Vincent Summers
My secular expertise includes 23 years of experience at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, with a share in NASA's extended Voyager 2 effort. I formerly wrote for Demand Studios, Bukisa, Suite 101, Examiner, Bright Hub, and wiseGEEK - but now write science pieces for Quirky Science.com and the Yahoo! Contributor Network.
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Education/Experience
BS in Chemistry - Drexel University Philadelphia, PA. Graduate courses in Organic and Quantum Chemistries were taken through the University of Virginia - Citizen Scholar Program.Interests
Chemistry, Spring Flowers, Gardening, Cooking, Genealogy, Home Brewing, African Violets, Pets, Public Speaking, Space, Physics, and Mathematics.Motto
Proffer a Sharp Mind, a Gentle Heart, and a Willing Spirit.Affiliations
Quirky Science
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The Rules of Science Change with ScaleScientific laws and principles seem to vary from the world of the atom, to our everyday world, to the world of the astronomical.
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Uranium Mining in Virginia?Who ever heard of mining uranium in Virginia? Yet, that eventuality is a very real possibility.
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Basic Chemistry: Unsaturation – Alkenes and AlkynesChemists and "foodies" alike are interested in the topic of saturation.
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Factors that Complicate Atomic Mass DeterminationModern chemistry depends a good deal upon accurately knowing the atomic mass of each of the elements. What factors complicated the search?
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What is Keto-Enol Tautomerism?Sometimes a compound is subject to internal changes. Note a well-documented and important example.
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Quirky Chemistry: What is Muonium?From cosmic ray bombardments and particle accelerator experiments came "muonium," an other-worldly form of atom similar in some respects to hydrogen.
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What Gives Pepper Its Peppery Taste?Pepper from peppercorns (not to be confused with peppers such as chili peppers) affords a delightful peppery taste to corn on the cob and other delights of the palate. What gives it that taste?
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What Makes Glue Stick?Oddly, what makes glue sticky is not 100-percent understood. Still, a few basic mechanisms are doubtless of primary importance.
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Plaster, Wood, and Sand in My Grated Cheese?Processed foods contain added chemicals. Even such simple processing as the grating of cheese.
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What is a Zwitterion?The zwitterion is an important biochemical entity seen especially among amino acids and proteins. It is the subject of much ongoing research.
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Good Ozone and Bad Ozone: What is the Difference?Whether one believes in Global Warming or not, ozone, it is conceded, exists in two forms: harmful ozone and beneficial ozone. What is the difference? This article points to and elaborates upon that question. -
Is There a Connection Between Magnesium and Sulfuric Acid?The light aviation metal magnesium and the powerful dehydrating sulfuric acid do share a connection connection at times.
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Chemistry Methods: What is Gravimetric Analysis?Gravity and Gravimetric bear the same root. Hence, analysis involving mass is involved. Learn when and how gravimetric analysis is used.
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Angular Velocity Vs. Rectilinear Velocity?Objects travel rectilinearly - in lines - and they can spin - angularly. How are these activities similar. How do they differ?
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Why Do They Put Propylene Glycol in My Drinks?Propylene glycol is accepted for drug use, food use for humans, and food use for pets, in the United States. Why do they use it? Is it safe? Is it universally accepted? -
Abnormal Prolactin Level - Does it Automatically Indicate Prolactinoma?Excess prolactin can lead to serious problems for men. Does the presence of excess prolactin automatically indicate the presence of a Prolactinoma? Read on to see why it does not!
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Reducing Sodium: Is Potassium a Suitable Salt Substitute?Is potassium a viable substitute for sodium in dietary replacement? Can it be eaten without concerns in place of salt?
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Charge Spread Stabilizes Ions: How?There are stabilizing factors in nature. Spreading out charge is one of them.
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Degrees of Freedom of Diatomic Molecules and Energy EquipartitionDiatomic molecules have three degrees of translational freedom. There are also rotational and vibrational varieties. How do these relate to energy?
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Xanthan Gum Gluten Substitute Developed by Female ChemistGluten must be avoided by sufferers of celiac disease. Xanthan gum, developed by a female chemist, makes an excellent substitute. What is xanthan gum?
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Confusing Economics of the Twenty-First CenturyTongue-in-cheek commentary on the state of affairs.
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My Life's Employment as a ChemistMy employment as a chemist was interesting, but what would I do if I had it all over again to do?
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Electron Capture - What is It?Electron capture refers to two different processes, one best described as a physics process, the other as chemical and instrumentational.
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Genes and Genetics Quiz: Questions and AnswersWhen it comes to genetics, do you think you know your stuff? Put it to the test with this quiz!
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The Economy: Animals Suffer, TooThese are such tough financial times for people! You're right, they are. But what are they like for our pets?
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Lose Weight While You SleepThe body seldom accomplishes a task through only one mechanism. In fact, the body loses weight, day and night. How at night?
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Weather Factors that Produce Delicious PeachesPeaches! Among Summer flavors, few can compete with peaches. What factors affect peach aroma and flavor?
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The Price of Spice: Will it Reach that of Gold?Spice adds flavor to good food, but it is one of Life's most expensive expenditures. This despite the fact that most spices are not all that rare. When will it end?
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String Genealogy of Silent Screen Star, Clara BowDoes your family tree contain one or more famous persons? Of course it does. This article proves the point.
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Sickle Cell Disease - a Product of Gene MutationSickle Cell anemia is a genetic disorder affecting hundreds of thousands of individuals. It may be diagnosed through blood testing.
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Beef Jerky Costs More Than a Filet Mignon and Champagne DinnerDo you like store-bought beef jerky? Then you may find it interesting how you are being ripped off!
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Preparation of Benzoic Acid by the Oxidation of TolueneRead many food labels and you will see either benzoic acid or benzoates mentioned. What is benzoic acid? How is it made?
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Cherry Tree Spindle Gall - Eriophyid InfestationThe cherry tree in these photos suffers from a spindle gall infestation caused by a near-microscopic creature called the eriophyid mite.
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Protons, Hydrogen Ions and Hydronium IonsHydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe. When it loses an electron, it is ionized. It is then variably called a proton, a hydrogen ion, and even an hydronium ion. Why? What is the significance?
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Hydrogen Bonding and Its EffectsWeaker chemical bonding is still very significant. Without it, we'd never be able to exist!
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What Kinds of Chemicals Are in Paint?Paint must cover a surface, adhere to it, protect it and make it look good. What are the chemicals used to accomplish this?
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Quirky Genealogy: A Different Sort of String TheoryDon't climb your family tree. String it out and find your connection to history!
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The Science of Fermented UrineGood things can sometimes be found in the most unexpected places. Want an example? How about fermented, putrefied human urine?
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The Structure of Propane Affects Its PropertiesPropane, although having the same elemental composition as methane, lacks some of its symmetry. This affects its properties. Why? How?
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Molecular Structure of Sodium Metasilicate AnhydrousSodium metasilicate exists in a variety of hydrated forms, as well as an anhydrous (without water) form. Instead of existing as a single particle of six atoms, it exists as polymeric chains. Why?
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Calculating the Energy of a Particle of Electromagnetic Radiation Using WavelengthLight exhibits properties that make it seem to have a dual-nature. Sometimes it resembles a particle. Sometimes it resembles a wave. In this article, the energy of a particle will be calculated using a wave property - wavelength.
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What Are Zeolites and What Are They Used For?Zeolites occur both in nature and by the hand of the scientist. What is a zeolite and what is it useful for? Quite a number of things in the home and in industry as well.
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Photographs of the Sombrero Galaxy Employing Visible, Infrared, and X-radiation"What we see" isn't always "what we get." The Sombrero galaxy so aptly demonstrates this fact. By combining the results of the Hubble, Spitzer, and Chandra space telescopes space explorations, we gain a better understanding of the universe around us.
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What is Reindeer or Caribou "Moss?"Reindeer or caribou moss is a plant found along roadways at the edge of woods. It grows from alpine regions south to Florida. What is it? What can it be used for?
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Henbit, Bittercress, Ground Ivy and Other Small Weedy Lawn FlowersWeeds attacking your lawn are not always of the larger, flowering variety. Come to know these smaller culprits by name.
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The Wild Harvest: Bugs in My Morel Mushrooms?Why not enhance your larder, not only with garden fresh produce, but with forage from the wild? Morels offer a taste treat, but you may wish to be aware of "stowaways."
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How to Use Specific Gravity to Determine Alcohol Content in HomebrewWhen science is applied to the homebrewing process, results can be nothing less than fantastic. Here's how to determine alcohol content by using an ordinary hydrometer and a simple mathematical equation.
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Black Knot Fungus Damage of Cherry and Plum TreesNearly limited to North America, Black Knot Fungus Disease threatens serious damage to important fruit trees of the prunus species.
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Chemical Bond Comparison of Straight Gasoline and GasoholConsumers are concerned: Does gasohol give as many miles-to-the-gallon as straight gasoline? This article uses a chemical model that may provide insight into that question.
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Nature's Technology - What Chemicals Make Stink Bugs Stink?There is a technology of nature. Among the armaments of the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug are two chemicals. Oddly enough, they are in the same family of compounds as some of the components of perfume.
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White Horehound: Marrubiin and Medical DiscoveryHorehound is no longer for grandmothers and herbalists only. Scientific discoveries point to a bright future for the weedy mint.
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Homebrew Science: The Biology and Chemistry of HopsThe successful homebrewer will know his ingredients and that includes the biology and the chemistry of hops. Read on to find out about the science of homebrewing.
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How to Grow Your Own Hops for Great BeerWhy not add a dimension to your home brewing experience by growing your own hops?
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What is Sevin (Carbaryl) Pesticide?Sevin, a registered trademark for the pesticide carbaryl, has a tragic history. Yet, it is a relatively safe pesticide. It is very effective but may not be the insecticide of first choice. Here's why...
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Why Electroplating is Often Performed Using Constant Current Power SourcesElectroplating can be performed at home using a variety of power sources. Commercially, however, power sources used are generally of the constant current variety. Here's why...
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Bedbugs at Homeless SheltersEven the government vows to do away with these bugs!
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Bedbugs from Thrift Stores and Second Hand ShopsBedbugs - something to fear in the Deep South - or where you live?
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What's Are Calluses? How Do They Differ from Other Skin?Although it is most important to know how to treat calluses, it is also interesting and helpful to know what they are. Just what causes and what is a callus?
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Decorative Chrome Plating of Steel and AluminumWhat goes into the manufacture of decorative chrome plated parts such as automobile bumpers or motorcycle engines?
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Why an Atom Bomb is so DestructiveAn atom bomb is relatively small, yet can produce inconceivable havoc. How is that possible? Why is an atom bomb so destructive?
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Obtaining Native Wildflowers for Your Garden or Woodsy AreaHow can one safely obtain native plants such as wildflowers to grow for his garden or woodsy area?
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Growing Vegetables and Fruits in the Red Clay Soil of the SouthSouthern red clay - southern mud - is the matrix in which many vegetables and fruits are grown. What special requirements do these soils have to produce excellent agricultural products? The secret is in understanding "Ultisols."
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Huitlacoche Corn Smut: How to Grow it and How to Prevent ItWhether you spell it huitlacoche or cuitlacoche, corn smut happens. In some areas it happens on purpose, while in other areas, they try to stop it. How do you feel? Do you enjoy Mexican cuisine, or do you like good, old, down-home cooking?
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Early Spring Wildflowers: Cutleaf ToothwortCutleaf toothwort is an early spring ephemeral wildflower, commonly found in the central and eastern United States. Why not "warm up" the rich, woodsy area surrounding your house?
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Explosives: Is TNT the Same Thing as Dynamite?Knowing the names of explosives isn't the same thing as knowing about the explosives. What are TNT and Dynamite? Read on to find out.
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Silent Film Masters: Man of a Thousand Faces - Lon Chaney SrSilent Film Masters include actors and masters of makeup. Among these, there were none more skilled than Lon Chaney, Sr., "the Man of a Thousand Faces."
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Crown Ethers: Nomenclature, Chemistry, ApplicationCrown ethers are designer molecules - inviting some of the brightest minds to develop new lines to serve new purposes. Be sure to notice the illustration associated with this introductory article.
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Do Atoms Stop Moving at Absolute Zero?Classical physics might suggest that at absolute zero, particles cease all motion - but what about quantum mechanics - the science of the world of the atom?
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Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil: What is It?Animal fats have been reduced in many prepared foods. They have been replaced by vegetable oils. But these oils usually have been at least partially hydrogenated. What does that chemical term mean? Could there be implications for your health?
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Basic Organic Chemistry: What is a Lactam?Lactam formation can serve as an important synthetic method of producing nitrogenous heterocycles.
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Basic Organic Chemistry: EstersEsters are a product of the laboratory. Formed generally from organic compounds via chemical reaction, esters are an important commodity to the commercial world and to the average household. We'll look at what they are, and how may they are formed.
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Cling Peaches and Freestone Peaches - Is One Better Than the Other?Is a peach a peach? Most people would say, no. So what are the differences between cling and freestones? Which should you use and when?
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From Alchemy to Physics: Converting Lead into GoldGold, the symbol of greed and wealth, is in limited supply. Would it be possible to convert ordinary lead into the magnificent metal?
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An Honest Job as a Repo Man: How Low Do Some Go?When does a job cross the boundary from being decent and respectable to a similar-sounding word, despicable?
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One Senior's Amtrak Trip from Virginia to Jersey and BackAre you a Senior? Ever ridden Amtrak? If not, wonder what it is like? Ride with me, now, from Charlottesville, VA, through Washington, DC, to Philadelphia, PA.
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Why Crops Require Abundant Phosphorous and How They Get ItIt is very important -essential- that crops receive adequate phosphorous. Why is phosphorous so important, and how is it provided?
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Why Crops Require Fixed NitrogenMost gardeners and others realize plants need nitrogen. What they may not know is why. Why do crops require fixed nitrogen?
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A Youthful "Sweet Sixteen" Crohn's Victim Undergoes Invasive SurgeryCrohn's Disease is tragic to the patient and all who know and love the sufferer. A genetic illness, it is also tragic to those as yet unborn.
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Edible Urushiol Containing Plants in Farms, Landscapes, and GardensSome plants commonly grown for foods and medications contain the same toxic chemical - urushiol - as poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. Why and how is that acceptable?
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The Rockhound: Devil's Dice - What Are They?Devil's dice make an interesting addition to the rock-hound's collection. What are they? What chemistry is involved, and how hard are they to locate?
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In Methuselah's ShoesEverybody "normal" wants to live as long as possible, right?
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How is the Gasoline "Pump Octane Number" Calculated?Sometimes we take things for granted. Such may be the case with "octane number." What is pump octane number (PON), and what does it mean?
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The Great Outdoors: The Hunter -vs- NatureDo you know any funny hunting and outdoors stories? I do.
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Include Mosses in Your Rock GardenMosses, or more accurately, lichens, add a special touch to rock gardens. Literal mosses add an element of beauty as well, to shadier rock gardens.
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Millet: For Food and Drink, Decorative Use and as Green ManureMillet is one of earth's most important grains. Despite that fact, many persons won't know what it is. Why not become acquainted with millet and its many uses?
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Online Writing Weaknesses: Real and ImaginedThe actual weaknesses of online writing are often not the ones hard-copy writers are citing.
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My Howling Scary Experience Walking the DogI'd heard about things like this on the news. Now it was happening to me.
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Organic Chemistry: Friedel-Crafts Alkylation and Acylation ReactionsTwo of the most powerful tools of the organic chemist are the Friedel-Crafts alkylation reaction and the Friedel-Crafts acylation reaction. Two simple syntheses highlighting these are presented here.
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Thomas Edison: Rubber from GoldenrodEverything on this earth serves a purpose. Could the flowering "weed" called goldenrod serve as a source of rubber? Edison decided to find out.
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Grow an Aroma Garden for Entertaining VisitorsDelicious aromas are inviting to everyone. Why not make them a fascinating feature of entertaining friends?
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American Cars -vs- Japanese CarsAmerican cars still lag behind Japanese cars in this man's opinion.
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Buying Bottled Water - Pros and ConsBottled water, is it a good thing or not? Should you buy it or shouldn't you?
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Super Viruses and Farm-ageddonThe story is fiction. But does this story strike a familiar chord?
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Sixth Grade at Elizabeth Haddon School: There Ought to Be a Law!My worst nightmare! Sixth Grade with Mr. Holman.
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Russian Heirloom Tomato "Zarnitsa" SlideshowThis heirloom tomato is truly "red," originating from approximately 50 miles south of Moscow. Disease-resistant, it apparently endures colder weather better than some varieties.
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The Autumn Olive: Grow it for Land Reclamation or FoodThe Autumn Olive was once thought valuable only for land reclamation. Get ready to use it for health and nutrition! It may well prove a valuable crop.
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The Morphology of the Influenza Virus Protein CoatInfluenza epidemics such as the Spanish Flu of 1918 can spring up in a moment, due to the morphology of the influenza virus protein coat. What is that? This article probes that topic.
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Obsession with Growing a World-Class Giant PumpkinThe world's fastest growing vegetable is the Giant Pumpkin. What is it about them that drives men (and women) to obsession?
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Britain's Campion: A 1930's Class-Act DetectiveOne British class-act detective is a "sleeper," Campion. 1930's fashion, manners, and lifestyle was never so pleasant or stimulating.
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Gunpowder - the Chemistry Behind the BangGunpowder may be well-known, but do you know what makes it go bang? The simple chemical change produces physical changes. Notice what they are.
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The Guadeloupe or Creeping Cucumber in Nelson County, VirginiaA miniature cucumber is found growing alongside a larger cousin - the Guadeloupe or Creeping Cucumber snuggles up to a larger cousin, a bush variety of the eating cucumber, right here in Nelson County, Virginia.
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What Kind of Plant or Weed is This?Help me identify this plant, please...
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Cheese, Cheese Food or Cheese Product: What's the Difference?Do you think cheese and process cheese food or process cheese spread are all the same thing? Then you are wrong. Learn the difference here!
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What Are Amalgams & How Do They Differ from Solutions?Mercury dissolves all but two elemental metals. They often are, however, much more than solutions. What are their characteristics? Read on to find out.
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Adding Hydrogen Bromide (HBr) to an AlkeneVladimir Markovnikov, a Russian chemist, established a rule for the addition of Bronsted acids to double bonds in alkenes. There are also conditions that dictate his rule be broken, resulting in Anti-Markovnikov addition.
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Is the Eastern Black Nightshade (West Indian Nightshade) Edible?The deadly nightshade family possesses some of the most deadly plants known, as well as some of the most edible and delicious. How does the Eastern Black Nightshade, aka West Indian Nightshade, fit in?
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Treating Senior Citizens - the Elderly - with Due RespectSenior Citizens - the elderly - deserve to be treated with due honor and respect. Is that really happening in Today's world?
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Spanish Needles (Bidens Bipinnata) - Invasive or Inviting?There are several plants called Spanish Needles. The variety with Latin name Bidens bipinnata, the subject of this article, is both an irritating weed, and a valuable natural resource. How do you choose to view it?
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At 106, the Oldest-Known Male Holocaust Survivor - Leopold Engleitner - is Still Alive!The 106-Year Old Holocaust World War II survivor, Leopold Engleitner, continues to thrive as living proof that one can remain faithful to God, no matter what the circumstances.
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Malt Whisky Comes to Nelson County, VirginiaSingle-malt, scotch-style whisky will soon be manufactured in Nelson County, Virginia, by the Virginia Distillery Company (VDC) sometimes called the Eades Distillery.
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Does the Asian "Sericea Lespedeza" Look Promising for Farmers?Sericea lespedeza is considered an alien invasive weed. Yet, with just a few simple modifications, it promises to become a nutritious heavy forage for livestock, even in areas with poor soil.
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The Tomato Hornworm and the Braconid WaspNature has its checks and balances, and for the tomato gardener, this is good news. Oddly enough, the friend of the gardener in this instance is a wasp!
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The Dwarf Sumac Tree - Wherein Lies Its Usefulness?The dwarf sumac must join the mosquito, the yellow jacket, and the termite in its questionable usefulness.
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Rabbit Tobacco or Sweet EverlastingConsidered by some a curative for asthma, Cherokee Folk-lore attributes to this wildflower, found from Quebec and Ontario to Texas and Florida, the property of enabling one to contact the Creator.
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White Squash, Cucumbers, Beefsteak Tomatoes, and Wax Beans: Vince's Microgarden SlideshowNot only can you grow what you want in your own garden, you can actually wait until it is ripe to pick it!
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Learn to Calculate Molecular WeightChildren, young adults, and even older persons can quickly learn to calculate molecular weights. Consider how.
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Vegetable Gardening for the Handicapped, the Elderly, the PoorIt is natural to want to work the earth and reap a bountiful harvest. Vegetable gardening should be -is- accessible to every segment of human society.
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How Can I Calculate the Arccos of an Angle?Trigonometric functions such as sine, cosine, and tangent are tough enough for some individuals. What then are the "arc" functions? Consider the example of arccos.
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LED Tail Lights: Advantages and DisadvantagesThe Light Emitting Diode (LED) was bound to find its way into the automotive market. It offers real advantages. There is a downside, though, certain problems. Will these problems prove important safety issues?
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Ferrets - Rats, Weasels, Skunks, or Friends? Meet "The Boys"My experience caring for Ferrets - Meet Peppy, Finnegan, and Skippy - The Boys.
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World's Tallest Man - Sultan Kosen - Treated at UVAThe World's Tallest Man, Turkish Sultan Kosen, was operated on at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia for acromegaly. As a sufferer of acromegaly myself, I take interest in his case.
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The Great Grocery Giveaway? Really? I Don't Think So, TimThe Great Grocery Giveaway is a contest that could instill hope in those sadly affected by the current economy. Has it lived up to its name?
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Garden Soil and Nitrogen Fertilizer: Why Choice is ImportantFor NPK fertilizers, it is very important to choose the correct source of nitrogen. To fail to do so could not only decrease yield, but damage the crop.
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The Doppler Shift and Its Practical ApplicationsThe Doppler Shift or Doppler Effect is a simple principle of physics that provides big payoffs in science, engineering and human health.
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Guide to Growing Zarnitsa Heirloom Russian TomatoThe end of the cold war made Russian horticultural varieties available to the western world. Among these varieties is the heirloom tomato, Zarnitsa. What is it like and how does it taste?
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Unemployed? Want to Provide? Try Micro-FarmingUnemployed and can't make ends meet? Maybe growing a vegetable garden - becoming a micro-farmer - will help. Maybe you can learn something from my experience.
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Muon Studies Reveal Shrinking Proton SizePhysicists at the Max Planck Institute recently discovered the proton is not as big as they once thought. This discrepancy poses serious questions. Find out how they came to this shocking conclusion.
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Virginia Ecology - Yellow Wingstem and the Silvery Checkerspot ButterflyThe Virginia native wildflower called Yellow Wingstem, serves as food for a lovely butterfly, the Silvery Checkerspot. Some view Yellow Wingstem as a weed. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
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Calculating Chemical Reaction Quantities - Don't Forget Water of Crystallization!Quantitative chemical reactions require careful calculation to avoid errors. One beginner's error is to forget "water of crystallization." Here is an example of an incorrect calculation and a correct one.
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Tomato Blossom End Rot and Sources of Calcium DeficiencyWhat causes Blossom End Rot in tomatoes, eggplants, and related plants? Not fungus. Not mold. It has to do with chemistry and ions. Solutions to the problem are not that difficult, however.
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Phytophthora cinnamomi - How is it Affecting the Cork Industry?The cork industry is worried greatly by a root-rot fungus infesting Cork Oak trees. What is this disease all about, what is the history of the fungus, and what can be done about it?
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Pearl Fay White and Betty Hutton - the "Perils of Pauline"Pearl White became famous in The Perils of Pauline. The silent screen actress led a short, energetic life that turned to a tragic death. Nostalgia revitalized her character in the form of a Betty Hutton movie.
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How Can I Measure the "pH" of Deionized Water?Measurement of acidity and basicity is typically performed by any ordinary pH meter. Measuring the pH of pure water, however, is not all that simple. Here's why that is, and how you can still do it.
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Suave Naturals Tropical Coconut Shampoo - a ReviewShampoo isn't something the author ordinarily gets excited about. Suave naturals tropical coconut shampoo, however, is not ordinary to the author's way of thinking.
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Ragweed Not Goldenrod the Real Hay Fever CulpritSufferers may sometimes misidentify goldenrod as a source of hay fever producing pollen. If goldenrod is not the problem, what is?
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Chicory - Roadside Weed or Coffee Additive?Chicory - have you seen it growing - have you had it in your morning coffee? There it is along that highway, there!
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Acids and Superacids - Improved Theory, Increased StrengthAcid theory evolved in stages. The theory led, not only to improved understanding of what constitutes an acid, but to ever-increasing strength of available acids, as well.
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Studying Planaria Regeneration to Develop Pharmaceutical ProductsAmputations and other body damage would cause no lasting difficulty if humans could regenerate. What can a worm teach us about the power of regeneration?
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Calling All U.S. Carpers - Calling All U.S. CarpersAre you a Carper, or are you related to a Carper? Do you know Carpers? Invite them to read this article, and consider what it says.
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White Bush Pan Patty Squash Plant Photos with Commentary - Part TwoAfter white bush pan patty squash seedlings have developed, they enter the blooming phase.
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White Bush Pan Patty Squash Plant Photos with Commentary - Part OneWhite squash are the most delicate and delicious of the summer squashes. Enjoy this slide show, with commentary.
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Metallocene Compounds - Structure and PropertiesMetallocenes were discovered in the second half of the Twentieth Century and reinvigorated the study of Organometallic Chemistry.
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The Science of Golf Ball DimplesGolf ball trajectories and distances traveled are inescapably associated with the science of dimple design. Here's how.
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Is the American Chestnut Tree Making a Comeback?The majestic and life-sustaining American Chestnut tree is blighted by an Asian bark fungus. Will we ever be able to grow it again? There is hope!
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Chemistry, Use and Risks of Glyphosate HerbicideThe herbicide glyphosate is doubtless the most popular herbicide currently in use, and for good reason. Herein is discussed its chemistry, its use, and the few risks involved in using it.
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Grow Bouncing Bet Along Roadside Edges of Your PropertyThe lovely pink-flowering phlox-like clusters along your roadside may be Bouncing Bet, the Common Soapwort, once purportedly used by Native Americans to cleanse themselves.
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Simple Algebra for Elementary School KidsLet's really start simple so our kids will be ready for algebra when they get older.
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Double Blackberry Cobbler with Ice CreamHomegrown blackberries plus scratch batter make one phenomenal cobbler. Serve it with quality ice cream, and you have an Ooh-La-La dessert!
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How Urethane Differs from PolyurethanePolyurethane paints and varnishes are not made of urethane, but of polyurethane. What's the difference?
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Purple MarriagePurple is like a marriage, joining different personalities into one.
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Hurricane Plus Oil Spill Equals Bug Spray?What possibly even greater tragedy could occur if a powerful hurricane crosses the path of the world's greatest oil spill?
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"This is Your Life" - Time for an American Remake?Ralph Edwards' "This is Your Life" was more than simply a television show. It was a revelation of human values in a media-driven world. Documentary biographies today, no matter how detailed and complete, do not compare. Is it time for a remake?
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Enjoy the Wineberry or Wine Raspberry This SummerAmong all the great berries of summer, just what is the wineberry, and how is it best used?
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Dust Devil Visuals - Earth and MarsDust devils are not limited to the United States, but there are spectacular ones in the western states. Some are modest, others are very powerful and awe-inspiring. Some even occur on Mars.
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The Russians Had American Tumbleweed FirstTumbleweeds are iconic for the Wild West. They are a nuisance to most Westerners. They are also Russian!
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Famous Detectives' Character GimmicksEvery good fictional detective has a quirky personality and is inundated by author's gimmicks.
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A Lesson in Life - Mom and the BostoniansWhy are moms so insistent? Why can't they let us do what the other kids do? A lesson to learn in life.
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Avoid Cliches when Writing OnlineWe speak fluently, we write concisely. We speak in cliche phrases, we write one word at a time.
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Poison Ivy and Your FoodWhy would anyone relate your food to poison ivy? Surely no one adds poison ivy to our food, do they?
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It's a Boxelder Tree, Not Poison IvyEver hike in the woods and suddenly see a huge tree of poison ivy? It's not what you may think.
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Growing Beets - First Garden Effort with "Detroit Dark Reds"Growing beets for the vegetable and the greens is fun and easy as well as tasty.
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Unknown Plant Volunteer in Vegetable Garden - Can You Identify It?An unknown volunteer showed up in the beets area of my tiny vegetable garden. Can you identify it for me?
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Google Maps - "Big Brother?"Google Maps is a phenomenon of technological ingenuity coupled with hard work and devotion to a product. It helps millions, perhaps billions of people. Could it be used to harm them as well?
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Al Jolson "The Jazz Singer" - an Historic Milestone and a Typhoon of TearsArt has its Rembrandt. The movies has The Jazz Singer.
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Comical? Fantastic? The Pinwheel African VioletModern African violets look nothing like the original plants. Strangest of all modern African violets is the chimeral or pinwheel variety...
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Landscape Your Home with Flame AzaleaPerhaps the most beautiful azalea is the fiery Flame Azalea. Yet, it is seldom seen by most people. Why not use it to landscape your home?
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Hydrogen Sulfide Wastewater Treatment MethodsNo one enjoys the smell of rotten eggs coming from the neighborhood sewage treatment plant. What can be done to eliminate this serious problem? Read on to find out.
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Make Your Own Nature TrailHiking on nature trails in national parks is fun. Why not make your own nature trail on your property? Here's how.
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Kids Draw the Darndest ThingsArt Linkletter taught us that kids say the darndest things. I maintain they also draw the darndest things. Take Mommy and Daddy for instance...
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The Water Battery - Lord Kelvin's Electrostatic GeneratorElectrostatic generation in the thousands of volts is easily generated using some soup cans and water. Find out why and how this works.
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Bee Balm ImageBee Balm, sometimes called Oswego Tea, is native to North America. Used for antiseptic purposes, it is a natural source of thymol, found in common mouthwash.
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Virginia Assorted WildflowersColumbine, Sundrops, Green-and-gold, Dutchman's Pipe, Jack-in-the-Pulpit, and Cinquefoil are among the subtle beauties you can expect to see in rural Virginia.
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Plant Foxglove: The Original Source of Digitalis Heart MedicineSome plants are simply beautiful. Other plants are historical. Foxglove is beautiful - it is historical - and it is of ongoing medical importance.
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Plant an Elderberry GardenYou drive past elderberry bushes every year. Yet, likely you never considered including some in your garden. Here's why you should.
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Orphaned Canada GooseThis orphaned Canada Goose found us. How do such tiny creatures touch our hearts so? We turned it over to a wildlife refuge, but sadly it did not thrive.
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Mulch Slime Mold FungusMulch is subject to many fungi, but one sickeningly reminds you of dog vomit. This slime mold is harmless. The fungus consumes bacteria in the mulch.
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The Robber Fly - Deadly Yet HarmlessIt catches bees in the air and eats them -- yet to humans, the robber fly is as gentle as a puppy dog...
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Why Dental Fillings Don't Cause MRI Test TroubleAn MRI technician asks about metal implants, prostheses, jewelry and even shrapnel injuries. So why don't they ask about dental fillings?
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Practical Uses for CorncobsAfter the corn is gone, of what benefit is the cob? Once considered waste, corncobs are now considered a valuable resource.
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Transplanting Essentials for Lady's Slipper OrchidsEveryone who ever sees one marvels at the Lady's Slipper wildflower. Some try to transplant one to their home. Most will die. What steps greatly increase odds of survival?
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What Makes Motor Oil and Other Lubricants Slippery?It's easy to know one material is more slippery than another. Tests can be performed. However, what makes lubricants slippery?
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Why Does My Tongue Freeze to a Silver Spoon?Something as simple as eating ice cream with a silver spoon invokes many of the principles of chemistry and physics.
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The Importance of Extended FamilyDon't be quick to sever your family ties. Time will sever some of them for you and you may come to live in regret...
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When Life Isn't Fair to a ChildSometimes life isn't fair, and it hits kids the hardest...
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Photos of Parti-color Hybrid IrisesIrises come in a variety of colors and sizes. Enjoy these beauties of Spring while they last!
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Photo of the Robinia Pseudoacacia or Purple Robe Pseudo Locust TreePurple Robe Pseudo Locust Tree is a Work of Art.
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Wild Blackberry Cane in Full BloomThe blackberry canes are in full bloom. Will there be a bountiful berry harvest? Mm. Blackberry Preserves!
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Photograph of a Beautiful Large Yellow Hybrid IrisHow beautiful can an Iris be? See for yourself.
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A Family Happy Though DysfunctionalOlder people have many memories to savor. What happens if those memories are unclear?
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Iris - Blue Flags - Nelson County, Virginia SlideshowBlue flags are Iris grown in Virginia. Although they may be hybrids developed by man, they are not new hybrids. They are strong, healthy, and decidedly beautiful!
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Assorted Virginia Spring Flowers - Iris to OxalisSpring has sprung and its starting to pick up speed here in good old Nelson County, Virginia.
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Six Colorful Zone 5 Flowering Ground CoversZone 5 areas such as Rochester, New York, have cold winters. What can be done in spring to provide outdoor warmth and beauty? Plant these ground covers.
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Are Space Wormholes Scientific Nonsense?Is the science fiction concept of wormholes scientific nonsense? Consider what quantum-tunneling and the theory of relativity seem to indicate.
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Sweet Shrub SlideshowSweet Shrub is one of the more subtle beauties to be found among the flowering shrubs. Its unusual color bloom and exotic seed pod makes it worthwhile planting.
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Nine Invasive Plants to Exclude from Your GardenSome plants are beautiful and very desirable. Some plants are ugly and undesirable. Some plants possess beauty but should be avoided at all costs.
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Butane Discovered Thanks to MotoristA 1910 motorist was discontented and wanted the government to look into his problem. This led to the discovery of butane and was part of the history of the LP gas industry.
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The Fruit Fly and Why It is Used in Genetic StudiesNot a doubt of it, the lowly fruit fly is a pest. Yet to the scientist, it is near to being an idol. For over a century, this little creature has been unlocking scientific secrets.
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Flowering Crab or Crabapple Tree Photo ImagesPhotos of a beautiful young Flowering Crabapple tree in Virginia.
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Metalloids - What They Are, Their Properties & ChemstriesMost public chemistry education considers metals and non-metals, but there is a third class known as metalloids.
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Eastern Redbud in VirginiaThe beautiful purple Eastern Redbud is a glory to behold. There are not many trees that bloom without a single leaf!
