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Geophysics is the study of the forces that shape the Earth from a global perspective. Learn about gravity, plate tectonics and other topics.

Exactly what happens if we run out of water?

Featured Article: Exactly what happens if we run out of water?

On a planet that is 70 percent water, people don't have enough clean, safe water to drink. We're in a water crisis, and water rights are becoming a big issue. What happens if we just plain run out? See more »

Disappearing Lake Quiz

Disappearing Lake Quiz

A lake in South America suddenly disappeared and left scientists wondering where all the water went. Is it possible that a lake can abruptly vanish? And if so, what are the causes behind this watery mystery?

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Exactly what happens if we run out of water?

Exactly what happens if we run out of water?

On a planet that is 70 percent water, people don't have enough clean, safe water to drink. We're in a water crisis, and water rights are becoming a big issue. What happens if we just plain run out?

See more »
How can a lake simply disappear?

How can a lake simply disappear?

A lake in South America has disappeared and has left scientists wondering where all the water went to. Is it possible that a lake can abruptly vanish?

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How can parts of Canada be "missing" gravity?

How can parts of Canada be "missing" gravity?

For more than 40 years, scientists have tried to figure out what's causing large parts of Canada to be "missing" gravity. The force of gravity around Hudson Bay is lower than surrounding areas. Learn about two theories that may explain the phenomenon.

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How did Lake Nyos suddenly kill 1,700 people?

How did Lake Nyos suddenly kill 1,700 people?

One evening, people heard their local lake rumbling. A day and a half later, 1,700 people were dead. What happened on that fateful evening?

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How Glaciers Work

How Glaciers Work

Glaciers carve out lakes, grind down mountains and pulverize rocks to dust. These massive ice slabs shape our Earth, but they may be disappearing.

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How Icebergs Work

How Icebergs Work

One iceberg sank the unsinkable Titanic, and another exploded in front of an expedition. These floating chunks of ice carry their bulk deceptively below the surface of the water. What else are they hiding?

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How Maps Work

How Maps Work

It's no secret that maps are handy. If you get lost, a map can help you find your way. Maps are representations of data that can describe nearly anything about the world. Find out how map data is gathered and how maps are made.

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How the Earth Works

How the Earth Works

Even though it's tiny compared to the rest of the universe, the Earth is enormous, and it's extremely complex. Systems powered by the sun are able to sustain the various life forms living on Earth. Learn what ties all the parts of the Earth together.

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How Water Works

How Water Works

In its purest form, it's odorless, nearly colorless and tasteless. It's in your body, the food you eat and the beverages you drink. All forms of life need it. What substance is more necessary to our existence than any other? Water.

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Water Quiz

Water Quiz

Water is quite arguably the most important substance on Earth. Its unique properties make it an incredibly versitile tool. Aside from fueling life, it's useful in cleaning, cooking and transportation, just to name a few things.

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What are the four fundamental forces of nature?

What are the four fundamental forces of nature?

What are they? We'll give you a hint -- or four. Earth, wind, water and fire aren't among them, but our old friend and force gravity is.

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What if a main water supply were infected with some form of bacteria?

What if a main water supply were infected with some form of bacteria?

The United States has an abundant supply to clean drinking water available in homes and businesses. But what if that water turned out not to be so clean? And what about the water supply around the world?

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What if there were no gravity on Earth?

What if there were no gravity on Earth?

Have you ever wondered what would happen if we were able to flip a switch and turn the Earth's gravity off for a day? The end result may surprise you.

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What is a geomagnetic substorm?

What is a geomagnetic substorm?

On February 17, NASA launched a rocket with a record-setting five satellites onboard. The $200 million mission is to discover the source of an atmospheric phenomenon known as the geomagnetic substorm.

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What is wastewater agriculture?

What is wastewater agriculture?

Though it may seem disgusting to some, people all over the world must use waste water to irrigate their crops. Can you get sick from wastewater irrigation?

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Why can't we manufacture water?

Why can't we manufacture water?

Water is just hydrogen and oxygen, so why can't we do what nature does and combine the two? Unfortunately, it's not that simple, and the results can be rather ... explosive.

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Why is Arctic ice melting 50 years too fast?

Why is Arctic ice melting 50 years too fast?

It used to take three years to get through the thick ice of the Northwest Passage. Now, you can sail from New York to Korea without hitting any ice at all. Where is all the ice going, and what are the ramifications of it melting 50 years too fast?

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7 Wonders of the Natural World

7 Wonders of the Natural World

The 7 wonders of the natural world capture the imagination with their natural power and beauty. There is nothing that man can create that can match the beauty nature can create. Learn about all 7, including the great barrier reef.

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How much does planet Earth weigh?

How much does planet Earth weigh?

The Earth is incredibly heavy. How do scientists determine the weight of the Earth?

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