hour-day/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a> on a global scale.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rotational-pole-drift">Rotational pole drift</h2>



Alongside influencing our planet's tilt and rotation, groundwater pumping paints an alarming picture for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/groundwater-temperatures-may-rise-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consequences of climate change</a>.



“I’m very glad to find the unexplained cause of the rotation pole drift. On the other hand, as a resident of Earth and a father, I’m concerned and surprised that pumping groundwater is another source of sea-level rise,” said Seo.



These findings might seem overwhelming, especially considering the challenges we already face in combating climate change. 



However, understanding the impact of groundwater pumping on Earth's tilt and climate is a step in the right direction.



This knowledge can potentially guide conservationists toward effective strategies to mitigate further sea-level rise and other climate issues.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-groundwater-pumping-and-polar-motion">Groundwater pumping and polar motion</h2>



The new revelations about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/groundwater-depletion-is-accelerating-but-it-is-not-inevitable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">groundwater pumping</a> open new doors for our understanding of climate change and our capacity for action.



"They’ve quantified the role of groundwater pumping on polar motion, and it’s pretty significant," said Surendra Adhikari, a research scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (<a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JPL</a>).



The potential for change isn't exclusive to scientists and researchers. As individuals, we can adapt our habits and live more sustainably. 



This awareness around groundwater pumping's global impact should empower us to reconsider our everyday water usage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-and-policy-initiatives">Future research and policy initiatives </h2>



Given the significant findings of the study, future research and policy initiatives must prioritize sustainable groundwater management to mitigate its adverse impacts on Earth's rotation and climate change. 



It is imperative to balance human needs with environmental conservation, which requires innovative approaches to water usage, such as enhanced irrigation <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-moon-is-drifting-away-and-earth-will-never-be-the-same-without-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">systems</a>, rainwater harvesting, and improved municipal water management. 



Furthermore, global cooperation among countries is essential to create comprehensive policies that address the equitable distribution and consumption of water resources. 



By encouraging multidisciplinary collaboration among geophysicists, climate scientists, policy-makers, and the public, we can develop a robust framework for more sustainable water management practices. 



Such initiatives not only hold promise for protecting Earth's rotational stability but also contribute to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-now-the-driving-force-behind-droughts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">broader climate change</a> mitigation efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-taps-tilting-the-earth">Water taps tilting the Earth</h2>



The journey towards understanding and combating climate change is a long and complex one. But in this struggle, knowledge is power. 



Understanding the impact of groundwater pumping is an invaluable tool in our arsenal.



As we look to the future, let's harness this knowledge and strive for a more sustainable world.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023GL103509" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a>.



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Earth's rotation has tilted 31.5 inches, and humans are 100% to blame

Picture this: every time you use water from your tap,...

The alphabet holds a unique place in human history, and every new discovery about its origins can illuminate our past and challenge long-held beliefs. 



Its simplicity and adaptability transformed the way humans communicated, laying the foundation for countless languages and cultures. 



Each breakthrough brings us closer to understanding how early societies transitioned from complex symbols to accessible scripts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oldest-alphabet-ever-found">Oldest alphabet ever found</h2>



A recent phenomenal finding has done just that - it’s reshaping what we know about the beginnings of alphabetic writing.



Our story begins in Syria, where a team from <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins University</a> made an unexpected discovery.



The researchers unearthed finger-length clay cylinders from an ancient tomb, etched with what appears to be the oldest alphabet in known human history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-alpha-of-alphabets">The alpha of alphabets</h2>



This incredible finding dates back to approximately 2400 BCE, which is a staggering 500 years older than any other known alphabetic scripts. 



This revelation is monumental as it overthrows previously held theories about the origins of alphabets, and how they were adopted by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-cores-show-that-early-societies-were-dominated-by-climate-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early societies</a>, changing their lifestyle and course of civilization.



Glenn Schwartz is a professor of archaeology at Johns Hopkins University and one of the lead researchers who discovered the clay cylinders.



"Alphabets revolutionized writing by making it accessible to people beyond royalty and the socially elite," said Professor Schwartz. 



"Alphabetic writing changed the way people lived, how they thought, how they communicated. And this new discovery shows that people were experimenting with new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-holograms-future-of-secure-messaging-encryption-internet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communication technologies</a> much earlier and in a different location than we had imagined before now."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-digging-deeper-into-the-past">Digging deeper into the past</h2>



The story behind this discovery unfolds at Tell Umm-el Marra, an early urban center in Western Syria. A group of archaeologists, including experts from the University of Amsterdam, embarked on a 16-year excavation journey at this site.



The fruitful outcome of their dedication was the unearthing of tombs from the Early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bronze-age-teeth-discovery-highlight-the-evolution-of-the-human-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bronze Age</a>. Among these tombs, one stood out - the final resting place of six individuals, adorned with gold and silver jewelry, cookware, a spearhead, and intact <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baltic-pottery-reveals-ancient-culinary-traditions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pottery vessels</a>.



Interestingly, found next to the pottery were four lightly baked clay cylinders, etched with what seems to be alphabetic writing. 



"The cylinders were perforated, so I’m imagining a string tethering them to another object to act as a label. Maybe they detail the contents of a vessel, or maybe where the vessel came from, or who it belonged to. Without a means to translate the writing, we can only speculate," said Professor Schwartz. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-chapter-for-the-alphabet">A new chapter for the alphabet?</h2>



Thanks to advanced carbon-14 dating techniques, the researchers were able to confirm the ages of the tombs, the artifacts, and the writing. 



The discovery challenges existing theories about the birth of the alphabet. It shifts our understanding of the origins of alphabetic writing, hinting at an entirely different narrative, as Professor Schwartz explained.



"Previously, scholars thought the alphabet was invented in or around Egypt sometime after 1900 BCE,” said Schwartz. "But our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monkey-stone-tools-look-like-early-human-artifacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artifacts</a> are older and from a different area on the map, suggesting the alphabet may have an entirely different origin story than we previously thought.”



The research highlights the importance of continuous exploration in our endeavor to comprehend our past and understand its impact on our present and future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-impact-of-alphabetic-discoveries">Broader impact of alphabetic discoveries</h2>



The discovery of the oldest known alphabet in Syria does more than just challenge existing theories - it offers a deeper understanding of how early societies communicated and evolved.



Alphabetic writing, unlike the pictograms and logograms used in earlier writing systems, simplified communication, making it more accessible to wider populations. 



This democratization of writing could have been a pivotal factor in advancing trade, governance, and cultural exchanges among early civilizations.



The implications of the ancient alphabet extend beyond archaeology. Linguists, historians, and even technology researchers could gain insights into the roots of structured communication systems.



Understanding the origins of the alphabet also helps contextualize its influence on modern languages and scripts, illustrating its role as a building block for contemporary literacy and education.



Image Credit: Glenn Schwartz, Johns Hopkins University



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Oldest known alphabet discovered in Syria

The alphabet holds a unique place in human history, and...

A recent NASA-funded study has deepened the enigma of why life uses molecules with specific orientations.&nbsp;



Researchers have discovered that RNA - a crucial molecule thought to have potentially carried life's instructions before DNA emerged - can favor making the building blocks of proteins in either left-handed or right-handed forms. This finding could provide valuable clues to the origin of life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-puzzle-of-life-s-molecular-orientation">The puzzle of life's molecular orientation</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-life-begins-egg-sperm-and-a-covert-team-of-proteins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proteins</a> are essential molecules in all living organisms, serving functions from structural components like hair to enzymes that speed up or regulate chemical reactions. 



Similar to how the 26 letters of the alphabet combine to form countless words, life uses 20 different amino acids in a vast array of arrangements to create millions of different proteins.&nbsp;



Some amino acids exist in two mirror-image forms, like left and right hands, but life predominantly uses the left-handed variety - a phenomenon known as homochirality.&nbsp;



Scientists remain puzzled about why life chose left-handed amino acids over right-handed ones, especially since life based on right-handed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-the-building-blocks-of-life-form/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amino acids</a> would presumably function just as well.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-rna-world-hypothesis">Exploring the “RNA world” hypothesis</h2>



DNA holds the instructions for building and maintaining living organisms but is complex and specialized. It “subcontracts” the work of reading instructions to RNA molecules and building proteins to ribosomes.&nbsp;



Due to DNA's complexity, scientists theorize that a simpler molecule preceded it billions of years ago during early life evolution. RNA, capable of both storing genetic information and building proteins, is a leading candidate, giving rise to the “<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rna-world-unraveling-mysteries-life-origin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RNA world</a>” hypothesis.



If this proposition is correct, perhaps something about RNA caused it to favor building left-handed proteins over right-handed ones.&nbsp;



However, the new research did not support this idea, deepening the mystery of why life favored left-handed proteins.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-evolutionary-pressures-nbsp">The role of evolutionary pressures&nbsp;</h2>



The experiment tested RNA molecules that act like enzymes to build proteins, called ribozymes.&nbsp;



“The experiment demonstrated that ribozymes can favor either left- or right-handed amino acids, indicating that RNA worlds, in general, would not necessarily have a strong bias for the form of amino acids we observe in biology now,” said corresponding author Irene Chen, a scientist at the <a href="https://www.ucla.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Los Angeles</a> (UCLA) Samueli School of Engineering.



In simulating potential early-Earth conditions of the RNA world, researchers incubated a solution containing ribozymes and amino acid precursors to observe the relative percentages of right-handed and left-handed phenylalanine amino acids produced.&nbsp;



They tested 15 different ribozyme combinations and found that ribozymes can favor either left-handed or right-handed amino acids. This lack of inherent preference challenges the notion that early life was predisposed to select left-handed amino acids, which dominate in modern proteins.



“The findings suggest that life’s eventual homochirality might not be a result of chemical determinism but could have emerged through later evolutionary pressures,” said co-author Alberto Vázquez-Salazar, a UCLA postdoctoral scholar and member of Chen’s research group.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-understanding-life-s-origins">Implications for understanding life's origins</h2>



Earth's prebiotic history predates the oldest fossil records, which have been erased by plate tectonics - the slow movement of Earth's crust.&nbsp;



During that time, the planet was likely bombarded by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-would-happen-small-asteroid-hit-earth-nasa-ai-simulation-found-out/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asteroids</a>, which may have delivered some of life's building blocks, such as amino acids. Alongside chemical experiments, other origin-of-life researchers are examining molecular evidence from meteorites and asteroids.



Study co-author Jason Dworkin is a senior scientist for astrobiology at NASA’s <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goddard Space Flight Center</a> in Greenbelt, Maryland, and director of <a href="https://science.gsfc.nasa.gov/691/analytical/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goddard’s Astrobiology Analytical Laboratory</a>.



Dworkin is also the project scientist on NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission - which extracted samples from the asteroid Bennu and delivered them to Earth.



“Understanding the chemical properties of life helps us know what to look for in our search for life across the solar system,” said Dworkin.&nbsp;



“We are analyzing OSIRIS-REx samples for the chirality (handedness) of individual amino acids, and in the future, samples from Mars will also be tested in laboratories for evidence of life including ribozymes and proteins.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-search-for-life-s-molecular-secrets">The search for life's molecular secrets</h2>



This discovery adds complexity to our understanding of life's molecular orientations, suggesting that homochirality might not have resulted from initial chemical conditions but could have developed due to evolutionary factors.&nbsp;



The findings prompt further research into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-clues-about-the-origins-of-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">origins of life</a> and may influence how scientists search for life beyond Earth.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-52362-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



Image Credit: NASA



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Life’s molecular orientation: New discovery deepens the mystery

A recent NASA-funded study has deepened the enigma of why...

For the past two months, a small asteroid named 2024 PT5 has been keeping Earth company, acting as a temporary "mini-moon." This week, it's set to drift away, pulled by the stronger gravity of the sun.



Richard Binzel, an astronomer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (<a href="https://www.mit.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIT</a>), has been following these kinds of celestial visitors for years. 



"These happen more often than we think, but they're small and tough to spot," Binzel explained. "Only lately have our telescopes become powerful enough to catch them regularly."



In August, a team of astronomers from the <a href="https://www.ucm.es/english" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Complutense University</a> of Madrid detected 2024 PT5 using a powerful telescope in Sutherland, South Africa. 



They weren't the only ones watching; NASA's Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (<a href="https://fallingstar.com/home.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ATLAS</a>) at Haleakala Observatory in Hawaii first noticed the asteroid on August 7, 2024.



This discovery has excited astronomers, offering a rare chance to learn more about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-test-simulation-shows-earth-not-prepared-prevent-large-asteroid-strike/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">near-Earth objects</a>. But what exactly is 2024 PT5, and why does it matter?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2024-pt5-tiny-asteroid-big-role">2024 PT5: Tiny asteroid, big role</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/its-official-earth-now-has-two-moons-captured-asteroid-2024-pt5/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth occasionally captures small asteroids</a> like 2024 PT5, placing them into temporary orbits around our planet. 



While most asteroids orbit the sun on regular paths, some come close enough for Earth's gravity to grab them for a brief visit. 



These cosmic hitchhikers stay with us for a short time -- typically a few weeks or months -- before breaking free and continuing their journey around the sun.



"All mini-moons are unique in their own way," said William Blackmore, Planetarium Director and Astronomy Instructor at <a href="https://www.mhcc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mt. Hood Community College</a>. "This one isn't different from others except that it's the most recent."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comparing-2024-pt5-to-the-moon">Comparing 2024 PT5 to the Moon</h2>



To put things into perspective, 2024 PT5 is about 37 feet across. In contrast, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-earth-get-its-moon-a-new-theory-has-emerged/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's main moon</a> stretches a massive 2,159 miles in diameter. 



That makes our moon over 300,000 times wider than this tiny asteroid. Knowing it's up there is pretty exciting, even if we can't see it without some serious telescopic equipment.



"These temporary captures are natural cosmic laboratories," Binzel mentioned. "They help us understand the small bodies that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/27500-hidden-near-earth-asteroids-discovered-using-google-cloud/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">come close to Earth</a> and could be important for future space missions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-2024-pt5-became-a-mini-moon">How 2024 PT5 became a mini-moon</h2>



Understanding how 2024 PT5 became Earth's temporary companion involves a bit of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/finding-order-in-the-chaos-of-the-three-body-problem/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orbital mechanics</a>. 



Blackmore explained, "It's moving along with us in our orbit around the sun. It's part of a group of asteroids called the Arjuna asteroids, which move at about the same pace as Earth."



He added an analogy to make it clearer: 



"Imagine a skateboarder dropping into a skate park. They ride the curves, adding energy as they go. That's like the asteroid getting caught in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dart-mission-debris-will-create-a-human-made-meteor-shower/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's gravitational field</a>, riding the curve before moving on."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spotting-mini-moons-like-2024-pt5">Spotting mini-moons like 2024 PT5</h2>



Catching sight of mini-moons is no easy task. 



They're incredibly small and faint, often just a few dozen feet across, which means they don't reflect much sunlight. This makes them nearly invisible against the dark backdrop of space.



Astronomers use powerful telescopes equipped with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gaia-reveals-moons-around-hundreds-of-asteroids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sensitive detectors and smart software</a> to find them. 



Projects like the ATLAS system scan the skies every night, searching for any objects that weren't there before. 



When they spot something moving in a way that suggests it's close to Earth, they alert other astronomers to help confirm the find.



"It's a collaborative effort," Blackmore said. "Combining technology and teamwork helps us spot these elusive cosmic visitors."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-any-of-this-matter">Why does any of this matter?</h2>



While 2024 PT5 doesn't pose any threat to Earth, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-there-a-fifth-force-of-nature-asteroids-provide-new-clues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studying it is crucial</a>. 



"It's important to analyze how it moves and interacts with Earth's gravitational pull," Blackmore noted. "This helps us refine our techniques for tracking objects that could cross our path again."



Another expert, Todd, highlighted the practical applications of this knowledge. 



"We need to understand how to intercept an asteroid at a distance and change its direction," he said. "This could be vital in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-dart-mission-proves-humanity-can-be-saved-from-asteroid-collision/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">preventing potential impacts</a> in the future."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-observing-2024-pt5">Challenges in observing 2024 PT5</h2>



For those eager to see this mini-moon, experts warn that it would be extremely difficult. 



"You'd need a telescope with a diameter of at least 30 inches," Blackmore mentioned. "That's beyond what most amateur astronomers have."



Todd agreed, adding, "It won't be visible to the naked eye. Being 33 feet wide and so far away, you'd need a very large telescope."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inspiration-for-future-space-missions">Inspiration for future space missions</h2>



Blackmore envisioned future missions that could take advantage of these temporary visitors. 



"It would be fascinating if we had missions ready to send small satellites or probes to these objects when they come close," he mused. "Imagine building a network of sensors or cameras traveling along with us, like space webcams."



Todd also saw potential in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-named-psyche-is-worth-10000-quadrillion-for-whoever-can-extract-minerals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asteroid mining</a> and scientific discovery. 



"There might be materials on these asteroids that we can't find on Earth," he said. "They could solve problems in medicine or technology. But we need to weigh the benefits carefully."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brief-visit-with-a-lasting-impact">Brief visit with a lasting impact</h2>



The short stay of asteroid 2024 PT5 serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of our solar system. While it didn't stick around long, its presence offered valuable opportunities for learning and exploration.



As technology advances, we'll likely spot more of these mini-moons. Each one gives us a chance to understand our cosmic environment better and prepare for the future.



The full study was published in the&nbsp;<a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2515-5172/ad781f" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">journal IOPscience</a>.



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Earth has lost its mini-moon, which may have come from our main Moon

For the past two months, a small asteroid named 2024...

In the world of science, we often focus on what we see. We examine what is visible, tangible, and easy to perceive with our own two eyes. But what about the sounds of the past - more specifically, the sounds of dinosaurs?



How can we possibly know what a creature from millions of years ago sounded like? Well, this can be answered using paleoacoustics.



Before we dive into the how, let's take a moment to consider what we are talking about. Picture the Parasaurolophus - a duck-billed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-triassic-fossil-gondwanax-paraisensis-may-rewrite-history-of-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur</a> with a unique crest.



This huge creature, standing around 16 feet tall and weighing between 6,000 to 8,000 pounds, dominated the landscapes some 70 million to 80 million years ago. It has been named in many science fiction films and dinosaur-themed games.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-dinosaur-sounds">Decoding dinosaur sounds</h2>



Sound is essentially vibrations traveling through the air. These vibrations hit our eardrums, get converted into electrical signals, and are interpreted by our brains. 



But for creatures like the Parasaurolophus, with unique physical attributes, their sounds would have been produced and resonated differently.



The starting point to understanding how the Parasaurolophus might have sounded is through mathematical modeling. 



Sounds a bit strange, doesn't it? But it's not just number crunching. Math is a universal language that is able to represent complex physical phenomena in a way that can be computed, simulated, and even visualized.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-what-dinosaurs-sounded-like">Exploring what dinosaurs sounded like</h2>



Enter our scientist, Hongjun Lin, a researcher at <a href="https://www.nyu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York University</a> who is on a mission to decode the sounds of the past.



He presented his research on the acoustic characteristics of a physical model of the Parasaurolophus' crest at the 187th Meeting of the Acoustical Society of America in November 2024.



"I've been fascinated by giant animals ever since I was a kid. I'd spend hours reading books, watching movies, and imagining what it would be like if <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carnian-pluvial-episode-one-million-years-of-rain-triggered-dinosaur-takeover-of-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaurs</a> were still around today," said Lin.



But a realization in college sparked a new direction for Lin's passion. "It wasn't until college that I realized the sounds we hear in movies and shows - while mesmerizing - are completely fabricated using sounds from modern animals."



"That's when I decided to dive deeper and explore what dinosaurs might have actually sounded like."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-dinosaur-sounds">Creating dinosaur sounds</h2>



To bring mathematics into the tangible realm, Lin created a physical setup - affectionately named the "Linophone." It is made of tubes that resemble the resonance chambers used in musical instruments.



This theoretical model, despite its simplicity, was pivotal in approximating what was happening acoustically inside the Parasaurolophus' crest.



The Linophone isn’t a perfect replica of the Parasaurolophus, but it's a stepping stone - a means to verify the mathematical framework.



Lin's initial findings suggest that the Parasaurolophus' crest was used for resonance, a phenomenon not unfamiliar to us - it’s the same principle that gives birds their unique songs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-do-we-go-from-here">Where do we go from here?</h2>



The journey has just begun. Lin's research is far from complete, and the mathematical model is still a work in progress. 



But the implications of this study extend beyond just dinosaurs. This research paves the way for studying animals with similar vocal structures, leading to a deeper understanding of Earth's ancient inhabitants.



The idea doesn't stop there. Lin shares his plan for the future - an accessible plug-in for people to experiment with and even incorporate dinosaur sounds into music. Can you imagine rock and roll with a dash of Parasaurolophus?



"Once we have a working model, we'll move toward using&nbsp;fossil&nbsp;scans," Lin said. "My ultimate goal is to re-create the sound of the Parasaurolophus."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-how-dinosaurs-communicated">Understanding how dinosaurs communicated</h2>



Understanding how dinosaurs communicated provides insights into their social structures and behaviors. The Parasaurolophus, with its crest capable of producing distinctive sounds, is a fascinating subject to explore these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/qunkasaura-pintiquiniestra-new-sauropod-dinosaur-discovered-in-spain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dynamics</a>. 



This anatomical feature may have allowed it to generate low-frequency calls, which could travel across long distances - a valuable adaptation for herd communication over expansive territories.



Such communication would have played a pivotal role in coordinating movement, warning of approaching predators, or even engaging in mating rituals. 



As research progresses, scientists hope to unravel whether these sounds were unique to each species, locality, or even individual, offering a more nuanced picture of dinosaur life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-the-research">Broader implications of the research </h2>



While Lin's work has primarily focused on recreating the sounds of the Parasaurolophus, the broader implications of paleoacoustic research are vast. 



By refining techniques and understanding, scientists can apply these methods to other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nadir-crater-second-massive-asteroid-impact-discovered-dinosaur-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prehistoric animals</a>, providing a comprehensive soundtrack of the past. These innovations bolster educational tools, allowing students and enthusiasts worldwide to engage more deeply with Earth's history through sound. 



The field also enriches other disciplines, such as paleontology, biology, and acoustics - promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative thinking.



As the boundaries of current research continue to expand, so too does our capacity to connect with the ancient world, transforming silent fossils into a symphony of prehistory.



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What did dinosaurs sound like?

In the world of science, we often focus on what...

The Arctic plays an increasingly important role in global discussions about rising sea levels and the threats they pose to coastal areas around the world.



With this in mind, it is necessary to explore the intricate process of calving - where ice breaks away from a glacier's edge.



This phenomenon significantly contributes to sea-level rise, which makes it imperative that we understand the process and can use it to predict future changes in our world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arctic-exploration-with-sentinel-1">Arctic exploration with Sentinel-1</h2>



A recent stride forward in this quest for understanding has been made by a remarkable collaboration between I-SEA (based in France) and <a href="https://www.norceresearch.no/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NORCE</a> (from Norway). 



As part of the Space for Shore project, the scientists have made extensive use of over a thousand images from the Sentinel-1 mission.



Their purpose? To meticulously monitor the evolution of Svalbard's coastal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-worlds-glaciers-contain-less-ice-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a>.



The Sentinel-1 mission, a key element of the European Union’s Copernicus Program, employed synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology to capture high-resolution data in the challenging Arctic conditions.



Thanks to this technology, there is now consistent, year-round monitoring of these critical glaciers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-calving-activity">Measuring calving activity</h2>



Using Sentinel-1 data between 2015 and 2023, the researchers were able to map glacier front lines and measure calving activity during <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/svalbard-melts-into-the-arctic-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Svalbard</a>’s summer months, the period when calving intensities peak.



One significant breakthrough was the ability to define the summer glacier fronts. 



The researchers examined images taken between July and September and were able to identify summer glacier fronts as areas where glacier extent is maintained 95% of the time during these months.



What's more, the team found a way to understand summer calving intensity by observing floating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/iceberg-that-weighs-more-than-the-eiffel-tower-is-floating-freely/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">icebergs</a> and growlers. 



Interestingly, summers with a higher occurrence of these ice masses indicate more active calving and accelerated glacier retreat. These are crucial signs of a glacier’s health and stability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-changes-in-arctic-glaciers">Observing changes in Arctic glaciers</h2>



In Kongsfjorden, one of the primary study areas, glaciers like Kronebreen and Kongsvegen showed significant changes.



Daily Sentinel-1 observations were used to classify the region into areas of glacier, iceberg, and growler occurrence.



 The Sentinel-1 method "provides a statistically defined composite of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-free-arctic-summers-could-be-the-new-normal-by-2030/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">summer glacier</a> front positions and calving intensities, revealing the dynamic interactions between ice and ocean over time," explained Jörg Haarpaintner, a team member from NORCE.



Manon Tranchand, the project's lead researcher, noted that this analysis paints a clear picture of current changes in Arctic glaciers.



"They're crucial for predicting the future impacts of climate change on these sensitive regions," said Tranchand. 



"Without the consistent, high-resolution data from Sentinel-1, monitoring these dynamic ice-ocean interactions wouldn't be possible. Ongoing warming is likely to accelerate ice loss, and our data show how that could contribute to global sea-level rise. Sentinel-1’s capabilities allow us to capture these shifts with unprecedented accuracy."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-launch-of-sentinel-1c">The launch of Sentinel-1C</h2>



Scheduled for launch next month, Sentinel-1C represents a significant leap forward in the monitoring of Arctic glaciers and global climate impacts.



The soon-to-be addition to the Sentinel-1 mission will offer enhanced radar imaging capabilities and improved continuity for crucial climate research.



With its advanced capabilities, Sentinel-1C will amplify our ability to capture detailed, year-round data on glacier front lines, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birth-of-an-iceberg-a-83-breaks-free-from-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">calving</a> rates, and ice-ocean interactions, even amidst the challenging conditions of the Arctic. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-implications-of-arctic-ice-loss">Global implications of Arctic ice loss</h2>



The insights gained from monitoring Arctic glacier calving extend far beyond the region itself. 



As glaciers retreat and calving intensifies, the influx of freshwater into the oceans disrupts natural currents, including the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), a critical component of Earth's climate system. 



This disruption could lead to significant shifts in weather patterns, such as harsher winters in Europe and intensified monsoons in South Asia.



Moreover, Arctic ice loss exacerbates the global feedback loop of climate change. As ice melts, it exposes darker ocean water, which absorbs more sunlight, accelerating warming - a phenomenon known as the albedo effect.



These changes not only impact the Arctic's fragile ecosystems but also have cascading effects on biodiversity, fisheries, and human livelihoods worldwide.



By understanding the intricacies of glacier calving through missions like Sentinel-1, researchers are equipping policymakers with the tools to anticipate and mitigate these far-reaching impacts. 



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Satellite images reveal hidden retreat of Arctic glaciers

The Arctic plays an increasingly important role in global discussions...

Our food choices hold immense power. Not just over our personal health, but also for the Earth itself. Shifting towards sustainable diets can significantly combat climate change and food scarcity. 



But, implementing such changes on a global scale requires delicacy due to the interconnectedness of our global food network.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-food-chain">Global food chain</h2>



The world's food system is a complex, interconnected web. A shift in food demand in one corner of the globe can have far-reaching effects on people in other parts of the world, often in ways we might not initially anticipate. 



“Changes in food demand in one part of the world can have cascading environmental and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-you-eat-can-literally-change-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human welfare</a> implications for people around the world),” said Joe DeCesaro, data analyst at UC Santa Barbara’s&nbsp;National Center for Ecological Analysis &amp; Synthesis (<a href="https://www.nceas.ucsb.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCEAS</a>).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-the-global-diet-shifts">Decoding the global diet shifts</h2>



To navigate the complexity of the global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-food-day-fighting-global-hunger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food system</a> and ensure a healthy population and planet, a comprehensive shift in our global diet is needed. 



DeCesaro, along with a team of international researchers, embarked on the ambitious mission to understand where and how environmental pressures might occur within global dietary shifts.



The experts analyzed four types of diets - Indian, Mediterranean, EAT-Lancet (primarily plant-based), and food-based dietary guidelines (FBDGs).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tale-of-four-diets">Tale of four diets</h2>



The team's findings, published in the journal Environmental Research Letters, show that the Indian diet emerging as the most beneficial of the four, estimated to reduce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeding-children-healthy-diets-can-be-very-challenging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food</a> production-based global environmental pressure by a remarkable 20.9 percent.



On the other hand, the food-based dietary guidelines were projected to potentially increase environmental pressure by a staggering 35.2 percent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-food-system-and-sustainable-diets">Global food system and sustainable diets</h2>



Our global food system is a major player in environmental change. It is linked to about a third of global greenhouse gas emissions and over 70% of freshwater resources.



Shifting towards a more sustainable diet - leaning away from resource-intensive foods like red meat - can decrease the environmental pressure, bring health benefits, and increase the intake of nutrient-dense foods like vegetables and legumes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-bears-the-environmental-burden">Who bears the environmental burden?</h2>



The research team's curiosity didn't end at understanding the impact of dietary changes. They sought to find out who would bear the environmental burden brought on by these diet shifts. 



“The research was motivated originally by the question: Who’s consumption is generating the pressures of food production that are being felt by people and places around the world?” DeCesaro noted.



“Are poorer countries paying the environmental price of producing higher pressure foods that are being eaten by richer countries or vice versa? Our methods allow us to track changes in the environmental pressures from the producer to the consumer, and vice versa, in a standardized format across four pressures. Our work is quite novel in this space.”



"The Indian and FBDGs being directly from government recommendations, the Mediterranean being widely discussed for its health benefits, and the EAT-Lancet diet being developed by subject matter experts,” DeCesaro said. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-of-sustainable-diets">Power of sustainable diets</h2>



Their findings revealed that except for the FBDGs, shifts to all other diets resulted in reductions in global cumulative pressure. 



The Indian diet performed best due to its recommendation of zero red meat consumption, while food-based dietary guidelines typically suggest more red meat than countries currently consume.



However, these global pressure reductions would primarily rely on dietary shifts in higher-income countries. 



“Higher-income countries’ average current diets have higher consumption quantities of most food categories than the recommended quantities in our diet scenarios,” noted DeCesaro.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-diets-and-lower-income-countries">Sustainable diets and lower-income countries</h2>



A shift towards more sustainable, plant-forward <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-less-could-extend-your-lifespan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diets</a> would increase environmental pressures related to food production in lower-income countries. But, DeCesaro explained that this is mainly due to the diet scenarios meeting more of their daily needs.



The researchers advocate for support from wealthier countries via access to imports of efficiently produced foods, economic development, and sharing knowledge of efficient and environmentally friendly food production practices.



At the end of the day, our decisions about what we eat are vital for reducing our environmental footprint. Nevertheless, others might pay the price for those decisions, concluded Halpern.



As global citizens, we thus share the responsibility of making informed food choices that nourish both ourselves and the world we live in.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/ad8509" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Research Letters</a>.



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Sustainable diets can reduce environmental pressure

Our food choices hold immense power. Not just over our...

Our planet Earth has a mesmerizing history that spans across 4.6 billion years. For a majority of this immense timeframe, single-celled life reigned supreme. 



But, about 500 million years ago, everything changed immensely. A dramatic occurrence took place known as the Cambrian “explosion."



During this period, an enormous diversity of life forms made an appearance and found a place for themselves in the fossil record. 



Imprinted in these preserved fossils, we can find traces of diverse animal groups that eventually evolved into animal species we see around us today, including us humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-cambrian-explosion">Understanding the Cambrian Explosion</h2>



The Cambrian Explosion was an incredibly important period in Earth's history about 541 million years ago when life on Earth suddenly got a major upgrade. 



Before the Cambrian, most organisms were simple and microscopic, but then things really took off. 



Suddenly, the oceans were teeming with a dazzling variety of creatures, including the first animals with hard shells and complex body structures. 



It’s like nature hit the fast-forward button, and you see the first fish, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/500-million-year-old-trilobites-fossils-preserved-in-volcanic-ash/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trilobites</a>, and even some of the earliest ancestors of modern-day creatures making their debut.



Scientists are still trying to figure out exactly what triggered this burst of life, but they think it was a combination of factors like changes in the environment, the availability of oxygen, and maybe even genetic innovations that allowed organisms to develop new body plans. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grand-canyon-reveals-earth-s-past">Grand Canyon reveals Earth's past</h2>



Now, an intriguing paper published by a team of researchers from The University of New Mexico (<a href="https://www.unm.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNM</a>) has added fresh insights into this fascinating event in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountain-building-triggered-a-mass-extinction-event/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's history</a>. 



“The Tonto Group of Grand Canyon holds a treasure trove of sedimentary layers and fossils chronicling the Cambrian Explosion some 500 million years ago, when the first animals with hard shells rapidly proliferated and sea levels rose to envelop continents with emerging marine life,” said Carol Dehler, professor at <a href="https://www.usu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Utah State University</a>.



Dehler served as the lead author for this paper, with UNM's adjunct professor and paleontologist, Fred Sundberg, serving as the co-lead author.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-model-of-the-cambrian-explosion">New model of the Cambrian explosion</h2>



This research doesn't just bring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cambrian-explosion-fossil-sponges/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary advances</a> to the table; it also has implications for geoscience education. 



The study builds on Eddy McKee's classic model for marine transgression (the spread of seas across continents), which was developed 50 years ago based on these same rocks. 



McKee's model, taught to geology students worldwide, suggests a gradual deepening and slow shifts in sedimentary environments.



“Our new model for deposition of the Tonto Group is much more nuanced, showing a mixture of marine and non-marine settings, breaks or unconformities when no sediment was being deposited, and a much faster tempo of evolution," noted Professor Karlstrom.



"Even more than before, the Tonto Group of Grand Canyon remains one of the most important Cambrian-type sections in the world because of its complete exposure.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dating-methods-used-for-the-study">Dating methods used for the study</h2>



The application of advanced techniques has provided new insights into the rate at which rock sedimentation occurred and has offered hints into how marine species like trilobites and other early animals diversified swiftly.



“Our new tandem U-Pb dating methods are refining precise ages for each layer in the succession and for the transitions between trilobite biozones,” said Schmitz. 



“We are finding that different trilobite species radiated, then went extinct at a very fast, sub-million year, tempo.”



The dating methods used for the study involve extracting hundreds of sand-sized zircon crystals from a ground-up sedimentary rock sample. 



The U-Pb ratios of these grains were first obtained using a preliminary method for swift dating, and then the youngest grains were precisely dated using a more elaborate laboratory technique.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-details-about-the-cambrian-explosion">New details about the Cambrian explosion</h2>



"Sedimentary rocks are hard to date," said Crossey. "But the deposition of the sediment and fossils entombed within it, must be younger than the age of the youngest grain so with many dates we can bracket sedimentary ages"



The team's new model, when compared to McKee's model, provides key pathways that can enable students, researchers, and even anyone interested in geology to understand the Cambrian explosion on a deeper level.



“From the Tonto Group’s 500-meter-thick strata, we’re learning about sea-level rise and the effects of catastrophic tropical storms -- probably more powerful than today’s devastating hurricanes," Dehler continued.



"This occurred in a world without land plants and during a period of very hot temperatures when the Earth was ice-free. Sea levels were so high that sediments like the Tonto Group were deposited atop most continents in environments that allowed rapid expansion of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-animal-day-2024-building-a-legacy-of-compassion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal</a> diversity on Earth," she concluded.



With advances like these, we can better understand and appreciate the complexity and beauty of the Cambrian explosion and Earth's history, making us more connected to the past, and more conscious about how our actions today might shape the future.



-----



The team also included Karl Karlstrom and Laurie Crossey, distinguished professors at UNM, James Hagadorn from the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, Mark Schmitz from Boise State University, and Steve Rowland from the <a href="https://www.unlv.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Nevada Las Vegas</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.geosociety.org/GSA/Publications/GSA_Today/GSA/GSAToday/science/G604A/abstract.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GSA Today</a>.



Image Credit: UNM Newsroom



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Grand Canyon fossils reveal secrets that will force rewrite of evolution textbooks

Our planet Earth has a mesmerizing history that spans across...

Tarantulas are among the captivating wildlife that makes western Cuba more than just a vibrant and culture-rich destination. Recently, this intriguing ecosystem has revealed a charismatic new addition: a unique type of tarantula.



The remarkable creature is more than just another arachnid species - it is a symbol of the magic of nature and its ability to surprise us continuously.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovery-of-the-tarantula-in-cuba">Discovery of the tarantula in Cuba</h2>



The discovery of the new tarantula species, known as Trichopelma grande, was made by David Ortiz from <a href="https://studyatmasaryk.cz/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Masaryk University</a> in Czechia and Elier Fonseca from the Cuban Zoological Society in Cuba.



In their study, published recently in the Journal of Natural History, the researchers detailed the distinctive traits that set Trichopelma grande apart from its arachnid kin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-details-of-tarantula-dna">Details of tarantula DNA</h2>



This new species has already carved out a special place for itself in the Trichopelma genus because it is the largest and hairiest of its kind.



But there’s more to it than meets the eye. To confirm the tarantula's place within this genus, the researchers carried out a phylogenomic analysis using data on Ultraconserved Elements (UCE) in the DNA, as well morphological assessments.



They successfully extracted, sequenced, and evaluated high-quality <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-analysis-can-predict-which-animals-are-at-risk-of-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA</a> data from the tarantula, which included data from 1,348 target UCE loci.



The genetic information was then compared with data from 27 other theraphosid genera.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tarantulas-in-the-greater-antilles">Tarantulas in the Greater Antilles</h2>



The new species is not as large as some tarantulas can be, but is the largest known species in its genus. It also has several special features that differentiate it from other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-new-tarantula-species-discovered-in-ecuador/">species</a> in the same genus. 



For one, the abundance of long "hairs" sticking out from the middle and lower portions of its legs make it look as though it is walking on feather dusters. It also does not dwell in the trees but prefers the ground, where it constructs burrows with a trap-door entrance for quick retreat.



There is a rich diversity of tarantula spiders in the Greater Antilles, with 11 endemic species of Trichopelma spiders found on Cuba alone. Other Trichopelma species also use burrows with trap doors, making this typical behavior in this group of arachnids. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-appearance-of-the-tarantula">Unique appearance of the tarantula </h2>



Apart from being unusually hairy, this tarantula's abdomen sports a unique pattern of spots and six darker and lighter transversal stripes. These stripes are divided in the middle by a single, longitudinal pale stripe.



Strangely, the dorsal side of its cephalothorax is smooth and hairless, despite the fact that the rest of its body is covered in thick, chestnut-brown "hair."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-potential-conservation-challenge">The potential conservation challenge</h2>



The new species was found only within a limited range in the Viñales National Park, a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-the-amazon-became-a-biodiversity-hotspot/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity hotspot</a> in western Cuba.



All four captured specimens were discovered within a 20-kilometer radius of each other, suggesting a potentially restricted distribution.



The apparent scarcity, along with the limited habitat range of this unique species, raises certain conservation concerns that scientists will need to address in future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-tarantulas-in-ecosystems">The role of tarantulas in ecosystems</h2>



Tarantulas, including newly discovered species like Trichopelma grande, play a significant role in maintaining ecological balance in ecosystems. As <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tarantulas-have-beneficial-partnerships-with-other-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predators</a>, they help control insect populations, which prevents overpopulation that could harm local flora.



The presence of tarantulas is also important in terms of the food web, as they become prey for larger animals, including birds and small mammals.



This intricate relationship highlights the importance of preserving such species and their habitats to maintain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-ecosystems-are-needed-to-prevent-future-pandemics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthy ecosystems</a>.



However, tarantulas face threats that extend beyond habitat loss. Human activities, such as the spread of invasive species, can disrupt their environment, making it difficult for these creatures to thrive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-efforts-are-needed">Conservation efforts are needed</h2>



For Trichopelma grande, whose known range is limited to the Viñales National Park, conservation efforts are crucial to ensure its survival and prevent potential endangerment.



Protecting the Park’s ecosystem is not just about conserving a single species; it’s about safeguarding the broader ecological network that sustains all of the species residing there.



In addition to their ecological importance, tarantulas hold cultural significance in many regions. From symbolizing resilience to being featured in local folklore, these spiders have intrigued humans for centuries. 



The discovery of Trichopelma grande adds to this narrative, reinforcing the wonder and complexity of nature. It serves as a reminder that there are still many mysteries left to uncover in connection with the wildlife that shares our world.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00222933.2024.2401921" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Natural History</a>.



Image Credit: Journal of Natural History (2024)



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Giant tarantula discovered in Cuba has 'feather-duster' legs

Tarantulas are among the captivating wildlife that makes western Cuba...

We all know that water is vital for life and our daily routines. From the first glass we pour in the morning to the bedtime hot drink we imbibe, it's a ubiquitous part of our lives. Unfortunately, researchers have now identified a potentially undesirable chemical lurking in our water precious tap water.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-byproduct-in-water">Chemical byproduct in water</h2>



A recent study has revealed a startling fact: an unidentified chemical byproduct could be present in the tap water in approximately one-third of U.S. homes.



Now, before you put down your glass of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forever-chemicals-found-in-tap-and-bottled-water-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> with a shudder, let's emphasize that scientists are not yet sure whether this byproduct is harmful or not.



However, they are worried that it could be, due to the characteristics of the molecules.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chloronitramide-anion">Chloronitramide anion</h2>



This enigmatic substance, dubbed 'chloronitramide anion,' is the offspring of chloramine, a chemical that, ironically, is used to treat water to make it safe for human consumption. Chloramine is a concoction of chlorine and ammonia that kills viruses and bacteria in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/over-4-4-billion-people-lack-access-to-safe-drinking-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> treatment systems, and the newly-identified substance is produce when chloramine breaks down.



"It has similarity to other toxic molecules," said David Wahman, one of the study's authors and a research environmental engineer at the Environmental Protection Agency. 



"We looked for it in 40 samples in 10 U.S. chlorinated drinking water systems located in seven states. We did find it in all the samples."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-battle-against-microbes">Battle against microbes</h2>



Chloramine has been trusted for about a hundred years to keep our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/too-much-fluoride-in-tap-water-supply-might-lower-kids-iq-by-few-points/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> free of pathogens. It's often used to maintain the water that stays in our pipes for several days after leaving a water treatment plant.



In fact, chloramine has become the preferred water warrior because its alternative, chlorine, also produces byproducts – some of which are linked to the incidence of bladder cancer and are patrolled by the EPA.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-lies-beneath">What lies beneath</h2>



David Reckhow, a research professor in civil and environmental engineering at the <a href="https://www.umass.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Massachusetts, Amherst</a>, who wasn't part of the study, thinks the discovery is significant. His major concern is understanding whether this newfound entity is hazardous.



“It’s a pretty small molecule and it can probably for that reason enter into biological systems and into cells. And it is still a reactive molecule. Those are the kinds of things you worry about,” he explained.



“We can go about the hard work of trying to figure out what its toxicological relevance is in our water systems,” said Julian Fairey, the lead author and an associate professor at the University of Arkansas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-its-link-with-health">Its link with health</h2>



While this ongoing investigation creates waves, some past studies have alluded to a connection between drinking disinfected water and higher rates of certain cancers.



However, whether these occurrences have anything to do with this newly-identified compound remains untested.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-regulation-and-responses-to-water-byproducts">Regulation and responses to water byproducts </h2>



Drawing conclusions about the toxicity of this compound and establishing regulations based on those findings is more likely to be a marathon than a sprint.



"It’s a lot [of time] - probably a decade of research once a funding source is found," said Alan Roberson, executive director of the Association of State Drinking Water Administrators.



In the meantime, water utilities should pay heed to ongoing research and try to limit people’s exposure. “You do what you can to minimize. You make the best judgment you can on the toxicity and you run with incomplete information,” Reckhow recommends wisely .



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-questions-arise">Questions arise</h2>



This study has also cast doubt on whether, from a health perspective, chloramine is indeed a safer disinfection process than chlorine.



“This study really calls into question whether or not this disinfection process is safer from a health perspective,” said David Andrews, a senior scientist at the Environmental Working Group, an advocacy organization that pushes for more scrutiny of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/collecting-water-from-the-air-to-tackle-a-global-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemicals</a>.&nbsp;



He noted that there are several disinfection byproducts found in water systems but that this one deserves scrutiny.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-trade-off-a-necessary-evil">The trade-off: A necessary evil?</h2>



Any treatment of drinking water involves some level of health risk. 



While disinfection processes have largely eradicated waterborne diseases like cholera and typhoid, research suggests that some byproducts may pose cancer risks and increase the chances of miscarriage or low birth-weight babies.



Yet, these processes are crucial to neutralize real bacterial and viral threats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-check-on-water-quality-and-byproducts">Check on water quality and byproducts</h2>



Thankfully, many U.S. water utilities provide information on their websites about whether the supplied water is treated with chlorine or chloramine. 



There's also some evidence that activated carbon filters, like those used in home water purification devices or fridge filters, can rid water of disinfectant byproducts. But, more research is needed.



So, the next time you turn on your tap for a glass of water, remember the invisible actors at work. They are unseen, but critical; unnoticed, yet ever-present. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adk6749" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Mysterious chemical found in U.S. tap water has been identified

We all know that water is vital for life and...