Table of contents for Issue 346 - June 2024 in MiniMag

Welcome to the June edition of MiniMag, where we embark on a journey to discover the marvels of our planet and beyond. This month, we dive into the depths of the ocean to explore its mysteries, championing the cause of saving our precious coral reefs and restoring ecosystems harmed by human activities. Join us as we delve into the importance of healthy soils and the urgent need to combat deforestation, for these vital ecosystems are the lifeblood of our planet, nurturing life in all its forms. Let us also uncover the timeless tales hidden within rocks, as they hold the secrets of our history, whispering stories of ancient civilisations and the ever-changing Earth. Amidst our exploration, let us not forget the watchful eye cast towards the skies, where scientists diligently…

Coral reefs are underwater cities bustling with life! Coral reefs are made up of tiny animals called coral polyps, which build intricate calcium carbonate structures over thousands of years. These vibrant underwater communities host a staggering array of marine life, from colourful fish to majestic sea turtles. But their importance goes beyond their beauty. Coral reefs serve as crucial habitats and nurseries for countless marine species. They provide shelter, food and breeding grounds for fish and other organisms, supporting the intricate web of life in our oceans. Without healthy coral reefs, many species would struggle to survive, leading to ripple effects throughout the entire marine ecosystem. Protecting the community Coral reefs also play a vital role in protecting coastlines from erosion and storm damage. The complex structures of reefs act…

Rocks contain a record of the events that formed the Earth and thus of the history of the Earth. Rocks also contain records (in the form of fossils) of the creatures that lived on the Earth over the course of its history – from the most primitive one-celled organisms to the powerful dinosaurs. Rocks have amazing stories to tell to those who understand them. The science of Geology is the key to unlocking this treasure trove of information. Why is geology important? Geology is the study of the formation of the Earth and other planets and of all the rocks and minerals on them. Geologists also study the processes, such as erosion, that form the rocks and soil. We are not only interested in understanding the history of our planet,…

Biomimicry is about copying nature’s ideas and turning it into man-made products. This is a form of biotechnology, as it is using biology for economically important and useful products. Best of all, nature’s ideas and materials are sustainable and can help humanity to become more environmentally friendly. Fluffy fibre When plants string together long chains of glucose molecules, it results in cellulose, a chemical used to build all kinds of structures in plants. Wood (and the paper that is made from it) is mostly cellulose and so is the fibre in your food. Though cotton looks very different from wood, it is also made from cellulose. Cotton fibres grow out of the seed coats of cotton seeds and a single cotton boll contains hundreds of thousands of cotton fibres. Each…

“Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.”John F. Kennedy These are examples of a powerful literary device called antithesis. But what exactly is antithesis, and why do writers and speakers use it? Let’s dive in and explore the magic of contrast in language!“To be or not to be, that is the question.”William Shakespeare (Hamlet) “Money is the root of all evil: poverty is the fruit of all goodness.”Unknown Neil Armstrong’s famous words, “That’s one small step for [a] man, one giant leap for mankind,” were actually pre-scripted. Armstrong had planned this phrase before the mission, but due to the excitement of the moment, he botched it slightly. He meant to say, “That’s one small step for a man,” implying a…

The ocean is like a giant playground full of excitement and adventure. Whether you’re looking for heart-pounding thrills or a serene escape, the ocean offers a variety of sports that promise endless fun. Let’s dive in and discover some of the coolest water activities you can try on your next beach day! From riding the waves to exploring underwater wonders, the ocean offers countless ways to have fun and stay active. Remember to stay safe and protect yourself from the sun, so you can enjoy all the exciting adventures the ocean has to offer. Now, grab your gear and dive into a sea of fun – the ocean is calling! Snorkelling: Discover underwater wonders If you, re curious about what lies beneath the surface, snorkelling is for you. Put on…

Deserts, with their vast stretches of sand and scorching temperatures, may seem like barren wastelands devoid of life. But did you know that these arid areas are undergoing a remarkable transformation thanks to the efforts of scientists, conservationists and local communities? Desertification, the process by which fertile land becomes desert, is being challenged through innovative techniques and projects worldwide. Let’s delve into some inspiring examples of how deserts are being greened, bringing hope to once-barren landscapes. Great Green Wall of Africa In the Sahel region of Africa, stretching from Senegal in the west to Djibouti in the east, the Great Green Wall initiative is taking root. This ambitious project aims to combat desertification and improve the lives of millions of people living in the region. By planting a massive wall of…

With the 2024 Olympics just around the corner, let’s take a look back at how this worldwide sports celebration began and transformed into what it is today! A symbol of unity The most recognisable of the Olympic symbols is the Olympic rings. The rings were designed by Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympic Games. The rings represent the colours of the flags of all nations at that time and the unity that the Olympic Games bring to people around the globe. The ancient beginnings Imagine travelling back in time to ancient Greece, over 2 700 years ago. That, s where the story of the Olympics starts, in the beautiful plains of Olympia. These were not just games, but also a religious festival held every four years to…

Experiments How strong is your hair? You will need: ❏ A long hair (if you don, t have long hair, ask a friend for one) ❏ A pencil ❏ Two boxes ❏ A plastic bag ❏ Fishhook ❏ Several coins 1. Tape one end of the hair firmly to a pencil with sticky tape.2. Balance the pencil across two boxes with hair hanging down.3. Fasten a small plastic bag to the other end of the hair with a fishhook.4. Slowly add one coin at a time to the plastic bag. 4. How many coins can the hair hold without breaking? You can also compare different people, s hair strength. Eggshell in vinegar You will need: ❏ A stove ❏ A pot ❏ Water ❏ Vinegar ❏ Two glasses 1. Boil two…

Our planet’s oceans play a crucial role in regulating the Earth’s climate. They absorb a large amount of the heat from the sun and help distribute it around the globe. They also absorb carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. But when we put too much carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, the oceans can’t keep up, and they become warmer and more acidic, which harms marine life. So, what can we do to take action for our oceans and climate? Here are some key points to focus on: Making the best use of existing climate solutions This means using the tools and technologies we already have to reduce our carbon footprint and protect our oceans. Things like renewable energy sources (like solar and wind power), energy-efficient technologies…

In a world where environmental challenges are becoming more apparent, the importance of land restoration cannot be overstated. Land restoration involves rejuvenating ecosystems that have been damaged by human activity, allowing them to thrive once again. Let us explore various techniques and methods used in land restoration, each playing a crucial role in preserving our planet for future generations. Agroforestry Agroforestry is a sustainable land management practice that integrates trees and shrubs into agricultural landscapes. By combining agriculture and forestry techniques, agroforestry enhances biodiversity, improves soil health, conserves water and provides additional sources of income for farmers. Inter-cropping Inter-cropping is the practice of growing two or more crops together in the same field. This technique maximises land use efficiency, improves soil fertility and reduces the risk of pests and diseases.…

There is astonishing variety in nature. From tiny bacteria to the largest whale and everything in between, every unique species holds secrets for humanity to unlock. Despite the large variety of creatures, many of the structures they build use similar materials that are perfectly engineered for what they need to do. Humans often copy nature’s technology for their own inventions. Sticky silk Silkworms are famous for the silk cocoons they spin, but many other arthropods also make silk – like the silk in spider webs. Scientists have been interested in this silk for a long time because of its useful properties. For example, spiders place drops of glue on parts of their webs to make them sticky. This glue needs water in the air to remain sticky – if it…

Have you ever looked up at the night sky and wondered about those distant points of light? Among them are asteroids, the mysterious travellers of our solar system. Asteroids are like cosmic crumbs, leftover from the formation of planets. But don’t let their small size fool you; these space rocks pack a punch! Let us embark on a journey through the asteroid belt and uncover why International Asteroid Day is more than just a date on the calendar. What are asteroids? Asteroids are rocky objects that orbit the Sun, primarily found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. They come in all shapes and sizes, from tiny pebbles to giants hundreds of kilometres across. Some are irregularly shaped like potatoes, while others are more rounded. Most asteroids are made…

What action will you take today? For each of the 17 Goals there are many positive actions you can take to make a real change. Support campaigns collecting items for victims of emergencies. Donate your clothes, food supplies, etc. to support those in need. Any donation, big or small, can make a difference! This list was made by: THE UNITED NATIONS an International Organisation that counts virtually every country in the world as a member! The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of targets relating to future international development. They are created by the United Nations and promoted as the Global Goals for Sustainable Development. They replaced the Millennium Development Goals that expired at the end of 2015. The SGDs run from 2015 to 2030. There are 17 goals…