Deep Dive
What was the mysterious seismic signal that puzzled seismologists for a year, and where did it originate?
The mysterious seismic signal was a series of unusual seismic waves that repeated every few hours for nine days, originating from East Greenland. It was caused by a massive landslide in a fjord, triggered by the thinning of a glacier due to climate change.
What were the immediate and long-term impacts of the landslide and tsunami in Greenland?
The landslide caused a tsunami that damaged a research base on Ella Island and destroyed some abandoned settlements. No one was injured, but the event highlighted the unprecedented nature of such occurrences in the region, which had not seen a similar event in at least 200 years.
How did the seismic signal persist for nine days after the landslide and tsunami?
The seismic signal persisted for nine days due to a standing wave in the fjord. The initial tsunami wave reflected off the opposite shoreline and continued to bounce back and forth, creating a standing wave that lasted for nine days, traveling every 90 seconds.
What changes have occurred in the mating behavior of mongooses in their introduced populations compared to their ancestral environment?
In introduced populations, mongooses have larger testes and vestigial scent glands. This is because they no longer need long-distance communication for mating and males can mate with multiple females. However, females have not yet evolved to exert choice in mating.
What is the significance of the History of Science Museum in Oxford, and what is its vision for the next 100 years?
The History of Science Museum in Oxford, celebrating its 100th anniversary, has been a hub for scientific collections and studies. Its vision for the next 100 years includes making the museum more accessible to the public with plans for a lift, new welcome space, and staff areas, while preserving its historic heritage.
What role did bedpans play in the development of penicillin during World War II?
During World War II, bedpans were used as containers to grow penicillin cultures at the William Dunn School of Pathology in Oxford. This was a practical solution to the lack of specialized equipment, enabling the production of penicillin on a scale large enough to treat thousands of people.
How does Simon Grove's approach to nature in Tasmania reflect the concept of fractals?
Simon Grove's approach to nature in Tasmania is similar to the concept of fractals, where focusing on one small aspect of nature reveals deeper and more intricate details. He emphasizes the importance of close observation and immersion in nature to understand the interconnectedness and complexity of ecosystems.
What unique features of Tasmania's mountaintops are highlighted in Simon Grove's book 'Seasons in the South'?
In 'Seasons in the South,' Simon Grove highlights the unique features of Tasmania's mountaintops, such as flightless grasshoppers, endemic mountain cicadas, and jewel beetles. These species have adapted to the short summer season and the harsh conditions of the mountaintops, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the region.
What is the setting of the mysterious forest walk described at the end of the podcast, and what makes it unique?
The forest walk is set in a future where the region is protected by a biodome, and the landscape includes a stream, moss, and a diverse array of animals like leopards, dingoes, bears, and wolves. The unique aspect is the presence of two tiny moons orbiting the planet, suggesting a futuristic or extraterrestrial setting.
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