Geology students should check out this article on China's monopoly on rare earth elements and how this may or may not affect America's national security. These elements, like Neodymium and Samarium have unique properties that allow them to be used in batteries and other hardware. The trouble is, while they are not really "rare", they are hard to find in economical quantities. They are expensive, as a result, for western nations to mine. China has managed to mine them quite cheaply and thus controls 97% of the world's supply. Your cell phone needs them. Your computer needs them. Your car needs them...but they ALL come from China.
BRCC students should remember their sediment samples and the GPS units by tomorrow. Friday, we'll analyze the dry samples. On the 15th and 17th, we have two field trips coming up. Expect to come early. We'll need extra time!
Geology students -- We're in the computer lab tomorrow and will be travelling to Timberville Park on Monday. Dress warmly! I'll give you permission slips tomorrow.
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Astronomy students should ask themselves whether the $100 billion dollar international space station was worth it. This station has always been controversial, even among scientists. Read the article and put some thought into it.
We will be wrapping up the History of Astronomy and taking the quiz on that chapter next time (6th period -- Friday, 1st period -- Monday. Be ready! Our next topic is the solar system.
Best Wishes...
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