Geography And Climate Ancient Egypt - 1443 Words

Location, Geography and Climate Ancient Egypt is known to have been the world’s longest lasting civilization due to their unique climatic and geographic conditions, a stable hierarchical society of government, and a religion that revolves around death and afterlife. Egypt’s glory went on for over four millennia from around 5500 B.C.E. to its conquest by the Greek in 332 B.C.E. Egypt is located in the northern edge of the Sahara desert, with the river Nile dissecting the land from the south to the north. Herodotus, a Greek Historian, in the fifth century wrote about his travels in Egypt where he portrayed the importance of the beautiful Nile as: â€Å" Egypt is the gift of the Nile. (1)† From the beginning the greatness of Egypt came from the Nile (figure 1). The Nile was an artery of Egypt that connected the Upper and Lower side of Egypt and also offered them protection from any outside invasion. The Nile was a paradise for people as its fresh water overflowed its bank yearly creating a fertile valley. As Egypt is a hot and dry place with very few trees and vegetation, over time, people started to settle along the borders of the Nile, where they started to develop strong agricultural communities. Due to the lack of intensity and predictability of the Niles seasons, it allowed the Egyptians to become successful, as it was cooler and easier to harvest crops. The Egyptians then began to build canals, terraced fields and ditches to control water and increasing their cropShow MoreRelatedAncient Mesopotamia And Egypt Different1029 Words   |  5 PagesAncient Mesopotamia Egypt; Different The Same Long before you and I today were societies in formation. These fascinating societies took place in Mesopotamia and Egypt in ancient times. Many factors contributed to the similarities and the differences that occurred between the two; including geography, religion, and social structures. A glance at the these factors will give us a better understanding of a couple of the first societies or civilizations that occurred before people today. In orderRead MoreThe Most Influential Innovators Of The Ancient World Essay1510 Words   |  7 Pagesthe Sumerians, who became known as one of the most influential innovators of the ancient world. A couple thousand miles southwest of Mesopotamia lies the land of Egypt. Like Mesopotamia, Egypt had the mighty Nile flowing south to north, pouring into the Mediterranean Sea. Egypt was covered in rich fertile soil near the Nile and surrounded by desolate desert outside of the river valley. Egypt was home to the ancient Egyptians who created the well-known monumental engineering feats, the pyramids. 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They had different thoughts on the creation of their gods, the universe and of man. This essay will discuss the relationship between humans and their gods in three different ancient civilizations: Sumerian, Egyptian and Hebrew. The Sumerians lived in a harsh climate. They were located between two rivers, the Euphrates and the TigrisRead MoreSumerian vs. Egyptian Civilizations: Political Structure Religion Society and Culture820 Words   |  3 PagesDescribe the ancient Sumerian and Egyptian civilizations in terms of political structure, religion, society, and culture. Account for the similarities and differences between them. Despite the fact that ancient Sumerian and Egyptian civilizations grew up rather close together, both civilizations evolved in vastly different ways. The influence of geography cannot be underestimated. Although both civilizations were located in what is now the Middle East, ancient Sumerians lived in a constant stateRead MoreHarsher Struggles for African American Women than Men1441 Words   |  6 Pagesself-betterment. In the religions of Ancient Egypt, Buddhism and Christianity, a clear link between environment and religion can be seen. Religion has always been present in large civilizations and is a product of the environment, climate and geography. The sun god Ra was the most important and powerful of all in the polytheistic Ancient Egyptian religion (Shaw, 273). Not many of the images that come to mind when â€Å"Egypt† is mentioned contain clouds, and that is because the land of Egypt has sweltering weatherRead MoreFactors That Affect The Rise And Fall Of Civilizations Essay914 Words   |  4 PagesClimate and Some Factors Effect the Rise and the Fall of Mayan Civilization Area and Egyptian Civilization Area In ancient time, environmental factors were very important. 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Improving The Design Of Buildings After 9 11 Environmental Sciences Essay Free Essays

string(279) " to rate the ability of these edifices to defy accidents and onslaughts \( V5 to V6 \) on a five-point Likert graduated table, where 1 denotes â€Å" strongly disagree † , 3 denotes â€Å" neither agree nor disagree † and 5 denotes â€Å" strongly agree † \." Following the terrorist onslaught on the New York World Trade Center in 2001, this paper seeks to look into the design features that would heighten the safety of tall edifices. Design/methodology/approach – Using a questionnaire, informations have been collected via electronic mails and by station from designers and civil applied scientists ( AEs ) in Singapore. Structured interviews were conducted with public governments. We will write a custom essay sample on Improving The Design Of Buildings After 9 11 Environmental Sciences Essay or any similar topic only for you Order Now Findingss – The consequences show that AEs perceive tall edifices to be by and large safe in footings of structural design, fire safety characteristics and agencies of flight. The consequences besides show that AEs confirm the demand to better the safety of tall edifices further, are doing an attempt to turn to the heightened safety concern, will give full support to enterprises to turn to heightened safety concerns, will hold to carry on hazard appraisal during the design stage and will welcome a performance-based design codification. AEs do non hold that edifices should be designed to defy hydrocarbon fires or aircraft onslaughts. The study consequences further reveal that the four most effectual methods to better the safety of tall edifices are supplying issue marks with illuming at floor degrees, a separate design codification for super tall edifices, supplying fire safety and deliverance floors, and the decentalisation of fire systems. Originality/value – The importance of this paper is that it investigates the safety characteristics and steps that can cast some visible radiation on heightening the safety of tall edifices. The findings may be used by constructing governments to explicate future steps and codifications to better heighten the safety of tall edifices. Based on the findings, farther research on each executable method of bettering the safety of tall edifices may be undertaken. The unprecedented devastation of the New York World Trade Center ( WTC ) by terrorists on September 11, 2001 ( 9/11 ) signified new menaces to tall icon edifices and has led to heightened concerns over the safety facets of tall edifices. Present safety characteristics in tall edifices might be unequal in get bying with such hazards, particularly when current edifice design and building have concentrated on the more normal types of accidents and catastrophes that can bechance constructions and their residents. There may be a demand to do edifices more robust and to guarantee better protection for a edifice ‘s residents. After 9/11, some issues need to be addressed. For illustration, is it necessary to guarantee that edifices are capable of defying the sort of impact suffered by the WTC? In reevaluating the hazards to the built environment, should edifices be designed to defy aircraft onslaughts, or simply to guarantee that there is sufficient clip for the residents to evacuate before the edifice prostrations? The aims of this survey are: to look into how safe tall edifices are/should be ; and to analyze the feasibleness of assorted methods to better the design of tall edifices to do them safer. The positions of designers and civil applied scientists ( AEs ) and relevant edifice governments in Singapore were obtained through a questionnaire study and interviews. Singapore is a relevant state for this survey to be conducted because it is a little city state, where land is scarce, and tower block, high-density life is the norm. Singapore besides likely has one of the highest concentrations of tall edifices per hectare of land in the universe. The importance of this paper is that it investigates the safety characteristics and steps that can cast some visible radiation on heightening the safety of tall edifices. The findings may be used by constructing governments to explicate future steps and codifications to better heighten the safety of tall edifices. Based on the findings, farther research on each executable method of bettering the safety of tall edifices may be undertaken. Proposed methods to better safety of tall edifices To measure the deductions of 9/11, the USA and the UK edifice governments and other related authorities bureaus have established groups and undertaking forces consisting edifice experts around the universe. These groups and undertaking forces seek to place life-safety issues and suggest new methods to better the public presentation of future tall edifices and guarantee sufficient emptying clip for edifice residents. In planing edifices against menace, Mr Robert Prieto, of Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. , highlighted the three Rs of menace design: â€Å" Design to defy the menace. Design to react to the menace. Design to retrieve from the menace † ( Post, 2001a ) . From a literature reappraisal, some of the methods that have been suggested by applied scientists and practicians in an attempt to better the safety public presentation of tall edifices are summarized in Table I. Column 2 of Table I shows that there are 23 possible ways to better the safety of tall edifices. These are categorized into five chief headers: structural design ; fire technology ; agencies of flight ; stuffs engineering ; and codifications and ordinances. How executable these methods will be is still unknown and remains to be determined. Therefore, this paper aims to happen out the suitableness of these methods by proving them in the field. Methodology The survey comprised a sample study and structured interviews to garner the positions of AEs and edifice governments, severally. The intent of the study was to happen out AEs ‘ perceptual experiences of the safety of tall edifices in Singapore and the feasibleness of steps that could be adopted to better the safety degrees of tall edifices. The intent of the interviews was to analyze the edifice governments ‘ attempts in turn toing the safety of tall edifices after 9/11. A questionnaire was designed for the study. The first subdivision of the questionnaire sought to find the profile and demographic inside informations of the respondents. In the 2nd subdivision, respondents were asked to rate the safety degree of tall edifices in Singapore ( V1 to V4 ) on a ten-point Likert graduated table, where 1 denotes â€Å" really insecure † , 5 denotes â€Å" satisfactory † and 10 denotes â€Å" really safe † . They were besides asked to rate the ability of these edifices to defy accidents and onslaughts ( V5 to V6 ) on a five-point Likert graduated table, where 1 denotes â€Å" strongly disagree † , 3 denotes â€Å" neither agree nor disagree † and 5 denotes â€Å" strongly agree † . You read "Improving The Design Of Buildings After 9 11 Environmental Sciences Essay" in category "Essay examples" The respondents ‘ positions on the heightened safety concern and the critical issues related to 9/11 ( V7 to V16 ) were besides obtained utilizing the same five-point Likert graduated table. The 3rd subdivision sought to find the feasibleness and pertinence of the methods uncovered from the literature reappraisal. Respondents were asked to bespeak whether they thought the proposed method should be adopted, non adopted, or were diffident. They were besides encouraged to notice and give grounds for their responses. The complete mail study bundle comprised a screen missive, the questionnaire and a stamped, self-addressed and envelope. Data for the study were collected via electronic mail, surface mail and telephone. AEs were targeted for the study because the work that they do is straight relevant to constructing safety. Eighty and 160 questionnaires were sent to randomly selected AEs in the public and private sectors, severally. Public-sector AEs were identified through the Singapore Government ‘s published directory. Private-sector AEs were obtained from Internet Yellow Pages ( 2002a, B, degree Celsius ) . Besides the study, structured interviews were conducted with authorities functionaries from the Building and Construction Authority ( BCA ) and the Fire Safety and Shelter Bureau ( FSSB ) . The intent of the interviews was to happen out their attempts in turn toing the safety of tall edifices. The BCA was selected because it is the chief regulator of Singapore ‘s building industry ( Building and Construction Authority, 2002a, B ) . The FSSB is the local authorization in fire safety and bomb shelter ordinances ( Singapore Civil Defence Force, 2002 ) . E-mails explicating the intent of the research were sent to the governments to bespeak permission to carry on the interviews. Agreements for the interview Sessionss were so made with interviewees who were involved in the reappraisal of edifice safety after 9/11. Survey consequences and informations analysis Thirty-four questionnaires were received, giving an overall response rate of 14 per centum. The public sector response rate ( 28 per centum ) was higher than the private sector response rate ( 8 per centum ) . The good response rate from public-sector respondents may be because the several Human Resource Departments agreed to administer the questionnaires. The low response rate from the private sector respondents may be because these AEs felt that their chief duty is to follow the design codifications, and it is up to the authorities to alter the codifications. To increase the response rate, phone calls were made to the AEs to bespeak their engagement. Unfortunately, some of the mark respondents were normally busy or administrative staff were loath to set the calls through. The profile of the respondents is summarized in Table II. It can be seen that the bulk of the respondents held senior places in their organisations. The bulk of the respondents were applied scientists, and many of them were from the public-sector lodging authorization. Furthermore, the bulk of the respondents ( 79 per centum ) had worked in the building industry for more than five old ages. This would do their feedback more accurate and dependable. Almost all the respondents ( 88 per centum ) had been involved in the building of tall residential edifices. The public-sector respondents focused more on residential edifices, while the private-sector respondents were more involved in tall commercial edifices. We now describe the profile of the interviewees. The interviewee from the BCA was a senior director who had a civil technology grade. Prior to fall ining the BCA, he had worked in the building industry for 25 old ages and was involved in the building of major substructure and edifice undertakings. The FSSB interviewee held a sheepskin in stuffs and measures in add-on to his civil technology grade. He had worked in the FSSB for more than 15 old ages and was involved in reexamining the Fire Code. The positions of these capable affair experts ( SMExperts ) were incorporated in the relevant treatment subdivisions. Datas were entered into the Statistical Package for Social Sciences ( SPSS ) package for analysis. Average evaluations for all the variables were calculated ( Table III, column 3 ) . A one-sample t-test of the mean was carried out to look into whether the population would hold with the variables surveyed. For variables V1 to V4, the void hypothesis ( H 0 ) that tall edifices are regarded as insecure and the alternate hypothesis ( H 1 ) that tall edifices are regarded as safe are set out as: H 0. I?a†°Ã‚ ¤5. H 1. I? gt ; 5. I? is the population mean, and is taken as 5 on a ten-point evaluation graduated table. For variables V5 to V16, the void hypothesis that respondents disagree with the variable and the alternate hypothesis that respondents agree with the variable are set out as: H 0. I?a†°Ã‚ ¤3. H 1. I? gt ; 3. The degree of significance ( I ± ) was set at 0.05. If the deliberate p-value is greater than or equal to 0.05, H 0 is non rejected and the consequence is non important. If the p-value is less than 0.05, H 0 is rejected and the consequence is important beyond the 5 per centum degree. The consequences are shown in Table III ( columns 4 and 5 ) . An independent samples t-test was carried out to find whether the public and private sector respondents shared the same positions on the variables surveyed or otherwise. The degree of significance ( I ± ) was besides set at 0.05. The nothing and alternate hypotheses are: H 0. I? public=I? private. H 1. I? publica†° I? private. When H 0 is non rejected, it is concluded that there is no difference in the average evaluations by both sectors. The rejection of H 0 agencies that both sectors of the building industry have differing positions with regard to the variable being tested. Levene ‘s Test was used to look into for equality of discrepancies between the two groups of respondents ( Gray and Kinnear, 1997 ) . It was found that there was no important difference, and hence a pooled estimation of the population discrepancy was used. The consequences of the t-test of the difference between agencies are given in Table III ( columns 6-9 ) . The consequences show that there is no important difference between the positions of public and private sector respondents except for point V16. In point V16, both public and private sector professionals disagreed that tall edifices should be designed to defy aeroplane onslaughts, but private sector professionals disagreed to a greater extent. In the 3rd subdivision of the questionnaire, the respondents indicated whether a suggested step should be implemented ( agree ) , non implemented ( disagree ) or they are diffident about its pertinence in bettering the safety of tall edifices. The consequences are shown in Table I ( columns 4-7 ) . The four most popular methods are: supply issue marks with illuming at floor degrees ; supply a separate design codification for ace high-rise edifices ; supply fire safety and deliverance floors ; and supply a decentralized fire system. These consequences are now discussed. How safe tall edifices are/should be The one-sample t-test consequences ( Table III ) show that in general, the respondents are of the sentiment that tall edifices in Singapore are safe ( V1 ) . They besides have more than equal structural design ( V2 ) , fire safety ( V3 ) and means of flight ( V4 ) . Among the four safety appraisal of tall edifices, the average safety evaluation for structural design is highest at 7.88. Respondents felt that this facet of the edifice is the most earnestly considered in guaranting the safety of edifices. In add-on, tall edifices will be able to defy normal accidents ( V5 ) , but will fall in upon an aircraft onslaught ( V6 ) . The above consequences may be biased towards the sentiments and perceptual experiences of the respondents. This is because the population surveyed is likely to react that edifices are safe because they are involved in the design procedure, and stating that a edifice is insecure brings into inquiry their design patterns. In add-on, a big per centum of public functionaries responded to this study. These public functionaries can non be seen to hold no assurance in the safety of tall edifices when they have a responsibility of attention to normal citizens. Of the 10 steps proposed ( V7-V16 ) , six ( V7, V9, V10, V11, V13, V14 ) are significantly of import ( p lt ; 0.05 ) . Respondents felt that there is a important demand to better the safety of tall edifices ( V7 ) . Consistent with this response, the respondents disagreed that tall edifices do non necessitate extra safety steps ( V12 ) . This shows that there is room for betterment and supports the demand to heighten edifice safety. Respondents felt that they have the expertness to better the safety of tall edifices ( V9 ) . The findings are promoting. It shows that AEs have the proficient capableness to do tall edifices even safer. The respondents besides agreed that they have made an attempt to turn to the heightened safety concern ( V10 ) . In add-on, they will give fullest support to the building industry to turn to the safety of edifices ( V11 ) . However, this issue is non their chief concern ( V8 ) , possibly because the tall edifices are already structurally safe ( V2 ) . Respondents agreed that there is a demand for hazard appraisals to be conducted on tall edifices during the design stage ( V13 ) . These hazard appraisals will help edifice interior decorators in placing the likely menaces faced by edifices ( Broughton, 2002 ; Linn, 2002 ) . Buildings are so designed to turn to the menaces to heighten their safety public presentation. Respondents besides agreed that a performance-based codification might supply better safety counsel than the normative codification for tall edifices ( V14 ) . The SMExperts revealed that the governments have already recognized the demand for a performance-based codification because it offers more flexibleness to interior decorators. For alone edifices such as airdromes and large-sized indoor bowls, interior decorators may non be able to use the conventional normative codifications straight. The findings show that respondents are opposed to planing edifices to defy hydrocarbon fires ( V15 ) and aircraft onslaughts ( V16 ) . This may be because it will be excessively expensive to construct such constructions, when the menace is improbable and unpredictable. SMExperts confirmed that edifices are designed based on possible burden events and believable jeopardies. Aircraft onslaught is non a sufficiently believable jeopardy to be considered in the design of edifices, and therefore edifice codifications do non necessitate that such events be considered for edifices in Singapore. The deduction is that edifices may non defy such utmost impact, particularly in the presence of the resulting fires because these constructions have non been designed for such menaces. SMExperts emphasized that it is more executable to concentrate on other signifiers of menaces such as truck and handheld bombs, which are physically transported by human existences. Resources should be directed towards air power and other security steps instead than to beef uping edifices against aircraft impact. Fire in edifices is a believable jeopardy which has been addressed in most edifice design. Harmonizing to the SMExperts, if edifices are improbable to see any menace posed by jet fuel, edifices need non be designed to defy hydrocarbon fires. How to plan safer tall edifices A ranking of the feasibleness of the proposed methods, based on the per centum of respondents who agreed with the method, is shown in Table I ( column 7 ) . For the intent of this survey, a proposed method is considered executable to do tall edifices safer when more than 50 per centum of the respondents agreed with it. Twelve methods are found to be executable and are discussed in the undermentioned subdivisions. Structural design Four possible methods to better the safety of tall edifices through structural design were proposed. One of these was found to be acceptable by more than 50 per centum of the respondents ( see Table I ) . The bulk of the respondents agreed with hardening of stairwells ( point 1.3 ) against blast impact. Strong stairwells are of import because flight stairwaies are the chief agencies by which edifice residents evacuate from edifices in an exigency. Existing codifications normally permit the usage of dryboards and masonry for stairwell enclosures, and these are susceptible and more prone to damage. This will do flight stairwaies to be blocked by fallen stuffs from stairwell walls. Reinforced concrete walls will hold higher opportunities of lasting a blast onslaught. It is recommended that codifications be changed to indurate stairwells. The bulk of the respondents did non hold with supplying prostration floors ( point 1.1 ) , which would be provided between, say every 10 floors, to transport the weight of the dust of the floors that prostration above it, and act as a arrest to progressive prostration ( Lane and Clark, 2001 ) . Some respondents felt that prostration floors impose significant structural demands ; for illustration, closely separated columns of larger sizes may be necessary. The bulk of the respondents did non hold with the proviso of a sacrificial facade ( item 1.2 ) . In this system, there is an exterior wall, a perpendicular air pocket behind it and another structural wall indoors. The exterior wall is designed to absorb blast impact and contain harm, and act as a first line of defense mechanism for the edifice ‘s structural unity ( Nadel, 2002 ) . Some respondents felt that this system may give architectural the look of edifices and blockade the positions of the residents. Furthermore, the facade may necessitate to be spaced far apart from the internal wall for effectivity, and this would take up valuable infinite. Respondents besides did non hold that heavy tonss should non be allowed on roofs ( point 1.4 ) . In the WTC towers, heavy tonss were placed on the roofs to stabilise the edifices ‘ wind-induced sway, but these could be a conducive factor to the prostration ( Building, 2001b ) . Some respondents felt that it is the norm to use rooftop infinite to house works and equipment such as lift motor suites and H2O armored combat vehicles, and interior decorators may confront the job of re-siting edifice services if rooftop infinite is non utilised. Furthermore, for practical grounds, some M A ; E systems rely on gravitative force per unit area to work. Fire technology Four possible methods to better the safety of tall edifices through fire technology were proposed. Three of these were found to be acceptable by more than 50 per centum of the respondents ( see Table I ) . Astaneh-Asl ‘s ( 2002 ) probe of the WTC prostration revealed that the firefighting systems were centralized at the stairway nucleus. This bunching together of the services meant that when that location was hit, the whole firefighting system may hold failed. He hence recommended that sprinkler pipes, moisture and dry risers should be decentralized, and placed at different locations of the edifice. Respondents agreed with the method ( item 2.3 ) , but some cautioned that this would take to increase in cost. A sum of 61 per centum of the respondents agreed that supplying burden detectors ( point 2.4 ) is executable, and may increase the safety of tall edifices. Load detectors can be used to understand and supervise edifice behaviour. Prompt action could be taken and exigency forces alerted one time information is fed to the monitoring system. Furthermore, burden detectors, if decently developed, are utile tools in supplying warning signals to determine whether edifices are safe for entry during an exigency event. This would supply better protection to firemans and exigency forces, as they are able to measure the hazard of partial or entire prostration of a edifice under menace. A sum of 53 per centum of the respondents agreed that supplying a separate firemans ‘ stairway is executable ( item 2.1 ) . In the WTC incident, firemans running up the stairwells rushed headfirst into office workers who were hotfooting down on the same steps ( Post et al. , 2001 ) . Respondents who objected to a separate firemans ‘ stairway argued that the current fire codification already has a dedicated lift for usage by firemans. The infinite required for a firemans ‘ stairway might be indefensible as this reduces salable infinite and may imply excess building and care costs. One respondent questioned how edifice residents could be prevented from utilizing this stairway during an exigency. Respondents did non hold to planing redundancy in fire systems ( item 2.2 ) . This may be because excess standpipes for firefighting, separate fire pump suites, excess sprinkler systems, excess fire dismay systems, and double fire bid Centres will necessarily take to be addition. Some respondents weighed the pertinence of this method against cost effectivity, long-run care, cost and clip of installing and other options. Meanss of flight Nine possible methods to better the safety of tall edifices through agencies of flight were proposed. Six of these were accepted by more than 50 per centum of the respondents ( see Table I ) . A sum of 63 per centum of the respondents agreed that wider stairwaies might be necessary for tall edifices ( item 3.3 ) because these could suit more people to rush up emptying. Unfortunately, wider stairwaies would increase cost and cut down gross due to reduced salable floor infinite. There is besides debate sing cut downing the standard breadths of stairwaies because there is rarely a demand to evacuate the whole edifice at one clip, as normally merely occupants on stray floors in the affected country demand to be evacuated ( Post and Angelo, 2001 ) . Supplying issue marks with illuming at floor degree ( item 3.4 ) received the most support from the respondents. Well-marked and lit marks are cardinal constructing design characteristics that facilitated the emptying of many edifice residents at the WTC Towers ( Federal Emergency Management Agency/American Society of Civil Engineers, 2002 ) . Such a safety characteristic would hold the extra advantage of assisting residents in following flight paths if they have to creep on the floor. However, certain issues need to be addressed, such as the care of issue marks near floor degree, which are capable to more wear and tear and hooliganism. The construct of fire safety and deliverance floors is appealing to the respondents ( point 3.5 ) . Fireproof refuge countries can harbor people in the center of an emptying and service as deliverance points ( Post, 2001a ) . These countries should non incorporate furniture, and are designed to be wholly fireproof. Some respondents commented that proprietors may non hold to supply these countries as they can non bring forth gross but alternatively incur care costs. A sum of 58 per centum of the respondents agreed to the proviso of extra stairwaies in tall edifices ( item 3.6 ) . Similarly, some respondents are concerned about infinite and cost. Some suggested that the figure of stairwaies be increased merely at lower floors to provide to the big Numberss of falling residents from upper floors. This could forestall congestion and easiness emptying, peculiarly in exigency instances affecting mass emptying of residents. This suggestion is a good via media between cost and safety. Fifty-six per centum of the respondents perceived sky Bridgess to be executable in edifices ( item 3.8 ) . Besides being an alternate flight path, sky Bridgess could function as normal entree between edifices. Twenty-six per centum of the respondents did non favor sky Bridgess in position of the possibility that the construction of the sky Bridgess might be affected when a edifice was under menace. Besides, sky Bridgess could be a agency to let the spread of fire to the other edifice. A sky span that is overloaded with escapees may fall in, doing more human deaths. Some respondents, peculiarly designers, were concerned about the aesthetics of edifices. Seventy per centum of the respondents agreed that rooftop helipads could increase the safety of tall edifices ( item 3.9 ) because residents trapped in the upper floors of tall edifices can be rescued. However, there is a bound to the figure of residents that can be rescued utilizing choppers. This construct may besides be impractical because the human inclination is to fall instead than go up to upper floors during exigency events. Furthermore, deliverance by choppers requires particular deliverance squads and accomplishments, which might non be readily available. The bulk of the respondents did non hold that fireproof lifts ( point 3.1 ) would heighten the safety of tall edifices. The chief concerns are the supply of electricity to power lifts, the demand to protect against power failure during fire, and agencies of flight if lifts fail. Some respondents pointed out that big crowds waiting at lift anterooms may do pandemonium during emptying. However, some respondents suggested that lifts are utile to evacuate the disableds, the aged and kids. Mr Jeremy Hodge, of Building Research Establishment Ltd, believed that another reply to get awaying to safety is the installing of flight chutes, which would non take up much room but would enable people to skid to the bottom really rapidly ( Lane, 2001a ) . In this survey, half the respondents felt that flight chutes were executable ( item 3.2 ) . Respondents suggested that the stuff used for the flight chutes must be fire-retardant and lasting, particularly if the system is deployed out in the unfastened. Escape chutes functioning single floors might be more efficient, and the issue points of the chutes must be decently controlled. Of the respondents that did non hold to this method, some felt that this flight means is non suited for the aged and kids. Skiding down from great highs entails high kinetic energy, and people may be injured when residents collide into one another during the sliding procedure. The bulk of the respondents besides did non hold with inward emptying ( item 3.7 ) . The chief ground for the expostulation is that residents might be trapped in the edifice. Furthermore, the human inclination would be to fly an onslaught site and people would be unwilling to wait inside a damaged edifice to be saved ( Post, 2001a ) . This expostulation by Singapore respondents is surprising because Singapore already has in topographic point an inward emptying system, in the signifier of bomb shelters being built in each high-rise flat. Behaviour of stuffs under utmost temperature Three possible methods to better the safety of tall edifices through improved stuffs engineering were proposed. None of them were considered executable by the bulk of the respondents ( see Table I ) . Blast-resistant glazing may cut down casualties originating from winging glass in the event of a blast ( Madine et al. , 2001 ) but less than 50 per centum of the respondents agreed with utilizing it to better the safety of tall edifices ( item 4.1 ) . Some respondents questioned the extent of protection, particularly in the event of an aircraft or bomb onslaught. One school of idea is to beef up window systems by cramping their corners, so that glass is more hard to interrupt ( Madine et al. , 2001 ) . However, the respondents in the present survey did non hold with this ( item 4.2 ) . One respondent warned of the possibility of over design with immense connexion inside informations, when the beef uping consequence may be limited. Madine et Al. ( 2001 ) suggested adhering the glass into window frames for greater strength as the blast burden could be transferred to the construction of the edifice. Again, respondents were non agreeable to this ( item 4.3 ) . Some respondents considered blast-resistant glazing more effectual than adhering the glazing into window frames to control blast impact, as the strength of glass panel itself is more important. There might be troubles in building and assembly of such Windowss, in position of factors such as thermic consequence and enlargement articulations. Codes and ordinances Three possible methods to better the safety of tall edifices through amendments of codifications and ordinances were proposed. Two of these were accepted by more than 50 per centum of the respondents ( see Table I ) . Respondents did non hold to the infliction of a height bound on edifices ( item 5.2 ) . This is consistent with old surveies ( Angelo, 2001 ; Forgey, 2001 ; Galloway, 2001 ) . In land-scarce metropoliss, holding rigorous height bounds does non let the optimum usage of land. A height bound imposed on a edifice may forestall developers from maximising returns on investing. The bulk of the respondents agreed that codifications may necessitate to be revised to supply for longer flight clip ( item 5.1 ) . Some respondents said that when stipulating the flight clip several factors have to be considered, such as flight waies and obstructors, occupant features ( aged, kid, handicapped, etc. ) and the location of the last individual to get away from the edifice, whether this individual is on the highest floor or at the remotest location in the edifice. It was suggested that the flight clip, if implemented, should bind in with the fire structural demands of edifices. Seventy-nine per centum of the respondents agreed that a really tall edifice should hold a separate design codification ( item 5.3 ) . The chief ground is its possible as a mark for terrorists and a long emptying clip ( Post et al. , 2001 ) . Having a separate design codification may be a good via media between safety and cost, since the codification allows a high appraisal attack to constructing design. The SMExpert from the FSSB said that his organisation has programs to revise the Fire Code every five old ages. Code demands will be refined and amended to take likely terrorist menaces into consideration. Any lacks in edifice demands that may allow terrorist Acts of the Apostless will be identified, and betterments made. The FSSB will besides implement a codification of behavior for firemans in measuring the fortunes for them to come in a edifice under menace. In the USA, security-related codifications and criterions are besides being reviewed ( Ichniowski, 2001 ; Lane, 2001b ; Maas, 2001 ; Pearson, 2001b ) . Decision In the wake of 9/11, the issue of safety in tall edifices was brought into greater focal point. In measuring the safety of tall edifices originating from the 9/11 incident, this survey sought the positions of AEs and edifice governments in the building industry in Singapore. While the respondents in this survey in general perceived tall edifices in Singapore to be safe, there may be sample prejudice because the respondents were involved in the design of edifices and many are public functionaries. Notwithstanding this, with rigorous authorities ordinances, all edifice designs reference functionality, lastingness and fit-for-purpose affairs. The governments interviewed attributed the good safety records of edifices to strict conformity with edifice codifications and an efficient firefighting squad. Notwithstanding this, AEs felt that it is of import to farther better edifice safety ( V7 ) . This survey besides found that edifices in Singapore can defy normal edifice accidents, but are likely to fall in upon aircraft onslaught. This paper found that AEs ( see Table III ) : have the necessary expertness to better edifice safety ( V9 ) ; are doing an attempt to turn to heightened safety concerns ( V10 ) ; will give full support to enterprises to turn to heightened safety concerns ( V11 ) ; agree to carry on hazard appraisal during the design stage ( V13 ) ; and will welcome a performance-based design codification ( V14 ) . These findings indicate that the attack to constructing design may hold to alter after 9/11. While bing designs are equal, respondents besides felt that extra safety steps are necessary ( V12 ) . However, there is no demand to overreact to the point of guaranting that all edifices can defy hydrocarbon fires ( V15 ) and aircraft onslaughts ( V16 ) . The paper contributes to knowledge by bring outing that the four most effectual methods to better the safety of tall edifices are supplying: issue marks with illuming at floor degrees ; a separate design codification for super tall edifices ; fire safety and deliverance floors ; and decentalisation of fire systems. Eight other steps were besides found to be executable ( see Table I ) . A height bound on edifices and limitation of burdens on roof are the most unwanted steps. Future surveies on bettering the design of tall edifices may do usage of these findings. It is recommended that farther surveies into the strength decrease of stuffs subjected to intense fires should be carried out. This is because constructions may be able to defy the impact of aircraft onslaught, but may finally neglect after a decrease in their stuff belongingss with lifting temperature. While many of the methods proposed may be able to better the safety of edifices, increased cost is a critical concern ( Leftly and Lane, 2001 ) . Before the alterations materialize in the codifications, it is necessary to find whether the building industry is able to absorb the new steps and whether AEC professionals and clients are convinced of the demand to beef up edifices further. Safety steps proposed must be practical without doing edifice proprietors bear unneeded costs. Besides seeking to do edifices stronger by supplying redundancy or more back-up beds, it is recommended that the relevant parties explore and detect new agencies to contend fire. Finally, it is of import to look at edifice safety as a whole system alternatively of supplying bit-by-bit back-up beds or increasing the border of safety. Ultimately, each edifice may hold a alone solution depending on factors such as cost, infinite, proficient, economical and political issues. A balance between realistic costs and highly improbable events should be maintained. Table IPossible methods to better the safety of tall edifices Table IIProfile of respondents Table IIIResults of study and statistical trials How to cite Improving The Design Of Buildings After 9 11 Environmental Sciences Essay, Essay examples

The Cedars-Case Study free essay sample

It has a reputation for providing deluxe accommodations and superior service The majority of the employees lived close by and been hired after WWII The employees felt well taken care of and loyalty to the organization was high Turnover has been historically low especially compared to industry averages In the last several years many long-time employees have begun to retire The labor pool in town has diminished with people moving to larger cities for work Retired employees have been replaced by younger people These younger employees live in surrounding areas and must travel several miles The quality of service at The Cedars has deteriorated The building itself and maintenance have still been well cared for The resort is starting to lose long-time customers The reputation is felt to be threatened The GM has met with his executive staff They believe the control systems are breaking down and supervisory personnel need to show more authority to low-level employees The senior employees feel the younger ones are lazy and irresponsible The newer employees believe they have good ideas and no one listens to them The GM was hired 9 months ago to replace the retired manager The owners hoped the new manager would turn the situation around They have seen little evidence of good improvements The owners plan to meet with the GM and his staff to get the resort back in good standing Problem Statement: The resort is experiencing a lack of knowledge for the resort. We will write a custom essay sample on The Cedars-Case Study or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Solution Statement: The resort should establish a detailed description of the resort Pros: The younger employees will have a better understanding of the resort and their job The more seasoned employees will respect the younger employees more The General manager will have a new viewpoint on his job The resort will regain its reputation Cons: The younger employees may not be too willing to learn The older employees may be stubborn and feel they should already know everything The general manager will use a lot of his time on learning himself The employees as a whole may have trouble working together at first Solution: Based on what I have learned about the resort and the current situation, I think it is very important to establish some background history learning’s for the younger employees. If the employees know some history about the resort they will appreciate it better as well as the older employees. The General Manager, since he is rather new, should also take the time to learn about the resort and what made it so valuable a few years back and why everyone loved it so much. If the boss is knowledgeable, he can teach his employees how to do things differently and everyone can grow as a whole. The more seasoned employees will see that the younger employees are trying to better themselves at work and as people and gain more respect towards the younger employees. If everyone works together and knows their boundaries, there will be less run-ins and less guest dissatisfaction. As a whole, the resorts reputation will be restored and harmony will be in place.

Generic Strategic Approach-Free-Sample for Students-Myassignment

Question: Justify the generic strategic approach you have chosen. In this section do not merely repeat the advantages from the previous section. Explain why your chosen strategy is appropriate (e.g. better than others) in terms of its suitability, feasibility, and acceptability. Answer: Strategy selection Due to the environmental changes, organizations need to change their business strategies to adapt the change in the environment to stay competitive in the market. Strategic choice and evaluation is important for the companies to operate the business successfully in the market. This report focuses on a generic strategy which is effective for the sustainable business operations. For the discussion, one of the generic strategies, differentiation strategy is selected (Crossan, 2011). Differentiation strategy Differentiating goods and services are helpful in satisfying the needs of the customers by the sustainable competitive advantage. Differentiation strategy is helpful for the companies to desensitize the prices and focus on the values for the customers. The differentiation strategy requires segmenting the market based on needs of the target customers. Differentiation strategy is focused on the development of the products and services that provides unique attributes which are valued by the customers. By the differentiation strategy, customers always seek for the different product from the competitors. Companies are trying to provide uniqueness to the customers while providing products and services to them. The differentiation strategy includes achieving competitive advantage by pinpointing the characteristics of product or service that is perceived valuable by the customers. Along with this, differentiation strategy is helpful in positioning the company to meet the demands of the customers to deal with the competition (Kaplan Norton, 2006). Differentiation provides strength the company against competitors and competitive rivalry due to brand loyalty by the customers. Further, it increases margins which avoid low-cost position. Differentiation can also provide entry barriers for the new entrants in the market so that customer loyal ty and product or services uniqueness can be enhanced. The companies have differentiated themselves to get customer loyalty for the better position in the market. The selected strategy is better than others in terms of suitability, feasibility and acceptability (Gruca Rego, 2009). Suitability The differentiation strategy is suitable and compatible for the business operations and the expected external environment. The differentiation strategy is perceived to be suitable within the political, social, legal and environmental aspects of the company in the market. Along with this, customers and demand in the market also play an important role in the suitability analysis of the strategy. In case of suitability of strategy, differentiation strategy is helpful for the company to identify the opportunities in the market and deal with the threats in the environment (Graham, 2008). Differentiation strategy is helpful in capitalizing the strength and core competences of the company. It is also congruent with the existing culture and alignment with broader political, environment and social context of the company. In terms of suitability factor, differentiation strategy is suitable for the company in managing external environment. Feasibility Feasibility focuses on the resources to pursue the strategic choice. Feasibility analysis includes the internal capabilities of the company. Differentiation strategies for the companies are feasible to implement in the business operations. In the market, differentiation strategies are helpful to focus the customers, and material focus on the suppliers. This enhances the relationship with the suppliers and customers by identifying their needs and requirements. Evaluating strategic options in terms of feasibility means to verify the capability of the company to deliver the strategy (Payne Holt, 2008). This ability can be assessed based on the core competencies and resources of the company. For instance, Samsung has invested huge amount of money and resources to build the image, innovative technology, and brand value and competition position in all over the world. Differentiation strategy is feasible for the company as the company is able to improve its abilities of reducing manufactur ing costs and providing cheaper products with the desired quality (Braun Latham, 2014). Acceptability Acceptability mainly focuses on the performance results of the selected strategy in the business. Acceptability of differentiation strategy can be analyzed based on the risk and return of the company. Risks are evident of the business. No business can be operated without the element of risk. So, it is very important to take into account of risk factors while planning and implementing the differentiation strategy in the business. While focusing on the product development and market development options, various internal and external risk factors should be taken into account. For instance, in the company Apple, differentiation is one of the best strategies to be implemented. Based on the situational analyses it is observed that this strategy is the finest strategy for Apple to expand the business internationally (Ferrell Hartline, 2008). Apple can adopt market development strategy by focusing on the strategic alliances to move forward in the market. The method of strategic alliances bu t the method includes risks for the company in terms of financial loss. So, by differentiation strategy, company can enter in the unexplored market without fear of huge loss. On the other hand, company needs to be careful in the differentiation strategy. There is no doubt that Apple is fully capable in providing differentiated and unique product due to RD capabilities and technological advancements but reducing the cost of operations and selecting new vendors for some products can be challenging. These may need extensive research and lots of time in order to make the products unique in the market (Biggadike, E2010). Based on the above analysis, it is observed that the selection if the strategic choice is not easy for the companies. In order to select right strategy for the business, companies need to analyze external and internal environments of the market to get knowledge about the needs and requirements of the customers. The factors suitability, feasibility and acceptability provide logical and comprehensive approach for the selected strategy. Differentiation strategy is helpful for the company for continuous involvement in the market for the growth and development. It can be said that differentiation strategy can generate effective results in terms of increasing market share, competitive advantage, increasing customer base and higher projects in the market. References Biggadike, E. R. (2010). The contributions of marketing to strategic management: Academy of Management Review. 6. 621-632 Braun, M. Latham, S. (2014). Mastering Strategy. Santa Barbara: ABC-CLIO. Crossan, M. M., (2011). Strategic Analysis and Action. (8th). Pearson Education Canada. Ferrell, O. C., Hartline, M. D. (2008). Marketing Strategy. (4th). Mason: Thomson Corporation. 117 Graham, H., (2008). Marketing Strategy and Competitive Positioning. (4th). Pearson Education India Gruca, T. S. Rego, L. L. (2009). Customer Satisfaction, Cash Flow and Shareholder Value: Journal of Marketing. 69. 11530 Kaplan, R., Norton, D. (2006). How to implement a new strategy without disrupting your organization: Harvard Business Review. 100-109 Payne, A., Holt, S., (2008). Diagnosing Customer Value: Integrating the Value Process and Relationship Marketing: British Journal of Management. 12 (2). pp 159 - 182.

How to Write a Sample Essay for a Medical Job

How to Write a Sample Essay for a Medical JobYou may wonder why a master's degree in nursing is required to apply for a medical career management job. This can be one of the reasons why the most sought after positions are in nursing fields. A medical job can lead to an impressive financial compensation as well as experience that will surely offer an added advantage to one's professional aspirations.Medical recruitment is quite competitive and getting the desired position can be very difficult. One of the ways to get a preferred job is to write a sample essay about the position one wants. All you need to do is to write the resume and then the sample essay can be sent to the employer. A good resume should stand out from all the others and not be a mere copy paste job.It will be helpful if you have read up on writing a good professional essay on your chosen job. It can help you prepare and practice your essay writing skills. You can also have the chance to read up on these topics before you start your essay writing task. It is important that you utilize this experience so that you can complete your assignment to the fullest.The expectations of the people in the medical science field are pretty high. To put yourself into the shoes of these people, you must be prepared to answer the questions they will ask you. In order to cover the benefits and challenges involved in a position, you will need to make yourself likable and appeal to their minds with your eloquence.Having a good sample essay about your position is essential for you to have a chance to stand out among the other applicants. There are so many organizations that give preference to individuals who write nice samples on their application forms. You can use a sample essay to supplement your medical resume. It will help you show your experiences and knowledge on specific job areas.The high demands placed on people in the medical profession make it necessary to cover all the bases. All of them will expect that you can make your mark in your line of work. On top of this, you will be required to show that you can deal with emergencies that arise during a working day. You will also need to be able to work under pressure situations where deadlines are not there. These situations will compel you to write well-designed essays.You may think that writing a sample essay will be easy, but you would be wrong. It will take a little time and effort for you to get it right, but when you have your objective in mind, the goal will be achieved.

Street Racing Essay Example Essay Example

Street Racing Essay Example Paper Street Racing Essay Introduction Street racing is a type of automotive racing that takes place on public roads. According to Wikipedia (2006) â€Å"the street racers conduct their activities either during normal traffic or during empty hours of traffic. This is often happening within the industrial areas of cities. This form of racing is illegal such that driving is prohibited by many traffic regulations.†The law prohibits these races (McClurgs, 2001), chase and pursue the violators. â€Å"But because of the frequency of the illegal street racing, most of the time, the racers either are not caught or they get away (Wikipedia, 2006).† â€Å"Speeds in an illegal street race can reach over 200 miles per hour. Car crashes can and do occur (Lopez, 2001).†The most common form of street racing in the US is a drag race of modified stock cars. According to Wikipedia (2006), â€Å"this is usually held late at night on straight public roads with very low traffic that are often illegally closed by the race organizers.†Wikipedia (2006) further explained that â€Å"professional drag racers who race on sanctioned drag strips often object to the use of the term drag race to describe an event of this type. The motivations behind illegal street races are many.† â€Å"For instance, lack of a nearby drag strip, the temptation of illegality street racing which could be interrupted by a police squad any time, or just the similarity to a day to day situations at a traffic light are some of the motivations (McClurgs, 2001).†Street racing is also a growing business. These street racers are consumers of a billion dollar aftermarket tuning industry. They are also the big market in the automotive industry. Street races can also occur on expressways and highways, like in Japan. The most notorious group to be associated with it was the MidNight Club who gave street racing a worldwide attention with its 198 mph (300 km/h) antics. The group was known for its high standards and organi zation. But in 1999, they were disbanded following a fatal accident involving a competing group of motorcyclists. Presently, with heavier punishments, patrolling police cars and speed cameras, expressway racing in Japan is not as common as it was during the 80’s and 90’s. However, street racing still occurs in Japan on a regular basis (McClurgs, 2001).The blackracers, is a legal street races that occurs in some places This is not the same as road racing. It is strictly an amateur sport with road legal vehicles. Usually the races are done on a closed road and run on time and not against another vehicle (Wikipedia, 2006). The most famous blackracer is the annual Silver State Classic. In Japan, racers slide around the corners of remote winding mountain passes (Wikipedia, 2006). This sports is called Touge. Touge is the origin of drifting (Lopez, 2001).Street races occur all over the United States. It is almost inevitable that street races will occur anywhere there are pub lic roads. Unsanctioned racing with unknown participants on an unknown course for an unknown duration is the most common type of road racing sport. A contest may last seconds or many hours. The informal events have the common characteristic that the car in front at the finish wins, the leading car chooses the course, and the finish is when the stalking car quits.Some states have more active racing scenes than others. For instance, there is a strong racing culture in Southern California, which centers quite heavily around imports, as well as such American muscle cars as the Ford Mustang, Dodge Charger, and Chevrolet Camaro. There are also very active street racing cultures in New York, Florida, New Jersey, Nevada and Texas. In some cases, the popularity has led to tough anti-street racing laws which give more strict punishments than normal traffic citations and also often dedicated anti-racing task forces.In the year 2005, a law in Tennessee that was passed prohibited cars to have Ni trous Oxide hooked up or even present inside a car, among other performance enhancers. Penalties include impoundment, taking of driver’s license for a period of time or permanently, This came about after a fatal crash in Johnson City, Tennessee (Yates, 2004).The programs like RaceLegal.com, DragNet and others are borne because there is a problem. These programs are also created by people that care about not only the innocent victims who street racers run into, and kill, maim, or burn to death. Most of these programs are run by, and created by the law enforcement.Law enforcers are not out to harass street racers. It may be probable that a number of law enforcement officers would rather let the street racers do their own thing if these street racers would simply do it safely, and not endanger the general public.A number of these street racers have little or no regard for life. Some even have no driving experience. These racers see all the hype of street racing on television but some of them do not have a clue that, they, do not even come close, to having the experience and expertise it takes to become a ‘true’ racer. The ‘true’ racer uses a legal track not the streets. I am in favor of a mandatory five years sentence for the street racers violators along with the same amount of time with a suspended license. The second offence should be a total life time ban of their driving privileges. Driving is a privilege, not a right, so as citizens we have the right to expect a safe commute to and from our destinations without having these street racers interrupting it or killing people (Smith, 1996).The law breakers are not being slap on the wrists and put them in community service but they are given a five year sentence for speeding in town. I do not think that that is harsh. It is true that there are more deaths by Drunk Driving than Street Racing. But at the rate this going it won’t be long before Street Racing catches up. Some p eople think that only the people Street Racing get hurt or killed. It is not true. There have been many innocent lives lost to Street Racing.Street racing has been around since the first car rolled off the assembly line. Nowadays, the cars are faster and the drivers are younger. Places like Qualcomm and Carlsbad are helping to decrease street racing, but since they are not open at later hours, they can’t do it all. Street racing will never cease. It is American as apple pie. By opening more places to race and/or keeping current tracks open later, the street racing will decrease more. Instead of persecuting everyone that has a fast looking car, people should try to come up with ways to help (Ryan, 1998).Street racing done on city streets is illegal. You can be hurt or killed or even hurt or kill someone else. These are not merely speculations that some might say could happen. They have happened and continue to happen everyday due to those people who think that it is cool or fu n to race cars on the streets. Nationwide statistics have shown that almost fifty people in every one thousand who are participating in street racing, are killed. That is a lot of young people that would be alive today if not for illegal street racing (Smith, 1996).If you are caught street racing, there are stiff penalties. Your can be arrested and spend as much as three months in jail, and your car be impounded for up to thirty days. You will also be charged with a fine of up to $1,000 while your driver’s license is revoked and your insurance can be cancelled. Onlookers are also fined and their cars impounded as well.Street racing is a big problem. Places to legally race should be a priority. Even if there are only a few places, at least there are choices on the places that the street racing should take place. The driving time is truly worth your life, and the life of anyone who might be hit while racing on a public street.For as long as these young people are merely trying to have fun it will be a good hobby. It will be a good thing if one of these street racers could be the next Jimmie Johnson. It will be a good project if a racetrack will be built for all these young people to go race until their heart’s content. It would keep street racing off the road and the anti-fun crowd would maybe stop their whining. Likewise, it would give the potential future Nascar stars a place to race and have fun.But at this period, the bottom line is that street racing, while it might seem like fun, it is illegal. Stubbornly continuing these illegal street racing may completely change your life in the short time that it takes to start up that car and take off. There are many proofs of these. Just turn on the television, listen to the radio, read newspapers, magazines, books, etc., there are enormous instances that will remind us how dangerous and destructive street racing is. You can even ask those who now speak out about the dangers of street racing from their hospital beds or their prison cells (Yates, 2004).However, it is interesting to note that street racers do have options. They can race legally on the race tracks that provide them with a certain amount of safety and peace of mind. Think about these professional racers that are seen on television. These are the people that most of those involved in illegal street racing are trying to mimic. Yet, they have never seen these folks racing on a city street. Their racing takes place on a track and so should the others.Racing’s prevailing attitude in this country toward safety begins with the waiver. Everyone signs a waiver before they get a racing license or go through the back gate at any track in the United States of America. It is possible that no one ever reads it. However, they all know what the waiver says – that racing is dangerous. One can meet death doing street racing. When someone gets hurt, racers shuffle their feet, shrug their shoulders, and mentally review the waiver they have never read.Therefore, it is really a must that when you enter any activity, precaution should be taken into consideration. Study the waiver. Study the advantages and the disadvantages of any endeavor that you will enter into. Also, put in place all the necessary safety gadgets and documents.But better than all these, when an activity is considered illegal, better refrain from indulging in it. This is very important to preserve the life of the others who might be accidentally hurt because of street racing, but also, in preserving the racers’ own life. Street Racing Essay Thank you for reading this Sample!

Copperhead Snake Facts (Agkistrodon contortrix)

Copperhead Snake Facts (Agkistrodon contortrix) The copperhead snake (Agkistrodon contortrix) gets its common name from its coppery reddish-brown head. Copperheads are pit vipers, related to rattlesnakes and moccasins. Snakes in this group are venomous and have a deep pit on either side of the head that detects infrared radiation or heat. Fast Facts: Copperhead Scientific Name: Agkistrodon contortrixCommon Names: Copperhead, highland moccasin, pilot snake, white oak snake, chunk headBasic Animal Group: ReptileSize: 20-37 inchesWeight: 4-12 ouncesLifespan: 18 yearsDiet: CarnivoreHabitat: Eastern North AmericaPopulation: Over 100,000Conservation Status: Least Concern Description Copperheads may be distinguished from other pit vipers by their color, pattern, and body shape. A copperhead is tan to pink with 10 to 18 darker hourglass- or dumbbell-shaped crossbands on its back. Its head is solid copper-brown. The snake has a broad head, distinct neck, stout body, and thinner tail. A copperhead has tan to reddish brown eyes and vertical pupils. The average adult snake is between 2 and 3 feet in length and weighs from 4 to 12 ounces. Females have longer bodies than males, but males have longer tails. Habitat and Distribution Copperheads live in the United States, from southern New England to northern Florida and across to western Texas. They extend into Chihuahua and Coahuila in Mexico. The snake occupies a variety of habitats, including forests, swamps, rocky woodlands, and along rivers and streams. Copperhead snake range. Craig Pemberton Diet and Behavior Copperheads are ambush predators that camouflage themselves against the leaves and soil and wait for prey. They find their targets by heat and scent. About 90% of their diet consists of small rodents. They also eat frogs, birds, smaller snakes, and large insects. Copperheads climb trees to forage on caterpillars and emerging cicadas, but are otherwise terrestrial. Except for mating and hibernating, the snakes are solitary. The snakes hibernate in the winter, often sharing a den with other copperheads, rat snakes, and rattlesnakes. They feed during the day in spring and autumn, but are nocturnal during hot summer months. Reproduction and Offspring Copperheads breed anywhere from spring to late summer (February to October). However, neither males nor females necessarily breed every year. Males wrestle in ritual combat for breeding rights. The winner may then have to battle the female. The female stores sperm and may defer fertilization for several months, usually until after hibernating. She gives birth to 1 to 20 live young, each measuring about 8 inches in length. The young resemble their parents, but they are lighter colored and have yellowish-green tipped tails, which they use to lure lizards and frogs for their first meals. Baby copperheads are born with fangs and venom that is as potent as that of adults. Females sometimes reproduce via parthenogenesis, an asexual mode of reproduction that does not require fertilization. Copperheads reach sexual maturity when they are about 2 feet long, which is around 4 years of age. They live 18 years in the wild, but they may live 25 years in captivity. Juvenile copperhead snakes have yellowish green tail tips. JWJarrett, Getty Images Conservation Status The IUCN classifies the copperhead conservation status as least concern. Over 100,000 adult snakes live in North America, with a stable, slowly declining population size. For the most part, copperheads are not subject to significant threats. Habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation diminish snake numbers about 10% every ten years. In particular, populations are geographically separated in Mexico. Copperheads and Humans Copperheads are responsible for biting more people than any other snake species. While the copperhead prefers to avoid humans, it freezes instead of slithering away. The snake is difficult to spot, so people unknowingly step too close or onto the animal. Like other New World vipers, copperheads vibrate their tail when approached. They also release a cucumber-smelling musk when touched. When threatened, the snake usually delivers a dry (nonvenomous) bite or low-dose warning bite. The snake uses its venom to incapacitate prey prior to ingestion. Since people are not prey, copperheads tend to conserve their venom. However, even the full amount of venom is rarely fatal. Small children, pets, and persons allergic to snake venom are most at risk. Copperhead venom is hemolytic, which means it breaks red blood cells. Bite symptoms include extreme pain, nausea, throbbing, and tingling. While its important to seek immediate medical attention if bitten, usually antivenin is not administered because it poses a greater risk than the copperhead bite. Copperhead venom contains a protein called contortrostatin that may help slow tumor growth and cancer cell migration. Sources Ernst, Carl H.; Barbour, Roger W. Snakes of Eastern North America. Fairfax, Virginia: George Mason University Press, 1989. ISBN 978-0913969243.Finn, Robert. Snake Venom Protein Paralyzes Cancer Cells. Journal of the National Cancer Institute. 93 (4): 261–262, 2001. doi:10.1093/jnci/93.4.261Frost, D.R., Hammerson, G.A., Santos-Barrera, G. Agkistrodon contortrix. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2007: e.T64297A12756101. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2007.RLTS.T64297A12756101.enGloyd, H.K., Conant, R. Snakes of the Agkistrodon Complex: A Monographic Review. Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles, 1990. ISBN 0-916984-20-6.McDiarmid, R.W., Campbell, J.A., Tourà ©, T.  Snake Species of the World: A Taxonomic and Geographic Reference, Volume 1. Washington, District of Columbia: Herpetologists League, 1999. ISBN 1-893777-01-4.