A new study published in Nature has found that tectonic plates may change directions rapidly, or “wobble,” several months before a massive quake is released.¹ Scientists are not sure why, but it may lead to a future breakthrough in earthquake predictions.

The accurate prediction of an earthquake could potentially save thousands of lives. Everything from the study of strange animal behavior to satellites mapping changes in surface elevation have been employed to try and predict earthquakes. However, few of these methods have been shown to be reliable or accurate.

Recently, geologist Harry S. Pettingill has found that deepwater oil and gas fields may be more environmentally friendly than first thought.1 In this day and age of trying to find an energy source that makes the smallest environmental impact, we may have overlooked a solution right below our feet…or actually, deep beneath the ocean.

Recently, a new study published in Nature Communications found that mountain streams may be much larger contributors to the global carbon cycle than previously believed.¹ The study suggests that this is a consequence of the higher turbulence levels of most mountain streams.

Biological systems that allow organisms to function, grow, and adapt bear the hallmarks of being exquisitely engineered. These complex systems exhibit the same design principles that human engineers use to create successful machines and devices.