Factional Distillation of Crude Oil

8. 2. 1 (iv) Fractional Distillation of Crude Oil By Blake Turner – Year 11 Fractional Distillation of Crude Oil Introduction Crude oil is the term for â€Å"unprocessed† oil, the stuff that comes out of the ground. It is also known as petroleum. Crude oil is a fossil fuel, meaning that it was made naturally from decaying plants and animals living in ancient seas millions of years ago — most places you can find crude oil were once sea beds. Crude oils vary in colour, from clear to tar-black, and in viscosity, from water to almost solid. On average, crude oils are made of the following elements or compounds: * Carbon – 84% Hydrogen – 14% * Sulphur – 1 to 3% (hydrogen sulfide, sulfides, disulfides, elemental sulfur) * Nitrogen – less than 1% (basic compounds with amine groups) * Oxygen – less than 1% (found in organic compounds such as carbon dioxide, phenols, ketones, carboxylic acids) * Metals – less than 1% (nickel, iron , vanadium, copper, arsenic) * Salts – less than 1% (sodium chloride, magnesium chloride, calcium chloride) The Process Fractional Distillation The oldest and most common way to separate things into various components (called fractions), is to do it using the differences in boiling temperature.This process is called fractional distillation. You basically heat crude oil up, let it vaporize and then condense the vapour The various components of crude oil have different sizes, weights and boiling temperatures; so, the first step is to separate these components. Because they have different boiling temperatures, they can be separated easily by a process called fractional distillation. The steps of fractional distillation are as follows: 1. You heat the mixture of two or more substances (liquids) with different boiling points to a high temperature.Heating is usually done with high pressure steam to temperatures of about 1112 degrees Fahrenheit / 600 degrees Celsius. 2. The mixture boils, forming vapor (gases); most substances go into the vapor phase. 3. The vapor enters the bottom of a long column (fractional distillation column) that is filled with trays or plates. The trays have many holes or bubble caps (like a loosened cap on a soda bottle) in them to allow the vapor to pass through. They increase the contact time between the vapor and the liquids in the column and help to collect liquids that form at various heights in the column.There is a temperature difference across the column (hot at the bottom, cool at the top). 4. The vapor rises in the column. 5. As the vapor rises through the trays in the column, it cools. 6. When a substance in the vapour reaches a height where the temperature of the column is equal to that substance's boiling point, it will condense to form a liquid. (The substance with the lowest boiling point will condense at the highest point in the column; substances with higher boiling points will condense lower in the column. ). 7.The tr ays collect the various liquid fractions. 8. The collected liquid fractions may pass to condensers, which cool them further, and then go to storage tanks, or they may go to other areas for further chemical processing. Components of the Mixture Crude Oil Components All the †¦. Product| Boiling point ( degrees Celsius )| Petroleum gas| 40| Naphtha or ligroin| 60-100| Gasoline| 40 – 205| Kerosene| 175-325| Gas oil| 250-350| Lubricating oil| 300-370| Heavy gas| 370-600| Residues| 600| Products of Separation Assessment Question: Why is the mixture separated?What are the components used for? Why is Mixture Separated? 42393793 161b What are the Components Used For? Below is a list of separated components and what they are used for: Petroleum gas Used for heating, cooking and making plastics. Commonly known by the names methane, ethane, propane, butane. Naphtha or Ligroin Intermediate that will be further processed to make gasoline. Gasoline Motor fuel. †¢liquid Kerosene Fu el for jet engines and tractors; starting material for making other products. †¢liquid Gas Oil or Diesel DistillateUsed for diesel fuel and heating oil; starting material for making other products. †¢liquid Lubricating Oil Used for motor oil, grease, other lubricants. †¢liquid Heavy Gas or Fuel oil Used for industrial fuel; starting material for making other products. †¢liquid Residuals Coke, asphalt, tar, waxes; starting material for making other products †¢solid Wastes Bibliography http://science. howstuffworks. com/environmental/energy/oil-refining4. htm http://www. aip. com. au/industry/fact_refine. htm www. theoildrum. com/node/6089 en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Separation_process

I Miss your Beauty and Vibes Essay

â€Å"A Mixed Tex-Cal marriage,† an article written by the author Jose Burciaga, Texan, tells us about his new life after getting married to a Californian woman, Cecilia. At first, the author tells that he thought that he and his wife have common ideas and beliefs because they were both Chicanos. Then, he shows that he was surprised when he noticed the different customs and ideas he and his wife have because they were from different grounds. They lived for a couple of years in Washington, DC and Alexandra, Virginia, then, they settled in California near the beaches and the soft weather. The writer argues that Texas Chicanos are more attached with their traditions than Californian Chicanos who show more Americanization. After some years, he grew to like California food and drink, but still missed the weather and the smell of Texas. From Burciaga s’ article, I can understand what he went through to get used to Californian traditions. Like him, I also miss my native land. Despite the beauty and extra opportunities in Chicago, my heart still aches for Oran. Oran is a wonderful city located in the northwest of Algeria, known for its beautiful beaches and food. Chicago to me is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with its beautiful tall buildings, green spices. However, Burciaga was satisfied with the weather of California, like he says,† I am totally spoiled and laid-back in Northern Califias†, In contrast it was hard for me in getting used to the cold weather of Chicago. In fact, the difference between Oran and Chicago is evident in weather, beauty, movement and food. First, the weather of Oran is often beautiful and mild. In autumn, when we are on our way to school, the wind blows softly and rapidly as if its spirit is pushing me to be on time. When going back home at 12 pm for lunch the weather is warm, the sun sparkles, the birds sing, we’d think spring has already come. However, most of the autumn nights were horrible because the wind blew strongly; it sounds like bad spirits are trying to unlock the windows. By the winter the rain fell mostly at night, the buildings seem freshly washed and the roads are already dried in the mornings but the weather is cold. Stepping to March, the gardens and forests become green and full of flowers. Once May is over, the summer is already there. The weather is warm but not stifling and the sea at the beaches is sparkling and full of life with many swimmers. This is in contrast to Chicago where the weather is often unacceptable. In the winter, when I am outside, I am afraid that I will lose feeling in my legs when the freezing sensation emerges from the soft snow. Autumn in Chicago is a lovely, pale, orange view with the golden leaves covering the streets. It is disappointing when most of springy days are cloudy and rainy. Fortunately, we can see the mild warm weather during summer in Chicago. Second, Oran is a small, pretty city full of life. From a distance you can see the long green balcony along the city center next to the short pretty buildings engraved from top to bottom. Going through the city center, cafes are already full and active at 9 am and the roads are busy with the noisy cars. I lived in Bir El Djir, a quiet neighborhood 28 Km far from the city center. Bir El Dgir is a luxury neighborhood full of villas. From the window of our kitchen, I could see our beautiful garden and our neighbors’ gardens too, I could also overhear their conversations and shouting. I felt always happy and full of life in this lively environment. It is quite different in Chicago, a big wonderful city with more stillness. Downtown Chicago is a wide stretch of tall buildings, we notice any clutter or cracks in the roads, every building and road is shiny and neat, the luxurious clothes and furniture are apparent from the stores’ wide show cases. Tourists hang their shopping bags; they seem fascinated by the beauty of Chicago. Third,Oran is a city of Haute Cuisine. Along all the big avenues of Oran, the savory sweet smell of pastry travels from the bakeries. Approaching a bakery, our eyes are stunned with the colorful cookies. In front of the showcase, we can’t choose between the attractive pieces of pastry. I remember one of the soft chocolate pastries I once picked, covered with frothy cream; as much as I describe it can tell how it really tastes. Unlike Chicago, the land of immigration, where restaurants offer many food traditions. For example, I have been once in Us’mania , an Indian restaurant, where I tasted Biryani, a tasty spicy rice with chicken. Also, we go often to Pita Inn, a Lebanese restaurant where we like to order Shawarma, a thin long piece of grilled chicken, salad and tomato twisted in a thin bred. I am glad to discover many foreign traditions; I feel that I have visited many countries. In conclusion, Chicago is very cold in the winter, but I appreciate the magical time of snow falling. When skating in the ice rink, I feel like flying in the air. Downtown Chicago, is a magnificent place that i dream to visit every day; however, I always think about the lively activity of Oran and miss the savory pizza and dishes.

Dante’s Inferno: Contrapasso

Expect No Mercy What goes around comes around. When sinners reach hell they are forced to experience the counter-suffering of contrapasso. For each sin, Dante gives a specific punishment relating to that sin. Some of these sins include violence towards self, violence towards God, sorcery, and hypocrisy. For the despicable lives they lived on earth, they are doomed to suffer relating consequences for all of eternity. â€Å"No green leaves, but rather black in color, no smooth branches, but twisted and entangled, no fruit, but thorns of poison bloomed instead. (XIII, 4) No longer humans, but trees, they stand in a fruitless wood, being eaten by half-woman, half-bird creatures called Harpies. These sinners have committed Violence against themselves. They destroyed their bodies on earth so they have been denied any resemblance to a body in hell. Harpies are perched on them, eating their leaves as they scream in pain. When leaves or branches are ripped from them, they bleed and feel as t hough limbs are being torn from their bodies.Their wounds heal so as to reoccur, making it so the harpies may eat them eternally. This is not a reasonable form of justice, as once thought in Dante’s time. The Christian church has changed its opinions on suicide since the publishing of Dante’s work. Once not even awarded a Christian burial, people who commit suicide are now considered not in the right state of mind. Since they have suffered in life, they should not be forced to suffer for eternity in death. Despite the undeserving sufferers previously noted, many of the people found in hell deserve to be there.The blasphemers have committed the sin of violence against God. They have either cursed God or offended God directly during their lifetimes. These sinners lay on their backs in burning sand staring up at the skies as fiery flakes rain down on them. They committed sins against God, therefore they shall spend eternity staring up at him and accepting his wrath. Viole nce is horrid and the punishments in hell show how it can come back to you in death. But even deeper into hell the sins get worse, as do the punishments. There are things that people are not supposed to see during their lives on earth.The future is one of these things. The first sinners found in the eighth circle of hell attempted to see the future using forbidden means such as black magic. The punishment that these fortune tellers are forced to endure is they walk around forever with their heads twisted facing backwards, only able to look behind them. Their eyes are filled with tears so anything that they could see is completely blurred. â€Å"You see how he has made his back his chest: because he wished to see too far ahead, he sees behind and walks a backward track. (XX, 37) These punishments are perfectly fitting to the sins they have committed. These so-called sorcerers spent their lives in the twisted world of magic, so it is only fitting that they are twisted themselves in h ell. This is the torture that awaits them in hell, and they’ve earned every bit of it. Deeper into hell there are sinners who twisted the truth, this is where the hypocrites are found. They deceived people during their lives by pretending to have beliefs or virtues that appealed to others.Now they slowly trod around wearing cloaks that look beautiful on the outside, but on the inside they are lined with heavy lead, that weighs the sinners down. â€Å"’The orange-gilded cloaks are thick with lead so heavy that it makes us, who are the scales it hangs on, creak as we walk. ’† (XXIII, 100) Since they hid their true selves in life they must walk forever, hiding the weight of their deceit which they must carry for all of eternity. If they stop walking, the lead gets hotter and hotter until they start moving again.Being eaten for all of eternity, staring into the skies as fiery flakes rain down, heads twisted on backwards and hidden weight that must be carried forever are some of the punishments in hell that await sinners. These specific punishments relate or contrast to the sins of those who suffer them. Contrapasso is the passing of just punishment for sins, and punishments that relate to the sins are the most fitting. For the damage they have done on earth, these offenders are fated to suffer the abuse they have earned themselves in hell.

News of the week Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

News of the week - Essay Example One of the facts in the article is the aspect of the government spending much in printing the typefaces that are standard and the issue of the teen’s idea of a cheaper typeface embrace. The author provides sufficient explanation and factual material that support his idea and propel his thought. He believes that Garamond requires lesser ink as compared to Times News Roman, which is factual. He argues that the government loses hundreds of millions on typefacing using Times News Roman. There is an image of a simple piggy Bank provided in the magazine (Frizel, Para. 2). The 14 year old Mirchandani Suvir thought that changing the government documents standard typeface would save millions in ink posts. The teen advises that using of Times News Roman as a standard font style wastes more ink and suggests that the government resorts to Garamond. The teen got the information from observing other teens switch between font styles with an intention of attaining the required length by the teacher (Frizell, Para. 1). In my opinion, the reportage is true, balanced and unbiased. Times New Roman tends to use more space on a space hence more ink is needed to print it out. However, there are no diversified viewpoints provided in the article. The article is an editorial because it is the author’s original idea and it is convincing because of the fact that if one compares Garamond and Times New Roman, it is evident that the latter requires more ink usage. Lastly, my general opinion about the article is that the teen has an idea that should sell across the world and not only in America. This might save countries millions of

Critique Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Critique - Essay Example In this qualitative study, titled - Using a strategy of â€Å"structured conversation† to enhance quality of tutorial time the author Stephanie Robinson has proposed a specific approach referred to as â€Å"structured conversation† as an effective tool for improving the quality of tutorial time with regard to students with ASD. The article was published in the Journal of Further and Higher Education (Vol. 32, No.1 February 2008). It is an international peer-reviewed academic journal involved in publishing articles and book reviews concerning global issues related to the field of learning and education, especially those with learning disabilities (2009 [online]). The author is a lecturer and module leader for the PGCert.LTHE since 2003 and for the Brunel Associate Practitioner Pathway since. She is involved in various projects including providing further education particularly to students with learning difficulties and is focused on working with both the adolescents as well as adults with ASD. She has also been a part of a program dedicated to development and implementation of training for staff teaching children or adults with autism or Aspergers Syndrome (2009 [online]). Her credentials and extensive knowledge in the field of education (and particularly with regard to students with learning disabilities) establishes her as a worthy and suitable authority within the sphere of research concerning special education. In this article the author Stephanie Robinson, attempts to examine the â€Å"The impact of a technique of structured conversation to enhance a student-centered approach to tutorial time for students with autistic spectrum disorder† (2008., Pp.59) and suggests that the development of such an approach can offer enhanced learning support in the current challenge of widening diversity in the learner population. The purpose of the article was aptly

International business class (Discussion Board) Assignment - 5

International business class (Discussion Board) - Assignment Example es-spatial proximity of upstream and downstream industries enhances the sharing of information and this enables a continuous sharing of ideas and innovation, which can create competitive bias in a certain type of industry. Factor conditions- against the traditional thought, he argued that key factor of production are created and not inherited. The key factors are skilled labour, capita and infrastructure. These are the ones that can create a competitive advantage. He referred to those factors as the â€Å"diamond of national advantage†, by implication he asserted that it is the inter-linkage of these factors that would actually precede the attainment of the competitive advantage. Further, he pointed out that government policy and the chance of event had a role to play in the inter-linkage and hence a national competitive advantage factor. Texas cotton farmers have in recent years been facing stiff competition from other overseas farmers, particularly China and India. The provision of subsidy-government policy, a factor that affects the inter-linkage of other factors may have tilted productions in favour of the Asian giants. However, demand conditions in the American market for cotton products, new business strategies being employed and the existence of a system of powerful infrastructural development in the region might tilt the scale in their favor. The four advanced factors that Porter writes about are Demand Conditions, Related and Supporting Industries, Factor Conditions, and Firm Strategy, Structure, and Rivalry. Texas cotton farmers were able to use Porters Diamond model to redefine their business strategy in order to remain competitive. One of the ways they did this was to upgrade on their machines and technologies. This propelled them into the new millennium and provided support for them to remain competitive in the national and global market. This helped them build up the industry into a new more effective and efficient operation. So national brands

Summary Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 19

Summary - Essay Example The rationale of this paper has been to improve the quality of service delivery and develop the investment of human capital in serving this noble task. According to Liu 2006, plans are fundamentally important to improve human resource for tourism by the local individuals to conform to grow and more sophisticated demands in the developing countries. There is increasing concern for academic institutions to go beyond the hospitality orientation and further integrate and equip personnel with quality and practical skills. Despite the fact that tourism has been prioritized in the national development plan, there have been minimal efforts employed to improve human resource for tourism, which is essential in achieving this plan (Dale & Robinson,  2012, p.  82). Institutional framework and concerns have constrained the type and focus of accumulation of human capital in developing countries. International standard compliance and professionalism has limited individual involvement through integrating local cultural concerns. Liu and wall addressed conceptual reflection of the accumulation of human capital in tourism in a policy-industry-locality structure that includes broad issues of tourism policy, employment concerns that influence tourism in the developing countries and the contribution of local people in this industry. They also identified the nature and the probability of acquiring education or rather training facilities and opportunities for developing countries. The primary concern of this article was to identify and determine the contribution of tourism plan and policies as well as tourism institutions and opportunities in delivering internationally demanded human resource for tourism (Sigala,  2012, p.  96). The article identified that local tourism plans and policies have not been adequately addressed human resource issues for tourism.

My Childhood in Budapest Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

My Childhood in Budapest - Essay Example Because my mom and dad were interested in art, they enjoyed going there because of the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Art, both of which were located nearby. It was probably going to these places so many times that sparked my own interest in artistic works. I may not have followed the career path of an artist, but I do enjoy making some sketches whenever I can. Another reason why Heroes’ Square is so special to me is that I first became accustomed to water at the Szà ©chenyi thermal baths. It took a little while to get used to the water, which was warm due to hot springs. The Danube Promenade was another area that I used to frequent quite a lot growing up in Budapest. My parents mostly liked to enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes located alongside the river, but I preferred to enjoy the view of the water. One memory that I have in particular is me trying to outrun boats while I was on the sidewalk. Occasionally my parents would be so kind as to purchase a tram ticket so that we could all see the stunning views of the river winding through the city. Perhaps the most significant memory of my childhood was visiting the Buda Castle because of the history and tradition associated with this building. Although I was young and could not understand the context, I knew that his castle was an important part of Hungarian culture, and as a young Hungarian, it was my duty to learn about its history. The architecture was extremely detailed; however, the statues of mythical creatures freaked me out somewhat due to their ghastly appearance. The castle looked especially fantastic at night, and there was one occasion on my birthday where I remember witnessing the stunning views of the castle at night. Even though I have rarely been back to Budapest since I left, the city still holds a special place in my heart because I feel that I have connections there that are both physical and emotional.  

Jack Vettriano A Contemporary Artist Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Jack Vettriano A Contemporary Artist - Essay Example The paper "Jack Vettriano A Contemporary Artist" talks about the artist, Jack Vettriano. In 1999, Vettriano work was exhibited, for the first time in New-York. He produced twenty paintings and all of them were sold after the first day. Vettriano has produced artistic paintings such as, Voyage of Discovery (1992), Dance me to the end of Love (1993) and The Singing Butlers. 2004 was a great year for Vettriano since his painting, known as the singing butler was sold at Sotheby, Scotland for close to 750,000 dollars and he received the Order of British Empire Award (OBE) for his excellent work in visual arts. Jack Vettriano is also involved in Philanthropic activities. In 2008, he donated a painting, the study of blue-birds for auction in the London Trade fair in-order to raise funds for the Terrance Higgins Trust. In 2004, Vettriano set up a scholarship for St Andrews University to fund a student who was unable to attend University. These are only but a few examples of Vettriano Philant hropic activities. The style of Vettriano painting is often described genre painting and is viewed as sentimental or mysterious as they often depict elegant men and women, with cigarettes and in cocktail parties hinting at erotic activities with intimacies. Today, Jack Vettriano works in his studios in London and Scotland and he has many collectors of his works. The artistic painting ill review is The Singing Butler painting. The Singing Butler is a classic painting and was produced in 1992 and it is suited.

Great Expectations Essay Example for Free

Great Expectations Essay Even though Pip has become snobbish by the end of Book One, Dickens still manages to make the reader like him. Show how and why Pip has become something of a snob and what makes us retain our sympathy for him Tom Beach In Great Expectations Dickens depicts Pip as having an increasingly snobbish character throughout Book One. He shows Pip to have an exaggerated respect for his social position and his growing hatred for the common life that he lives. The reader sees that Pips snobbishness is due to his desire to become a gentleman and his aspiration to be liked by Estella, from whom he adopts some of his snobbish attitudes. Even though it is clear to the reader that Pip has become somewhat of a snob, Dickens encourages the reader to still like Pip. He puts across that Pip is an orphan and that these snobbish feelings we see are just outward feelings. We learn that he was not proud of the snobbish character that he had become from the way he looks back on his life as an adult. These events make the reader feel sympathy for Pip, leading the reader to retain their criticism of him. In Book One of Great Expectations we see Dickens show Pips progressively snobbish character in many ways. After Pips first visit to Satis house and after falling for Estella we see Pips ambition to become a gentleman. We see that Pip blames Joe for being common, and for Joe not bringing him up as Pip thinks he should: I wish Joe had been rather more genteelly brought up, and then I should have been so too. We see Pips snobbish character developing as he blames Joe for being common; he is ashamed of the dear good fellow and disappointed in him for being so ignorant and common. Pip is patronising towards Joe for something Joe has no control over. Pip feels he is able to comment on Joes social status because he does not belong to [his] higher society and would be an embarrassment in front of Estella. This sudden change of attitude in Pip that wants to dismiss his family comes as a great shock to the reader. We see this to be a case of him being a snob. In Book One, one of the main points of Pips character that shows Pip to be something of a snob is his patronising attitude towards Mrs Joe. When Pip is going to see Miss Havisham with Joe and accompanied with Mrs Joe Pip feels embarrassed because they are trying to dress up to much: I am not quite clear whether these articles were carried penitentially or ostentatiously. Pip feels that his sister, Mrs Joe is very much overdressed, trying to look more ladylike that she really is. He is very patronising to her, as seen in the above quotation for simply being overdressed. Pip feels he is above her. Pip shows his growing snobbishness due to the fact that he is so willingly able to dismiss who he is and what he should become: I had believed in the forge as the glowing road to manhood and independence. Within a single year, all this was changed. Now, it was all coarse and common. We see Pip has lost faith in his normal life in the forge, dismissing the fact that that a life in the forge is what he is meant for. Pip will never like Joes trade and is sad when he is made apprentice to him: And what could I possibly do then, but say I was enjoying myself when I wasnt. Pip feels that the apprenticeship will tie him away from his ambition. He feels the forge is so coarse and common that it will prevent him from becoming a gentleman. Pip feels that he is too good for the community that he lives in; he wants to get away from it: It would be very disagreeable to be stared at by all the people here. We see Pip deciding not to go into town in his new suit. He again feels that he is above all the people in the village, that they would make such a business of it such a coarse and common business that [he] couldnt bear [himself]. This fact that he looks down on everybody in the village depicts him as a vain snob; he is not going to be a rustic man anymore. In the closing stages of Book One we see Pip being very snobbish and capricious towards Biddy, a girl who looks after the house and has fallen in love with Pip: Biddy I returned with some resentment, you are so exceedingly quick that its difficult to keep up with you.

The Theory Of Physicalism

The Theory Of Physicalism Abstract: Physicalism is the theory that the universe and its phenomenon can all be explained through physical laws because physicalists believe the universe is completely physical. A philosophical theory opposing physicalism is proposed by the knowledge argument. Proponents of the knowledge argument say that complete knowledge of the physical world does not explain the subjective experiences of perception and interpretation of outside stimuli. If this is the case; then physicalism cannot be true. Physicalism is a philosophical theory that states everything is physical, and that everything can be explained purely by the laws of physics. These physicalists argue that even the processes occurring in the mind can be understood through physics. This belief raises a disagreement with the understanding conscious experiences, which philosophers label as qualia. Qualia refer to the varying levels of quality that our conscious mind experiences from the outside world. Our brains translate electrical stimuli that we receive from the outside world into qualia. An example of this is the human vision. The conscious experience of looking at a blue sky is a result of a set of translation processes that happen inside the human brain. The brain receives electrical stimuli and translates them into a quality. The electrical stimuli will be the light waves and the quality that our minds understand is the color blue. If one single property in the universe can be argued as a non-physical entity, the n theory of physicalism would be false. Quale, which is sometimes referred to the knowledge argument, is a famous theory that goes against the idea of physicalism, and this paper will focus on how the knowledge argument disproves physicalism. A famous example of the knowledge argument was proposed by Frank Jackson (1982). He argues that even if a person has all the physical knowledge about the world it is inevitable that this person will still learn something when s/he is exposed to real experience of the world. In this example, Mary, a brilliant scientist, learned all the physical information and facts, including the distinctive wavelength of each color, in a black and white room. Mary is then released from this room and there she learns the information of color vision that she did not learn in the black and white room (Jackson, 1982, p.291). This new piece of information that Mary learns after her release proves that not everything in this universe is physical. Before Marys release from the room, all the knowledge she had about colors was the physical properties of colors. Mary had no idea what red, blue, yellow, or green actually looked like because all she had experienced was black and white. Another famous example, what is it like to be a bat? proposed by Thomas Nagel (1974), also argues against physicalism. Nagel proposes that even if a human being has all the knowledge about bats perceptual system, including details of how bats sonar system functions, there is still no way a human being can understand what it is like to be a bat. This is because the human sensory system is too distinctive from the bats sensory system. A human being has the ability to explore and research on what it is like to be a bat based completely on scientific information. With the aid of our advance technology, human beings can map out the details how a bat perceives its sonar information easily. However, a human being will not be able to comprehend the qualitative experience that a bat receives because; ultimately a human being is, simply, not a bat. The only way to know what it is like to be a bat is to be a bat. Both examples above try to convey something in common, the fact that a subject X can never understand the quality of experience of another subject. This is because every subject has their own subjective views and physical laws cannot explain this phenomenon. Other than the learning behaviors, physicalists also cannot explain phenomena like memory, mental illness, belief, desires and the feeling of fear. Much of the information human beings have about the world is not in the form of physical information and cannot be explained by physical laws. Every human being is emotional and has a distinctive way of interpreting outside information. The differences between human beings result in different subjective experiences. Human beings not only learn about the world through sensory inputs and stimuli within the environment, but also through subjective opinions or point of views. This corresponds to the knowledge arguments presented above. A physicalist may argue that the way the human brain interprets information can be explained by physical laws. In the example of Mary learning new information after her release, a physicalist may argue that Mary had not acquired any new information about colors. Instead, Mary applied her knowledge of colors after her experience of colors. The knowledge that Mary acquired before her release enables Mary to interpret the new information that she receives from the outside world. The result of Mary being able to interpret a color is based on her previous knowledge about colors. Indeed, science has always been a powerful tool that helps us to understand the world. However, the physicalist argument does not deny the fact that Mary has learned new knowledge after her release from the black and white room. New information was introduced to Mary such as the ability to picture the color in her mind and the ability to distinguish each color without the aid of wavelength frequency devices. Also, normal human beings do not learn their world inside a black and white room. They are exposed to all the colors without the knowledge of every light wave property within each color. Physicalism fails to explain every phenomenon in this world with physical laws. The fact is that knowing all the physical information of how an experience is like does not explain what it is like to experience it. Physical laws cannot explain a subjective experience such as learning behaviors nor can it explain feelings. Since physicalism argues everything in the universe is physical, as long as any property in this universe is a non-physical entity, physicalism cannot be true.

Tardive Dyskinesia and Schizophrenia :: Biology Essays Research Papers

Moving Ahead, Another Movement Disorder For many years schizophrenia was thought to be caused by bad parenting, the so-called "refrigerator mother" was to blame. Today there exists much more information on the disorder and the evidence points to the commonly accepted notion of a chemical imbalance in the brain. Unfortunately, many people still confuse schizophrenia with multiple personality disorder when, in fact, the two are separate. Schizophrenia however, deals more with people who simply don't have a firm grip on reality. In recent years researchers have made significant advances in the field and have come up with many neuroleptic (antipsychotic) medications to treat the disorder. However along with these medical breakthroughs problems have occurred. The most severe side effect is called Tardive Dyskinesia, literally meaning "late movement disorder." (1) Coined in 1964, it is identified by the involvement of numerous "abnormal, involuntary movements of the orofacial area or extremities." . (2) More specifically, it is characterized by rocking, twisting, jerking, toe tapping, lip smacking, blinking, and most commonly an unusual movement of the tongue. . (1) (2)(3). Interestingly enough, these side effects disappear during sleep. (3) Neuroleptic-induced Tardive Dyskinesia occurs in roughly fifteen to twenty percent of people taking neuroleptic drugs for several years, and often exceeds fifty percent when all patients treated with neuroleptic are considered. (1)(4) Tardive Dyskinesia develops in people of all ages and walks of life, but the elderly, especially men, and those who are mute, unable to reason and understand competently, and those who have lost their teeth are more likely to develop the disorder. (5) The cause of Tardive Dyskinesia has not been positively identified, but researchers do know that neuroleptic drugs change the way nerve impulses jump from the pre-synaptic neurons across a synapse to the post-synaptic neurons. (2). Such drugs prevent the neurotransmitter dopamine from reaching the brain, "directly impairing the function of the basal ganglia and the emotion-regulating limbic system and frontal lobes." (6) Drugs such as Haldol, Navane, Thorazine, Mellaril, Stelazine, Clozaril, and Resperisal are believed to cause Tardive Dyskinesia. (6) Resperidal however, seems to cause a less severe from of Tardive Dyskinesia. (6) Currently researchers are exploring the idea that calcium-channel blockers can treat those with neuroleptic-induced Tardive Dyskinesia. Unfortunately, not enough research has been carried out to date. (7). Recent studies have shown, though somewhat ambiguously, that GABA (gamma amino butyric acid, a usually inhibitory neurotransmitter) gives some improvement over the symptoms of Tardive Dyskinesia.

Plato :: essays research papers

Few definite details are known of Plato's life. He was born in Athens c. 427 BC and was the youngest son of Ariston, of an old and wealthy family. It is claimed that his real name was Aristocles, with "Plato" (meaning "the broad") being a nickname given to him because of his wrestler's physique. He served in the last years of the Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta, and after democracy was restored in Athens in 403 BC he hoped to enter politics. However, the realities of political life as well as the execution of his mentor Socrates in 399 BC drove him to abandon this goal. After the death of Socrates, Plato left Athens and traveled in Italy, Sicily and Egypt, where he learned the function of a water clock. In Italy he came in contact with the ideas of Pythagoras, which gave him a new appreciation of mathematics. After serving again in the military, he returned to Athens in 387 BC and founded his Academy, which he presided over until his death in 347 BC and which survived for nearly a thousand years after. His works include discussions of mathematics, ethics, science and philosophy, usually in the form of dialogues. Some of the most famous are the Republic, Phaedo, and Symposium. Famous quotations by Plato: A hero is born among a hundred, a wise man is found among a thousand, but an accomplished one might not be found even among a hundred thousand men. All men are by nature equal, made all of the same earth by one Workman; and however we deceive ourselves, as dear unto God is the poor peasant as the mighty prince. Courage is a kind of salvation. Courage is knowing what not to fear. Cunning... is but the low mimic of wisdom. Democracy... is a charming form of government, full of variety and disorder; and dispensing a sort of equality to equals and unequals alike. Democracy passes into despotism. Good people do not need laws to tell them to act responsibly, while bad people will find a way around the laws. He was a wise man who invented beer. He who is of calm and happy nature will hardly feel the pressure of age, but to him who is of an opposite disposition youth and age are equally a burden. Honesty is for the most part less profitable than dishonesty. Knowledge which is acquired under compulsion obtains no hold on the mind.

Enders Game And Out Of The Silent Planet Essay :: essays research papers fc

In both novels, the characters represent certain kinds of individuals in today's society. They encounterjealousy, as well as many other conflicts within themselves, and human nature. Ultimately, these two novels deliver the inner conflicts of our society. Both, Ender's Game and Out of the Silent Planet are related in terms of the class structures of society, the qualities of the characters, and both characters' struggles with others in the stories. In Ender's Game class structure is strictly military based. The classes are comprised of Citizens, who are just common people, making up the basic population, but are separate from the other classes. "Thirds" are children who were allowed to be born. In this futuristic setting the novel takes place in. Families were only allowed to comprise of two children. However, in Ender Wiggen's case, the government believed that he was the missing link, the great commander who would lead Earth to victory against the dreaded "Buggers". Which Ender does achieve. Thirds, however, were shunned, picked on, and often left out because they were sought to be social out casts. "Launchies" were the newcomers to the Battle School. They were always about six years old, and were often the lackeys of the older children soldiers. Next came the platoon's. platoon's were the main fighting group, which was just the basic soldier, they had little respect from others as well as themselves. Platoon leaders however, were the more desired positions at the Battle School. They were the best of the soldiers, and were veterans. Chosen over a period of time, and flight reviewing were the Army Leaders. Each Army Leader was expected to act a certain way, hardened and wise, as well as strict. Those, who made it to Army Leader often graduated, and went to war against the Buggers. Above these classes were the political castes. They were often corrupt and misled individuals, who often made many important decisions. At others' expense they followed through with their decisions, such as with taking Ender away from his family to train in the military. Orson Scott Card is quoted saying about the government that "the followers are ignorant and stupid and easily fooled, and the leaders are exploitative and cynical, manipulating others' faith for their private benefit."(Card, pg. 2) Which the government in his novel was often portrayed doing to the general public. One instance of this was, when Ender was attacked by Bonzo and a few of the other boys.

Project Management E-Mail Essay

Our team was chosen by Mr. Wendell Deirelein, VP, to analyze three projects and give a recommendation of what company, Piper Industries Corp., should invest in. Our recommendation will include our selected project, a description of the five phases of the project and the key deliverables. Piper Industries Corp needs a completed project that would generate revenue within 12 months for the Project Management Office’s. After much review and evaluation we have selected the Project Code name: Stargazer as the project for investment next week by Piper Industries Corp., The Stargazer project has a massive research, and development on their new widgets, the company has spent $450,000 on this product and an estimated to bring in $575,000. Stargazer will be implemented by using the feasibility study. The feasibility study shows that this project has been evaluated and analysis of the potential of proposed project. Although, this product is not in production yet an extensive investigation and research to support the process of decision- making. The strengths and weaknesses of this proposed venture, opportunities and threats to carry out this project for its success. The feasibility is the cost required and the values attain to be successful. The risk of completion this project on time is high which will generate revenue within the 12 months. Our team feels that Stargazer will be an innovative money maker for Piper Industries Corp. The five phases of project management need to be fulfilled for a successful project. We have reviewed each phase and found that the following in regards to the Stargazer  project. Project initiation was completed by the feasibility studies, this project was named and defined, sponsors and stakeholders are deciding if they want to participate in this project. During the project planning phase, Stargazer has developed a plan for cost, scope, time, quality, communication, resources, and risk. This project is this first of its kind in the industry, therefore Stargazer will be seen as a leader in the marketplace. In the Project Execution phase, the project deliverable is developed and completed. This phase along with the project monitoring and control phase go hand in hand and are performed simultaneously. In this phase status meetings, project development updates, status reports, performance reports and human resource development are completed. The stargazer project product life is forecasted to be seven years for this product. Measuring Stargazer’s project performance and progression, calculating key performance indicators for cost and time to measure the degree of variation if any and in which case corrective measures are done in the project monitoring and control phase. Stargazer project is forecasted to have an ROI of $300,000 for the first year; $550,000 the second year and $750,000 the third year. The final phase of the project management is the project closure, in this phase tasks such as making the delivery, relieving resources, reward and recognitions of all the team members and the termination of contractors that were involve in the project. Piper Industries Corp. will have a closure ceremony for the project we selected and recognize all team members that took part in the planning of Stargaze, Piper Industries Corp. will host a launch party to announce that we will invest in Stargazer’s new widget product to be introduced into the marketplace in June, 2015.

Absolutism in the 17th century Essay

It is said that Louis XIV proclaimed â€Å"I am the state!† Whether or not he really said it is debatable, but the meaning of such a statement is clear. Through the course of the 17th Century various regimes across Europe began to model their states of off the very theme of â€Å"I am the state,†; that is, the monarch personified and had absolute control over his nation. Prior to the 17th Century such absolute control precluded this absolutism. By the time of the 17th Century, however, the conditions were in place for monarchs to take absolute control to shape their nations. The conditions and forces that made absolutism a desirable form of government were the necessity of centralized control, the political instability of the time, and the rise of single sovereignty over a country. Before one goes into what causes states to adopt absolutism, one must understand it. Absolutism is defined as a form of government where â€Å"sovereignty is embodied in the person of the ruler.† The Monarch felt that he had a Divine Right, that is he was responsible to only God, and though he may respect the natural law of where he governed, generally the Monarch attempted to place his realm under absolute control. Measures included elimination of certain freedoms, centralization of power, and the creation of a bureaucracy loyal to the Monarch to help oversee the country. Through these measures, the Monarch was able to control the nobility that always threatened. The Monarch became more and more powerful as he or she began to assert power and institute absolutism. The first reason why absolutism seemed to be a desirable government form was the necessity of centralized power. War was a constant threat to a nation and it’s people. In a country divided into kingdoms and realms ruled by individual nobles and dukes, mobilization for war was a difficult and lengthy task. To better prepare a state for war a country needed a single ruler with the absolute power. Another cause was the need for efficiently raising revenue. A monarch needed absolute control to effectively raise revenue for the cost of maintaining the state. The nation-state became more and more expensive to run during this time due to the increasing frequency of wars, the costs of trade and exploration, and to support the burgeoning bureaucracy. A country divided and ruled by many different people would be  unable to raise sufficient revenue. On the other hand, a country ruled a by a single strong ruler could more easily control and manage finances. In addition, because of the nature of the time, warfare and politics became very personal. Monarchs considered countries an extension of themselves, as exemplified by Louis XIV’s supposed remark â€Å"I am the state!† To achieve this, Monarchs effectively eliminated all competition to their power, that is the nobles and the church. In the era of the Post-Reformation, it was all too easy for Monarchs to seize power from church and nobility, and this further contributed to their power. Another force at play that made absolutism seem desirable was the political instability of the time, both internal and external. France is a paragon example for this. There were many peasant revolts between 1624 and 1648, and â€Å"Nobles and Parlements took advantage of peasant revolts and the Regency to protest their loss of ancient privileges and levels of taxation. Barricades set up in Paris and the mob burst into the King’s bedroom.† King Louis XIII was powerless to stop these insurrections against his rule. Louis XIV soon came to power, and began to assert his royal authority. He put down these peasant revolts, reorganized government, and placed himself at its head. Loyal advisors were installed, and a deal with nobility which surrendered their authority in relation to the Crown in return for authority over their lands. In addition, the size of the military increased, and France began to engage in wars to help solve domestic problems. These wars were generally successful and contributed to an even higher growth in Royal authority. The successes of Louis XIV encouraged other European Monarchs to follow his example. The problems of instability seemed to be only able to fixed with a steady, but iron fist. Absolutism seemed to offer this, as the king would have authority to maintain control without interference from a constitution or a law making body. Finally, the political instability forced Monarchs to take measures that otherwise they would not wanted to take, i.e. levying heavy taxes. When the benefits of these measures came in, Monarchs often looked beyond their ideals to permanently install absolutism. To sum up, the basic political instability of the 17th Century, i.e. wars, peasant revolts, etc. paved the way for Monarchs seizing absolute control to stabilize their nations. The final cause for absolutism was the rise of single sovereignty over a country. In the times of feudalism, more than one person could have sovereignty over an area of a country. Dukes, Counts, and others may claim title to a land in addition to the Monarch’s. However the decline of feudalism brought an end to this. Kings began to assert that there could be only one sovereign to a land, and that was the King. Many new political and legal theories supported the Monarch’s absolute control over land. Jacques-Benigne Bossuet (1627-1704) adapted the medieval concept of kingship in his theory of the Divine Right of Kings, which argued that the king ruled absolutely by will of God, and that to oppose the king in effect constituted rebellion against God. Although people should be excluded from power, God’s purpose in instituting absolute monarchy was to protect and guide society.† Coming from a moral approach, Thomas Hobbes argued that a strong ruler could best control and protect a society. Further justifying absolutism, Monarchs pointed out that it seemed to end Europe’s religious wars and had brought social and political peace. King Louis XIV believed that such absolute rule over a people was the duty of a Monarch, and anything else was failing the people. Essentially, Monarchs based their absolute sovereignty on moral and political justifications. In conclusion, the conditions of the 17th Century made Absolutism seem to be a desirable choice for government, and rightly so. Following the example of France, many countries tried to centralize power. Yet, not all were to be as successful as France. For example, Oliver Cromwell instituted a dictatorship with many absolutist qualities, but this failed as soon as he died. But it is difficult to deny that absolutism was a powerful force in the 17th Century. Absolutism may seem harsh to people of the 21st Century, but for the many of those who experienced it, it was at least beneficial. The political instability of the time, the need to centralize, and the increasing sovereignty of Monarchs all were driving forces in making Absolutism popular and helpful. Despite its problems, absolutism eventually led Europe down the right path.

Handling Efl Learners’ Unexpected Behaviors in Class Essay

For the sake of providing the best services to their students, English teachers arrange their English language teaching and learning activities as perfect as possible. They spend most of the time to make preparation for their teaching. However, along with the process of such preparation, they sometimes do not consider the importance of also preparing the unplanned teaching. Consequently, when things go wrong, they often get difficulties on what they should decide to do. Therefore, this study is crucial to be conducted as its result would be able to give knowledge to English teachers on how to appropriately respond when such phenomenon comes into surface. The purposes of this study were 1) to observe the categories of EFL learners’ unexpected behaviors in the process of learning English in class and 2) to identify the efforts of English language teachers in handling such behaviors. This study utilized the qualitative design in which observation and interview were used as the main instruments in carrying out the research. To be the respondents of this present study, three English teachers from three different state junior high schools in Bogor were purposively chosen. The findings showed that there were four major categories of the EFL learners’ unexpected behaviors, namely learners’ psychological problems, uncooperative attitude, learners’ intelligence level and learners’ native language use. Some solutions in handling such behaviors were also recommended. One of which was to give different materials when dealing with learners with different level of capability. Keywords: unplanned teaching, EFL learners’ classroom behaviors Introduction For English language teachers, planning lessons has become a crucial action that needs to be carried out since it helps guide them during and after the lesson (Spratt, Pulverness & William, 2005). Further, it enables them to make the language teaching process more systematic and well-organized so that they would be on the right track of what they are going to teach and what kind of teaching methods they are about to employ in classroom activities. Therefore, as an effort to provide the best services to their students, English teachers frequently spend most of their times arranging their English language teaching and learning activities as perfect as possible before conducting the act of teaching in the classroom. In fact, only few teachers are aware of the importance of also making attempts to think of and list the solution handling the EFL learners’ ‘unexpected’ behaviors that may probably appear in the classroom when English language teaching is in action. As the result, they will face problems which could seriously block the flow of the teaching process. Thus, the unplanned teaching needs to be paid a particular attention within the consideration when teachers plan the lesson. Brown (2001) explains that the unplanned teaching can occur when the midstream of the lesson changes; going out of the plan that has been set earlier. Further, such phenomenon may happen at anytime. In conclusion, teachers are daily called upon to deal with the ‘unexpected’. 1 Methods This study was principally aimed at identifying the categories of the EFL learners’ unexpected behaviors that might exist during the English language teaching and learning process inside the classroom. Additionally, the investigation was also led upon the identification of the teachers’ effort in handling the behaviors. This present study employed qualitative research design using observation and interview as the instruments in collecting the data. Additionally, three English teachers from three different state junior high schools in Bogor were purposively chosen. The observation was conducted to capture and observe the behavior of the EFL learners when learning English at the classroom. Further, it also functioned to identify how the teachers reacted towards the existing behavior of the learners which were categorized ‘unexpected’. The interview was done to verify what has been witnessed during the observation. The Categories of the Unexpected Behaviors Having completed with the data analysis process, the categories of the EFL learners’ unexpected behavior could then be revealed. It could be seen from the table below. Table 1 EFL Learners’ Unexpected Behaviors No 1 Categories Learners’ Psychological Problem Sample of Phenomenon Learners had less confident and did not want to participate within the language class activities Learners did not pay attention and kept on talking with their friends when teachers were explaining the materials Learners were not well-motivated to learn Learners did not do the tasks ssigned Learners did not want to work in a group Some learners were slow and some were fast Learners asked question which was far ahead the topic being discussed at the mean time Learners kept on using their native language when the teachers wanted them to speak English 2 3 Uncooperative Attitude Learners’ Level Intelligence 4 The Learners’ Native Language Use Solutions in Handling the Behaviors After knowing the categories of the unexpected behaviors of the EFL learners when learning English, solutions on how to appropriately rea ct towards the phenomenon were discovered. Firstly, when dealing with the learners’ psychological problems, teachers, in the beginning of the class, were required to put a strong emphasis on the positive side of having high motivation in the process of learning language. This would build their learning enthusiasm. Second, in handling the learners who were uncooperative such as did not do their homework, teachers could explain the benefit of doing their homework to help them get progress in their language learning process. Third, to teach learners who were at different level of capability, teachers could give special attention to the slow learners while fast learners were given other materials to work with. This was in line with the theory proposed by Harmer (2007) in which he suggested the use of different materials when facing students with different levels. The last, to handle learners who kept using their native language, as found in the interview, teachers were strongly suggested to only respond to the English use. This was supported by Harmer (2007) in which he indicated to ignore what students said in their own language. 2 Conclusion Considering the unexpected things that perhaps may exist in the language learning and teaching process is really important for the language teachers to take into account in the process of planning the lesson. Therefore when things go wrong, they would at least have options on how to handle it, as they are well-prepared. After all, four major categories of the EFL learners’ unexpected behaviors were recognized. They were learners’ psychological problems, uncooperative attitude, learners’ intelligence level and the learners’ native language use. Some solutions in handling such behavior were also recommended. One of which was to give different materials when dealing with learners with different level of capability. These findings are expected to be able to give knowledge to English teachers on how to appropriately respond when such phenomenon comes into surface so that the act of English language teaching and learning will keep on successfully moving forward.

Changes in the environment Essay

The changes in environment that people in space experience also mean changes in significant cues. For example, there is the absence of a fixed horizon that is expected to reduce the efficiency of a person’s perceptions of shape, distance, location and motion (Man-Systems Integration Standards, 2006). The noise aspect is also considered as a human factor particularly in the design of habitat (Special Issue on the International Workshop on Human Factors in Space, 2000). One of the critical requirements in space is the ability of people to communicate with each other. There are noise exposure limits that are established because outside Earth, even low levels, especially when it is intermittent noise, can affect the communication system and human performance especially in complex tasks. Noise also causes fatigue, distraction, irritation and aggressiveness which are already under the scope of psychology but nonetheless, far from what are needed by the people in space (Man-Systems Integration Standards, 2006). The humans must be able to acclimatize themselves to changes in pressure associated with space travel. Because humans are used to atmosphere with 21% oxygen at sea level, equipment and traveling environment are adjusted to maintain an equivalent partial pressure that would sustain life. Pressure values vary from person to person depending on his or her degree of acclimatization to altitude. As a rule, people who are accustomed to higher altitude require less total pressure compared to people who are not accustomed to higher altitude. The partial pressure for normal people who work in space are usually maintained above 152 mm Hg while those who are not accustomed to such environment must maintain a total pressure above 417 mm Hg (Man-Systems Integration Standards, 2006). Psychology The management of human’s psychological state in space is indeed a part of NASA’s standards. â€Å"Human factors research and technology will also ensure that interpersonal interactions are planned maintain a healthy and constructive attitude, thus enhancing productivity and mission success among an international culturally-diverse crew (Man-Systems Integration Standards, 2006). † This implies an assumption that metal and psychological performance and human interactions could have a very significant role in the success of an exploration. Conclusion With the advent of space age, the human factors research contributes significantly especially to the present knowledge in flight, which involves the participation of humans. Success in space missions would be doubtful without consideration of the human factors to which any mission’s success or failure depends. References Brown, D. L. , DeVilbiss, C. A. , Ercoline, W. R. , and Yauch, D.W. (2000). Post-roll Effects on Attitude Perception: The Gillingham Illusion. Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Vol. 71, 489-495. Bungo, M. W. , & Johnson, P. C. (1983). Cardiovascular Eexaminations and Oobservations of Deconditioning Dduring the Space Shuttle Orbital Flight Test Program. Aviation Space and Environmental Medicine, Vol. 54, 1001-1004. Davis J. R. (1999). Medical Issues for a Mission to Mars. Aviation, Space and Environmental Medicine, Vol. 70, 162-168. Ercoline, W. R. , Freeman, J. E. , Gillingham, K. K. , and Lyons, T. J. (1994). Classification Problems of US Air Force Spatial Disorientation Accidents, 1989-91. † Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Vol 65, 147-152. Gander P. H, Myhre G, Graeber R. C, Andersen H. T, and Lauber J. K. (1989). Adjustment of Sleep and the Circadian Temperature Rhythm After Flights Across Nnine Time Zones. † Aviation, Space and Environmental Medicine. Vol. 60 (8), 733 ¬-743. Human factors. (2007). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 12 April 2007, from http://en. wikipedia. org/w/index. php? title=Human_factors&oldid=121814170. Man-Systems Integration Standards (2006). NASA, Vol. 1. Retrieved 9 April 2007 from http://msis. jsc. nasa. gov/sections/section01. htm. Miller (n. d. ). Physical Deconditioning During Prolonged Space Flight. School of Aerospace Medicine, Brooks Air Force Base: Texas. Partners in Space. (2005). European Commission. Retrieved 08 April 2007 from http://ec. europa. eu/research/conferences/2005/esw/conference/partners/article_2004_en. htm. Patton JF, Duggan A. (1987). An evaluation of tests of anaerobic power. Aviation Space Environ Med. Vol. 58, 237-42. President Bush Announces New Vision for Space Exploration Program. (2004). The White House: Office of the Press Secretary. Retrieved 8 April 2007 from http://www. whitehouse. gov/news/releases/2004/01/20040114-3. html. Sacknoff, S. (2005). State of the Space Industry. International Space Business Council, 1-887022-15-5, 56. Sinha. (2002). â€Å"The effect of a 5-day space flight on the immature rat spine. † The Spine Journal, Vol. 2 (4), 239-243. Special Issue on the International Workshop on Human Factors in Space. (2000). Aviation, Space & Environmental Medicine Journal. 71: Section II. Stern, R. M. , Hu, S. , Anderson, R. B. , Leibowitz, H. W. and Koch, K. L. (1990). â€Å"The effects of fixation and restricted visual field on vection-induced motion sickness. † Aviation, Space and Environmental Medicine, Vol. 61 (8), 712-715. The Human Advantage. (2003). NASA. Retrieved 8 April 2007 from http://liftoff. msfc. nasa. gov/news/2003/news-human. asp. Vogel, J. M. , & Whittle, M. W. (1976). Bone mineral changes: The second manned Skylab mission. Aviation Space and Environmental Medicine. Vol. 47, 396-400.

Applied Mathematics in Music Technology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Applied Mathematics in Music Technology - Essay Example In the production and amplification of sound, mathematical formulas with the aid of electrical machinery come in handy. Such electronics are majorly made up of electrical circuits that form a closed pathway followed by electrons whose principal motion is propelled by the gradient difference of current in the positive and negative terminals. There are two types of currents namely direct current and alternating current. Most electrical circuits use direct current, DC, sources because it has a low voltage that is the change of the electrical potential of two oppositions and it can only flow in one direction (Calle 2001). A simple electrical circuit contains several resistors, capacitors and probably a bell or a lamp all connected to a power source say a battery using wires. The pictorial way of presenting a circuit is known as a circuit diagram (Sherlock 2010). Resistance, measured in ohm (â„ ¦) is the property of a conducting material to oppose the flow of electrons within the mater ial when a voltage charge is applied. It is represented by quantity symbol R (Malley 1982, p17). Ohm’s law which is the foundation of electronics and electricity was named after Mr. George Ohm who was a mathematician and a physicist defines the relationship between voltage, power, current and resistance. It states that for a given temperature, a current passing through a given conductor that obeys Ohm's law is directly proportional to the varying ranges of applied voltages with a constant proportionality of the specific conductor’s resistance.  

Nutrition Statistics Project Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Nutrition - Statistics Project Example Cycle 1 students indicated fruit juice as their favorite drink as compared to Cycle 2 students who indicated Fizzy drinks/Carbonated drinks with high sugar content as their favorite drink. More Cycle 1 students buy snacks/drinks from the cafeteria everyday as compared to Cycle 2 students. Over the last 30 years, the UAE has experienced rapid socio-cultural changes that have been brought about by the growing economy of the Arabian Gulf Region due to the discovery of oil (Bin Zaal, Musaiger and D’Souza 2009). UAE citizens have undergone significant lifestyle changes including a massive transition from deficiency diseases and under nutrition towards degenerative diseases that are associated with over-nutrition. There have been significant changes in food choices leading to a â€Å"nutritional transition† (Al-Haddad, Al-Nuaimi, Little and Thabit, 2000). According to the World Health Organization (2000), nutrition plays a crucial role in affecting the weight of a populace because the changes in economic and social environments have highly significant influences on calorific intake. Physical activity and recreational patterns of people in a given place also play a part in the influences that emanate from effects of nutritional intake. Improper nutrition often leads to a variety of health conditions such as obesity, nutrition deficiency diseases such as goiter, kwashiorkor among others. In the context of the UAE, nutritional challenges have heralded obesity which has resulted into several health concerns. Obesity is described as a medical condition in which body fat accumulates to the extent of causing risks to the health of the victim. It is measured as the Body Mass Index (BMI)- calculated by dividing the weight (Kg) of a person to the person’s square of height (M) (Seidell and Flegal, 1997). One is considered overweight when the BMI is between 25 and obese when the BMI is higher than 30 (Seidell and Flegal, 1997). Students in

Electronic communication Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Electronic communication - Essay Example It is with no doubt that the technology has lowered the cost of operation and increased profit margins and business productivity, however, its rapid growth and extensive use has brought along potentially harmful threats to the technology itself and to its users. The paper examines the potential threats related to electronic communication and recommends possible responds to such threats. Introduction Electronic communication, a form of communication involving the transfer of images, signals, data and signs through electromagnetic energy, radio, wire or photo-optical system was discovered in 1998 and its popularity has grown drastically ever since. (Kranakis, 2008) The technology has significantly improved and enhanced the speed, reliability and accuracy in communication including globalization of various business and organizations utilizing the technology. A part from the vast and evident advantages of electronic communication, there are a number of threats associated with overrelianc e on the technology. The use of loop holes in the technology by cyber criminals posses as the most critical threat among others. Malicious actors such as hackers have the habit of utilizing easily accessible tools to compromise and intercept electronic communication thus putting the user and the target infrastructure at high risk. (Kranakis, 2008) The threats associated with electronic communication presents a potential danger to a business organization’s assets including the data of the organization and the users, user authentication information and the physical infrastructures like the network and the computer systems. The assaults and severity associated with such threats as spam, viruses and network attacks have risen to the extent that it threatens the viability of electronic communication. Apart from the leakage of confidential user data, such attacks and threats causes increased and unpredictable hardware and software costs, disruption to email delivery and depletion o f IT resources. The threats associated with electronic communication can be widely categorized in to two including the following. System and Application Threats There is a possibility that data and information sent through electronic communication can be intercepted, copied and modified by unauthorized persons through such attacks as man-in-the-middle attack. This compromises privacy and exposes the user to great danger in case sensitive information such as banking details are exploited. In case of a hospital, the modification of intercepted patient information can endanger the patient’s health or worse off, life. (Melliar-Smith & Chuang, 2012) Password theft and unauthorized computer and network access by hackers or other actors with malicious intentions also posses as a dangerous threat associated with electronic communication. Hackers use special software and Trojans to attack and compromise the security of a target thus gaining unrestricted access to sensitive data and in formation which can be used against the business organization. Such security breach can do massive damage to a company’s reputation besides its competitive advantage in case sensitive and confidential information is lost in the process. In addition, intellectual property may also be lost in case of a security breach involving

The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams Research Paper

The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams - Research Paper Example The Wingfield family is torn apart due to the failings of its breadwinner – Mr. Wingfield. The play has garnered critical acclaim both as a work of written word as well as an enacted play. The further adaptation of this play into a movie is a testament to its enduring essence. But many critics believe that the play is best experienced through theatre performances. Consequently, many production houses have performed it time and over during the last seventy odd years. The intricate design of the plot and superlative performances from star casts of previous productions is now part of legend. Laurette Taylor’s performance as Amanda Wingfield is now acknowledged by many veterans as the best of the century. Just as the powerful script and excellent acting contributes to the success of the play, so does the direction, visualization, music, sound effects and other technical features. The rest of this essay will present the ideal approach to each of these facets to the play, so that the end product would capture all the definitive qualities behind the play’s resounding success. There are a few things to remember while choosing the cast for the play. The character of Amanda is central to the play and it should be assigned to someone who can portray the rugged southern belle image. She should be a strident and bold personality to fit with the description of someone who drove her husband away. The accent too should be spot on to reflect the southern mindset and sensibility. The actor playing Tom Wingfield should reflect the dreamy nature of his character, because he has to deliver the dialogues and monologues equally efficiently. The final speech by Tom in the final act of the play is especially crucial to the overall effectiveness of the play, for this passage is one of the most poetic, intensive and poignant in the entire play. The virginal daughter Laura Wingfield is someone whose dreams are as fragile as the animals in her precious glass collection. The actor for this role should thus play with sensitivity and a restrained sense of quiet tragedy. The chall enge in shaping the character of Tom is to bring to life the idea that the viewer is watching Tom turn his memories, his pain and guilt, into a work of art. To this extent it could be said that author Tennessee Williams was attempting to create a non-realistic theatre, using the literary devices and technical production tools available to him in the 1940s. Hence, modern productions of the play can incorporate some changes, without actually losing the essence of the narrative. For example, rather than a typewriter, Tom's means of turning the stuff of his life into art can be through a video camera. It can always be with him, even when he's disengaged from the action or sets the camera down momentarily. The other characters are seen from Tom's viewpoint, and the projections of what he sees come to represent the layers of his memory. By removing the burden of realism, one is able to hear the play anew. Coming to the scenic design, the director should ask ‘To what degree do we wan t to follow Williams's copious stage directions about lights, clothes, projections and so on?’ The fact that walls and furniture don't seem to be that useful for actors, makes the director look for less literal ways of solving the world of the play – in other words, capturing its essence without total adherence to author’s original and preferred mise-en-scenes. Lighting design for the play can also be challenging at times. For

Relection on Total knee replacement surgery Research Paper

Relection on Total knee replacement surgery - Research Paper Example After the knee is open, a four-step procedure is undertaken to have the knee completely replaced with metallic components, some plastic spacers and button, to enhance the normal functionality of the knee joints. The first step of the knee replacement surgery entails the removal of the damaged knee components, where the damaged knee cartilage on the surface of both tibia and fibula are removed, together with some reasonable amount of the underlying bone (Scuderi & Tria, 2002). This marks the preparation of the knee, for a total replacement, since the already damaged components are removed and the knee is now ready to take a replacement. This step is followed by positioning the metal implants. Here, the components of the knee; the cartilage and the bone surface, are now replaced with some metal components that recreate the surface of the joint (Bellemans, Ries & Victor, 2005). During this replacement, the metal components, which have been prepared to suit the natural knee components, a re either cemented or pressed to fit into the remaining bone component. The next step that follows the positioning of the metal implants is the resurfacing of the patella (the knee cap), which requires the knee cup to be cut and then resurfaced with a plastic button, which will not collide with the metallic implants that have been implanted on the knee (Scuderi & Tria, 2002). However, as explained by the surgeon, depending on the case and extent of the knee damage, the knee cap might not be resurfaced. The final step of the Total knee replacement surgery is to place the spacers. This step entails putting some medical-grade plastic spacers between the metal components that have been implanted on the knee, to create a smooth gliding surface (Bellemans, Ries & Victor, 2005). My feeling during the procedure was that the patient may fail to function fully after the knee is replaced, because the operation was being undertaken for a 70 year old woman. I also felt that the Total knee replac ement surgery was not a very complex sort of operation, although it required a high degree of concentration and precision, lest the metal implantations done on the knee fails to fit accurately and thus lead to more knee problems. The lesson that I learnt from the Total knee replacement surgery procedure is that; it is a surgical procedure that is compatible with all ages. Additionally I learnt that the Total knee replacement surgery is not uniformly done to all people, and that some aspects of the procedure depends on the patient, their situation, and the extent to which their knee is damaged either through injury or arthritis. While the Total knee replacement surgery basically follows a four-step procedure, I realized that the final step of the surgical procedure, referred to as spacer insertion, is not a mandatory or universal step in the Total knee replacement surgery, since it can be omitted for some patients. Another invaluable lesson that I learn regarding the Total knee repla cement surgery is that; the medical history of the patient is fundamental in determining their qualification for the procedure. This is because, the medical history helps the surgeon to assess the strength of the patient

Cyber Bullying in Schools Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Cyber Bullying in Schools - Term Paper Example The paper also seeks to critically analyze the legal framework and policies that are in place to combat the problem of cyber bullying. To this end, the paper has relied on information from various pieces of legislation. The paper will concentrate on implementation of legislation and school programs to prevent and stop cyber bullying in schools. The research will therefore not explore in detail the other ways of combating cyber bullying; like reporting cyber bullying to parents, not responding to emails that are meant for bullying, among others. The paper recognizes that cyber bullying is not only a vice found among children but also adults. The study however does not look into the issue of cyber bullying among adults. Outline The paper is divided into three major parts. The first part is an introduction of the paper. This part outlines the concept of cyber bullying giving the various definitions that have been given by various authors. The introduction gives the various methods used in cyber bullying including use of the internet as well as mobile phones. This part also introduces the concepts of implementation of legislation and school programs to combat cyber bullying. These are the major action plans identified by the paper as solutions to the problem of cyber bullying. The introduction also identifies the various stakeholders who are the key players in the proposed solutions. These are also the audience of the paper, and these are identified as lawmakers, school heads, parents and students. The second part of the paper provides a background and a historical perspective of cyber bullying. In this part, cyber bullying is identified as a form of bullying that emerged as a result of the... This research will begin with the definition of bullying as an act of frightening or harassing a person who is supposedly weaker or smaller. This behavior is triggered by various aspects. For instance a person can be bullied because of their race, their gender, their sexual orientation, religion, weight, disability or even talent. Bullying can take many forms including physical bullying where a person can be kicked, hit or pushed. Bullying can also be verbal or through technology, which is referred to as cyber bullying. Bullying mostly occurs in schools and is mostly physical and verbal but cyber bullying is fast emerging as the preferred way of bullying. Bullying has two players involved, namely the bully and the victim. The victims of bullying vary depending on the form of bullying. For instance bullying can take place as early as kindergarten; this is especially for physical and mostly verbal bullying. At this stage however it is very rare to have cyber bullying for example. Cyber bullying is mostly common among teenagers, who are the frequent users of technology and more so the cyberspace. Canadian teacher Bill Belsey is recognized for having coined the word cyber bullying. Belsey described cyber bullying as the use of technology for repeatedly communicating harmful and hostile messages to others. In understanding cyber bullying, one must realize that there are various forms of cyber bullying and there are tools that are used to commit cyber bullying.

Multicultural Education Final Project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Multicultural Education Final Project - Essay Example The key points of the Constructivist learning theory that make it useful for differentiation in teaching are that it: (1) helps students from different cultural and social backgrounds to interact more naturally; (2) provides a common ground for learning to take place; and (3) helps students to think and be creative, which is one of the important learning objectives I have in my math classes (EBC, 2007; Matthews, 2003). Analyzing the underlying principles show how the theory supports my approach to differentiation. With its emphasis on big concepts that begin with the whole and expanding to include the parts, constructivism provides the intellectual foundation that allows the students coming from diverse cultural and personal backgrounds to grasp concepts of working together, sharing common goals, and appreciating differences. This mindset is useful to guide students - many of whom are traumatized by immigration, the challenge of a new culture, and coping with family problems - to work towards achieving grand objectives and see the part everyone plays in it. By giving value to student questions and interests, the constructivist learning theory helps the students develop self-esteem by making them realize that personal differences make them unique, and that these differences play an important role in the learning process and in fostering unity and agreement within a multicultural environment. The interactivity of learning builds on what students know from their own backgrounds and personal experiences. While I use typical examples from American culture to teach mathematics, I encourage students to use examples from their own cultures to enhance a familiar feel by not completely detaching students from their unique histories. I find this useful when dealing with students coming from cultures of oppression and inferiority, emphasizing for example that while respect for authority is an important value, it needs to be balanced with other values important in a democratic society, such as formation of individuality, love for freedom, and the n eed to establish and achieve high standards (Glatthorn, 1999, p. 5). Unique personal learning is encouraged by the constructivist principle of dialogue with students aimed at helping them construct their own personal knowledge. The teacher's interactive role, rooted in negotiation, helps students acquire life skills that are crucial for their futures. The emphasis on group work reinforces the interaction of the students among themselves so they develop the abilities of self-expression, independent thinking, and understanding differences in viewpoints, all cornerstones of American society. Constructivism's emphasis on process, observations, and tests and the recognition that knowledge is dynamic and changes with personal experience are useful in developing in students the habits of lifelong learning, experimental daring, and the curiosity to learn more about the world around them. Since each culture has unique world views, constructivism helps everyone learn from the different ways people view and learn from the world. This does not mean that Instructivism, the ideological opposite of constructivism, does not contain good points that are useful in making education in a diversified classroom more effective. The Instructivist emphases on developing basic skills, having a well-planned curriculum, the value of repetition, the recognition of the teacher's authority, teaching correct answers, and fostering learning independence

Product Reassessment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Product Reassessment - Essay Example This essay will provide insight of a plan for repositioning Blu Ray Disk into Korean market by focusing on demographics characteristics based on US census data. Additionally, the type of research needed have been scrutinized as well as methods that can be used to increase adoption rates of Blu Ray Disk. The distribution problems that are likely to be encountered in Korean market and ways of addressing them have been scrutinized. This may involve determining how the Blu Ray Disk may fit into Korean market given the fact that some new features have been added in order to meet customer’s needs and wants (Pride & Ferrell, 2012). The following are three components for an effective and efficient repositioning of Blu Ray Disk into Korean market; there must be product positioning, market positioning and brand positioning. Product positioning focus on making Blu Ray disk unique from other disk available in Korean market (Clancy, Krieg & Wolf, 2005). This may be achieved by conducting product differentiation whereby, some cognitive and unique features may be added into the Blu Ray Disk to enhance their capacity and usage (Pride & Ferrell, 2012). On the other hand, Market positioning may help in identification of marketing strategies, whereby; the position of available and impending competitors may be evaluated. Additionally, SWOT analysis model may be applied to identify strength and weakness of competitors in the target market (Pride & Ferrell, 2012). Finally, brand positioning focus on taking into consideration the following attributes; consumer perceptions, brand attributes, price attributes and competitors’ attributes (Pride & Ferrell, 2012). Consumer perceptions may help to evaluate the minds of consumer concerning the available products supplied by the company (Pride & Ferrell, 2012).The issue of price should be taken into consideration. The company should evaluate their prices in relation to those of competitors in

Safeguarding the welfare of children and young people Essay Example for Free

Safeguarding the welfare of children and young people Essay Children’s Social Care Help children who are in need and also if a concern is raised about a child they will decide on the course of action to take. For example carry out and assessment and find out what the child’s needs are and gather all the relevant information that is needed. Police They work with children’s social care to protect children from harm. They have roles and responsibilities which include making a decision on whether a crime has been committed and if it has they will start an investigation and gather evidence from the Children’s social care. Health Professional They will examine children whose injuries they think are non-accidental. If abuse is suspected the health professional will then alert the children’s social care. NSPCC They are the only third sector organisation who can take action when children are at risk of abuse and they also provide support to children and families and a helpline for people to call if they are worried about a child and they also raise awareness of abuse through advertising. Wigan Local Safeguarding Children’s Board These have particular roles and responsibilities to oversee the work of other

Analysis of the Business Cycle in the Economy

Analysis of the Business Cycle in the Economy One of the most difficult subjects in economics in the business cycle or the pattern of contraction and expansion seen in the overall economy, this is a major factor that will effect the profit and sales performance of all companies to an extent. On average business productivity in EC has expanded at a rate of 3% per year in terms of real Gross Domestic Product (GDP). During an expansion in the business cycle, the real GDP can increase to a rate of 5-6% or even more and during a recession it can decline for an extended period. During the years the economy is growing – output, income, and employment are increasing. In other words, the trend in business and general economic activity is upward. But there are fluctuations around what we might call the ‘growth-path’ line. We have terms for the periods when business activity have temporarily pulls us below our upward growth-path, and others for periods when business activity moves with, or in excess of, our normal growth –path. We call the former recessions or depression and the latter expansions or booms. During the boom period employment level is up as are expectations, sales and profits and imports. During this period high risk investments will be undertaken and may inefficient firms will be able to operate, as margins are high. This will subsequently lead to shortage of resources (supply-side effects), this occurs at the highest point. In figures 1.1 the coloured line represents the long-term ‘growth-path’ around which the economic activity fluctuates, moving in some consistent pattern from expansion to recession and back again. This was one of the reasons why UK did not join the Single Currency, as to ensure EMU succeeds in the long-term; all participating member states must operate at the same stage of the business cycle. The Phillips curve illustrates the short-term trade off between inflation and unemployment. The trade of between unemployment and inflation is temporary as government microeconomic policies can in the short-term exploit a trade-off between them using various policy instruments, such as public spending and taxation. Therefore, the government can influence the combination of inflation and unemployment the economy experiences. Therefore, the Phillips curve is critical in the understanding of the business cycle, via measurements such as rate of unemployment or the production of goods and services. When real GDP grows rapidly, business is good. During such periods of economic expansions, businesses will have excess demand and profits are growing. However, when real GDP is declining during a recession, demand is slow and most companies record declining sales and profits. The term business cycle is somewhat misleading, as it would suggest that the fluctuations within the economy follows a regular and predictable pattern. However, fluctuations are not at all regular and very difficult to forecast. If we examine the real GDP within the UK between 1971 and 2004 and define a recession as occurring when GDP declines for two or more successive quarters, then we would see that the UK economy has experienced four recessions since 1971. Recessions can occur quite close together as in the 70’s, but sometime the economy can go one for many years with a recession, as is the case in UK, where we have not suffered a recession since 1991. Real GDP is the most commonly used measure for monitoring changes within a countries economy, as it provides a broad measurement of economic activity. â€Å"Real GDP measures the value of all final goods and services produced within a given period of time.†[1] Changes in the economy’s output of goods and services are strongly correlated with changes in the economy’s utilisation of its labour force. Therefore, when real GDP decreases the rate of unemployment increases. This is not every uncommon as companies will decide to make a smaller quantity of goods, and make redundancies, and this in turn will raise the level of unemployment in the economy. There are two main classes of factors that offer an explanation on business cycles. The first are internal and those occur from actual changes within the economy, for example, changes in stocks. The second is external, and there are factors outside the control of the economy, for example, rise in oil prices, conflict in Iraq etc. Examples of explanations are: Fluctuations in the money supply – when money supply increase at a faster rate then GDP the rate of interest is low and spending increases. Therefore the economy goes into a boom. The increase in demand subsequently results in both firms and individuals wanting more money and therefore, interest rates rise and this reduces investment and consumptions and the economy goes into a recession. This is a Monetarists explanation for business cycles. Stop-go cycles/Political cycles – Government stimulate growth and employment in the economy and this in turn increase demand. This reflationary action results in expansion in the economy and then the government may be concern about inflationary pressures and as a result adopt a deflationary policies, like increase in taxation. This will lead the economy back into a recession. Keynesian cycles – A rise in exports will raise national income by a multiple amount. This will cause investment to increase and subsequently generate more national income. This will reach a point when the economy will experience supply-side shortages like labour and this in turn will mean income grows more slowly then investment will decrease (leading to a recession). Demand and supply-side shocks – caused by unforeseen shocks such as the global financial crisis in 1997 resulting in decreased demand for goods and services across the globe. Real Business Cycle Theory – â€Å"explains cyclical shocks in terms of spurts and starts in technological advance.†[2]Innovations in technologies like MP3, MP4 players, HD Digital Televisions, etc causes an increase in productivity and subsequently higher real wages and more willingness to participate in the labour market. Seasonal work patterns within the leisure and tourism industry is a prime example of cycles that are generated by rational economic agents, hence, the term ‘real’ factors. Other examples or real factors affecting the real business cycle would be bad weather, increase regulation for CO2 emissions, terms of trade, energy prices and oil price fluctuations. Those factors do not require money supply and Keynesian cycles (amongst others discussed earlier) to explain the existences of why business cycles exist. Demand and supply shocks as discussed above and natural disasters like the Tsunami also can have comparable effects to the technology s hocks analysed in real business cycle theory. Real Business Cycle Theory (RBC) The notion of Real Business Cycle (RBC) evolves from a macroeconomic viewpoint that attributes the fluctuations in terms of economic recessions and booms to productivity (GDP) that is as a direct result of random occurrences across the global. This school of thought argues against any form of government intervention via the use of monetary or fiscal policy instruments such as money supply, taxation, government spending etc, to bring the economy out of a recession or control an economy during a period of rapid growth in a boom. The RBC believes the level of GDP will maximise utility at any one time. RBC models are seen as an extension of a neoclassical growth model Therefore, RBC theorists believe that the business cycle is ‘real’ and not a result of market failures, but a reflection of efficient works of the economy. Various criticisms of real business cycle theory has come to light in recent times and also as a result of the research conducted by Kydland and Prescott (Econometrica 1982), who modelled economic variability as â€Å"real† business cycles with efficient markets. This study failed to recognise the impact of any government intervention via monetary policy upon the business cycle, underestimates the existence of market inefficiencies and the role of unemployment (as discussed via the Phillips Curve). Therefore, it is clear that the economic debate on whether business cycles are ‘real’ or a function of cyclical movements is still very much alive. Importance of Business Cycle within EMU The important role of business cycle can be illustrated by the example of the Euro. The introduction of economic and monetary union across 11 of the 15 member states of the European Union is an interesting economic experiment. It has been driven by a political aspiration to create a unified trading block to rival any other trading block in the world. To ensure EMU succeeds in the long-term all participating member states must operate at the same stage of the economic cycle. Reaching that stage will represent the greatest threat to EMU. A very rough way to assess the similarity of the business cycle is to look at the correlation coefficient for annual changes in Gross Domestic Products (GDP) for pairs of countries. Using data from OECD for the period 1971-2000 for Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Netherlands, Spain, Finland, Luxembourg, Portugal and Ireland, it appears that only France, Germany, Spain, Netherlands, Austria, Belgium, Portugal and Italy with correlation ranging between 0.83 (France/Belgium) to 0.47 (Italy/Spain) have similarity in business cycle. The Finland business cycle is closest to France (0.49), Belgium (0.43) and Spain (o.41), but distant from Germany (0.005) and Netherlands (0.19). In this sample, the country that is indeed not well integrated into a common European business cycle is Ireland. The Irish economy is closest to that of Netherlands (0.32), Finland (0.32) and most distant from Italy (-0.02). The Irish business cycle has a negative relationship to that of the Italian. This suggests that when Italy is experiencing a boom Ireland will be in a recession or steady economic growth. The Irish economy is the acid test of whether or not the Euro works. Most members are coming out of a recession whereas Ireland is in a state of boom. Aust. Fra. Ger Italy Nether Spain Ire Bel. Fin Lux. Port. Aust. 1 Fra. 0.71 1 Ger 0.65 0.61 1 Italy 0.57 0.71 0.57 1 Nether 0.63 0.63 0.71 0.54 1 Spain 0.67 0.74 0.47 0.46 0.61 1 Ire 0.12 0.21 0.14 -0.02 0.32 0.28 1 Bel 0.67 0.83 0.63 0.75 0.68 0.74 0.23 1 Fin 0.26 0.49 0.00 0.39 0.19 0.41 0.32 0.43 1 Lux 0.30 0.34 0.41 0.31 0.49 0.40 0.13 0.42 0.12 1 Port 0.74 0.82 0.63 0.69 0.51 0.67 0.17 0.73 0.37 0.34 1 Source: OECD Economic Outlook December 1998 July 1991, Own calculation of correlation matrix The subject of business cycle and real business cycle still has many questions to answer; the primary is what is the principal source of cyclical movements in GDP of an economy? Are the fluctuations in GDP caused by technology or are the movements in GDP due to government interventions via monetary and fiscal policy implementations? Those are critical questions, and the answers to which would serve as a great benefit to both firms and governments. It would provide firms at a microeconomic level a greater ability to accurately forecast business cycles and hence, consolidate there profits, and government in estimating the resulting welfare costs of a shift in macroeconomic policy like increase public spending, lower taxation, lower interest rates etc. In my opinion the dominant view of a business cycle is still one that is caused by a change in monetary policy and not just as a result of ‘real’ factors like technological innovation or political events like war or trade disputes. We believe that those real events do play some part in the fluctuations around the business cycle but business cycles are still primarily caused as a result of fluctuations in economic activity such as employment and production as measured by GDP. OECD Economic Outlook December 1998 July 1991 Mankiw, N.G. and Taylor, M.P. (2006) Economics, Thomson Learning McAleese, D., (2004) Economics for Business Third Edition, FT Prentice Hall Grant, S.J., (2000) Stanlake’s Introductory Economics 7th Edition, Longman Stanlake G.F, (2000) Macroeconomics: An Introduction, Longman Group UK Greenaway, David; Shaw, G.K., Macroeconomics Theory and Policy in the UK Second Edition (1991), Basil Blackwell. Dornbusch, Rudiger; Fischer, Stanley, Macroeconomics Fifth Edition (1990) McGraw-Hill International Editions Footnotes [1] Gregory, M. and Taylor, M.P. (2006) [2] McAleese, D. (2004)