Researchers in France have found that the high conductivity of the Earth’s upper mantle is due to molten carbonates. They have demonstrated the very high conductivity of this form of carbon. Their work has revealed the high carbon content of the interior of the upper mantle. This composition can be directly linked to the quantity of carbon dioxide produced by 80% of volcanoes.

3 Dec 2008

As the holidays approach, many shoppers look for the elusive perfect gift. Children's presents are easy — there's never a shortage of new toys, games and electronics — but adults can be a challenge. How about giving a gift to Mother Earth instead?

3 Dec 2008

The Wall Street Journal has artfully assembled a collection mostly public indicators that Google is trying to rein in its expenses, but there are a few nuggets of note about the near-mythic company coming down to earth.

3 Dec 2008

Editor's note: Marine geophysicist Robin Bell is leading an expedition to Antarctica to explore a mysterious mountain range beneath the ice sheet. Following is the seventh of her updates on the effort as part of ScientificAmerican.com's in-depth report on the "Future of the Poles." McMURDO STATION, ANTARCTICA--Thanksgiving weekend was long and gray.  All work stopped in the U.S. Antarctic ...

3 Dec 2008

City Comment

3 Dec 2008

Sometime ago I met a person who said that for at least six months, they realized they had never touched the earth. They went from their house, to attached garage, to pavement and sidewalk and street, and into a building, never stepping on soil or grass. I suppose if you live in a big city that is not hard to do and maybe not even uncommon. Such a person only comes in contact with grass or soil ...

3 Dec 2008