Earth Science

From the Arctic Circle to the warm climes of the southern border, the mountain ranges in the U.S. offer some of the most stunning, geologically diverse landscapes in North America.

By Grant Virellan

Spanning thousands of miles across the heart of Asia and Eastern Europe, the steppe is one of Earth's most expansive and ecologically important biomes. These vast, flat grassy plains stretch from Hungary in the west to Mongolia and northern China in the east, forming what is known as the Eurasian Steppe.

By Grant Virellan

With its vivid red waters and stunning surrounding terrain, Lake Natron is one of East Africa's most mesmerizing and otherworldly natural wonders.

By Grant Virellan

A subduction zone can shake things up — literally. These geological features are responsible for some of the most intense earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis.

By Yara Simón

The United States is home to some truly spectacular lakes. Whether considering the massive Great Lakes themselves or deep alpine gems like Lake Tahoe, with its crystal-clear waters, America is well-stocked with many sizable bodies of water.

By Zach Taras

Although most of the highest mountains in the world are in Asia (looking at you, Mount Everest and Himalayas), the United States is home to some of the most breathtaking and impressive mountain ranges in the world.

By Talon Homer

American lakes are a vital feature of the country's landscape and cultural identity; from the Great Lakes in the Upper Penninsula to the picturesque Ozarks of the Midwest, citizens have flocked to these large freshwater sources for trade, natural resources and top-notch recreational activities.

By Mitch Ryan

If a random stranger were to stop you on the street and say, "Excuse me, but what's the tallest mountain in the world?" you will probably give them the correct answer: Mount Everest.

By Zach Taras

Waterfalls are easily among the most spectacular natural wonders of the planet. The constant flow of water can suggest infinity, and the raw sensations - the thundering roar, the rising mist, the sheer volume of water - attest to nature's grandeur and power.

By Zach Taras

The United States has some impressive lakes, including some of the biggest bodies of freshwater in the world. If you're looking at a map, however, you can't necessarily determine how deep any of these lakes are. So if it's depth you seek, read on to learn about the deepest lake in the U.S., as well as several of the runners-up.

By Zach Taras

The Andes mountains span over 4,300 miles along South America's western edge, traversing seven countries from Venezuela to Chile. Famous for its towering peaks like Aconcagua and ancient ruins such as Machu Picchu, the Andes are a captivating mix of natural wonders and historical treasures.

By Desiree Bowie

Imagine walking through a dusty, arid landscape when you stumble upon a seemingly ordinary rock. Its rough exterior might not catch the eye, but what lies within surely will. Geodes are one of nature's most spectacular treasures, offering a glimpse into the geological processes that shape our Earth.

By Clarissa Mitton

Winding through the South Carolina low country, the Cooper River is a reed-lined haven for sportfish and shorebirds. The waterway originates in Berkeley County's Lake Moultrie. From there, it proceeds all the way down to Charleston, where it merges with the Ashley and the Wando to form that city's world-famous harbor. (Ever hear of Fort Sumter?)

By Mark Mancini

Scientists have long been fascinated by the ocean's dynamic nature, where the force of the water collides with atmospheric phenomena to create waves of monumental size.

By Clarissa Mitton

The notion of Africa splitting has the attention scientists and geologists worldwide, as the Great Rift Valley stretches and tears at the Earth's crust.

By Clarissa Mitton

In the western Sahara Desert lies a natural wonder that has intrigued scientists and adventurers for centuries. Known as the Richat Structure - or, more commonly, the Eye of the Sahara - this massive geological formation resembles a giant eye.

By Marie Look

The Atacama Desert, situated in northern Chile, is not just any ordinary arid region. Spanning over 600 miles (965 km) along the Pacific Coast of South America, it is one of the most extreme landscapes on the planet. Thanks to certain oceanic conditions, there are areas that have received zero rainfall throughout recorded history, making the Atacama Desert the driest place on Earth.

By Marie Look

One of Earth's most interesting natural features, the Caspian Sea is the largest inland body of water on the planet, defying conventional classifications to be both a sea and a lake.

By Marie Look

We bet you're looking up the longest river in the U.S. to settle a bet: Is it the Missouri River or the Mississippi River? It depends how you measure.

By Marie Look

The smallest state in the U.S.A. isn't the same as the state with the lowest population. In fact, the five smallest by each measure are completely different.

By Yara Simón

Obsidian is more than just a beautiful stone. Discover its profound meaning and how it can serve as a powerful tool for healing and protection. Don’t miss out on the chance to learn about its transformative properties.

By HowStuffWorks

Discover the deep allure of smoky quartz meaning. Explore its grounding properties and metaphysical benefits. Unveil the mystique today.

By HowStuffWorks

Explore Aventurine meaning: a shimmering gem of luck and opportunity. Discover its healing properties and spiritual significance. Dive in now.

By HowStuffWorks

Discover Jade meaning: a revered gem of harmony and wisdom. Uncover its cultural significance and powerful metaphysical properties. Dive in now.

By HowStuffWorks

Uncover Pyrite meaning: a glittering symbol of wealth & protection. Explore its properties & spiritual significance. Delve into Pyrite's allure now.

By HowStuffWorks