SS Climatology Issue 12

SCIENCESTARS Issue 12 | July/August 2016

CLIMATOLOGY

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CONTENTS CONTENTS

FEATURES

8 1 1 1 1 3 4

AFRICAN CLIMATE

4

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CLIMATE

AND WEATHER

space weather research and Application partnership

6

CLIMATE SYSTEM

9

students' comments

3

STUDENT PROFILES

0

school projects to reduce global warming

REGULARS

6 2 3 3 3 4 4 4

editor's note

6 careers

0

Top 10

1 facts

6

science news

1 quiz

2

puzzle

3

puzzle answers

FOREWORD

the

FOREWORD Bringing science to everyone South Africa has come a long way, but we need both thinkers and doers to go further. We need people who are willing to find new knowledge, to test what we have always thought to be true, and to find a way to deal with the many challenges facing our increasingly globalised world.

We need scientists.

That’s why I’m glad to have the opportunity to welcome you to this special edition of Science Stars Magazine.

This year the University of the Western Cape is fortunate to host the launch of National Science Week. As an institution, we have always stressed the importance of Science and its contribution to our country and economy and to global collaborations and progress.

Across the country, National Science Week aims to engage with more people and teach them about the important role Science plays in engaging with and devising solutions to issues such as climate change, nutrition, and poverty.

This special edition of Science Stars will help you find out more about some of those solutions and includes profiles of a senior researcher, Mary-Jane Bopape from the Centre for HighPerformance Computing (CHPC) and student profiles.

It makes us proud to help students achieve their dreams in Science, and we are looking forward to helping much more. We hope that this issue will not only entertain you but inspire you to incorporate a bit more Science in your own lives.

Tyrone Pretorius Rector and Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Western Cape

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

5

ED’S NOTE

team Science Stars

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Managing Editor • Evans Manyonga editor@sciencestars.co.za

Unearthing climate change It is becoming increasingly clear that South Africa will not be able to adapt to climate change. This is because its ability to deliver on its most fundamental structures such as; food security, energy, transport, education, housing and water and sanitation services will be compromised even more. South Africa is mostly vulnerable to the climate change’s effects merely because of where it is positioned in global climate belts.

People often loosely talk about weather and climate; sometimes go as far as confusing the two.

This is where we come in; in this issue we have created what you may call your “little geography handbook” because we have covered topics ranging from the difference between climate and weather, how climate change has affected South Africa, all the way up to school projects to help reduce global warming.

This issue; Climatology, is dedicated to the totality of the problem of climatic variability and change - its descriptions, causes, implications and interactions among these. It is also dedicated to unearthing why there is climate change, how it affects us and the role of Science in supporting and managing the environment and helping with the of humanity. so go on and learn about top ten ways to save water and how professionals in the climatology field are excelling in their work. We have quite a lot of information to help you understand Earth and science better. We hope you do enjoy our National science Week edition!

Editor • Sihle Qekeleshe Graphic Designers • Cinzia-Joey Swartz

• Stacey Okkers

Project Manager • Renata Williams Contributing writers • Jessica Hendriksz

• Denver Nazima

• Pamela Yoli

• Samantha Buttress

• Ntombizanele Thangayi

Chairman • Madambi Rambuda Ambassador • Prof. Azwindinni Muronga Subscriptions • info@sciencestars.co.za Copyright 2016 Roswika Media. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or any means, electronically or mechanically, without prior permission.

Science Stars is published by Roswika Media.

Sihle Qekeleshe Ediitor 10th Floor, The Pinnacle 2 Burg Street Cape Town, 8000 021 839 2507 info@sciencestars.com www.sciencestars.co.za

6

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ScienceScience for Science sustainable forforsustainable sustainable development development development and improved and andimproved improved quality of quality quality life ofo

Join us asJoin we Joinus explore usasaswewe the explore explore wonders the thewonders ofwonders science ofof through science science interactive through throughinteractive exhibits, interactiveexhib exh science shows, science science coding, shows, shows, hands-on coding, coding,hands-on workshops hands-onworkshops workshops and so much and andso more! somuch muchmore! more!

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National Science National National Week Science Science is anWeek initiative Week is is an ofan initiative the initiative Department of of thethe Department of Department Scienceofand of Science Science Technology, and and Technolog Technol implemented implemented implemented by the South byby African thethe South South Agency African African forAgency Science Agency forand for Science Science Technology and and Technology Advancement.

Technology Advanceme Advancem

COVER STORY

INTRODUCTION TO CLIMATE CHANGE Today's Climate Change

H

ave you ever wondered why people

their research of the Earth’s entire history.

winter season? Cape Town residents experi-

sometimes talk about climate and

Now let us narrow it down to South

ence major cold spells between May and

weather in one sentence? Well, it’s

Africa’s climatic conditions. South Africa’s

September.

because climate is the average weather

climatic conditions mostly range from

usually taken over a 30-year period for a

Mediterranean in the South-Western corner

The South African climate is influenced

particular region and time period.

of South Africa to temperate in the interior

significantly by the currents in the Atlantic

plateau, and subtropical in the northeast. A

and Indian Ocean. In the South-West, the

What you should understand though is that

small area in the North-West has a desert

cold Benguela current; in the Atlantic

climate is not the same as weather, but

climate.

brings cold air and also influences the pres-

rather, it is the average pattern of weather

sure system. The warmer currents in the

for a particular region. On the other hand,

Most parts of the country have warm, sunny

Indian Ocean influence the milder, warmer

weather describes the short-term state of

days and cool nights. Rainfall usually occurs

sea temperatures and the humid air on the

the atmosphere.

during summer. The South-West; around

North-Eastern coastline.

Cape Town, rainfall occurs in winter.

The reason scientists and most people are

But did you know that in winter, there is

In South Africa, August means colder winter

concerned is that the Earth’s global climate

usually snow on the higher mountains

weather conditions, well, in most of the

is changing. It is because the planet is

in South Africa, yes we also get snow in

regions of the country. The word ‘cold’ often

warming up fast, it is actually faster than

South Africa! While temperatures in Durban

means only cold nights or rainy and stormy

at any time scientists know about from

often reach 25 degrees even during the

weather.

8

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

COVER STORY

Our climate system is made up of the

the Greek word, “krios,” which means cold.

sphere:

supports any living organisms. The biosphere is the place where plants and ani-

atmosphere, oceans, land, ice and our bioLithosphere – In simple terms, the litho-

mals, including humans, live.

sphere is the solid part of the Earth consistAtmosphere - The atmosphere is a thin

ing of the crust and outer mantle. The word

Hydrosphere – Is the watery layer of the

layer of mixed gases which make up the

lithosphere is sometimes used interchange-

Earth’s surface, which includes water

air we breathe. This thin layer also helps

ably with the word “geosphere”. However,

vapour. Water moves through the hydro-

the Earth from becoming too hot or too

this is incorrect; the confusion may come

sphere in a cycle. Water collects in clouds

cold. The atmosphere is like the Earth’s

from the fact that the two words’ origins

and then falls to Earth in the form of rain

blanket.

are misinterpreted. “Lithos” is the Greek

or snow.

word meaning of stone; on the other hand

Learn more about carbon dioxide and other

“geo” is the Greek word meaning Earth.

greenhouse gases and how they are chang-

Cryosphere – When we talk about the

ing the Earth’s climate. Also, take time to

cryosphere we talk about the places where water is in its solid form, frozen into ice or

Biosphere - The biosphere is the part of

learn about the long and short-term effects

snow. The term “cryosphere” comes from

Earth’s atmosphere, land, and oceans that

of climate change in South Africa.

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

9

COVER STORY

THE EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE How it affects South Africa By: Jessica Hendriksz

O

ver the last 4,5 billion years, Earth

will cause many deaths and injuries. Higher

has experienced multiple ice ages

temperatures will cause mosquito popula-

as well as much warmer periods.

tions to flourish, spreading diseases such

This long-term global fluctuation in Earth’s

as Malaria and Dengue fever all over South

climate is called climate change. Rising sea

Africa. Flooding will cause drinking water

levels, a decrease in snow and ice cover,

to become contaminated causing outbreaks

changes in rainfall patterns and seasons, as

of diarrhoea, cholera and other waterborne

well as a global increase in temperatures

diseases.

are all evidence that suggests that Earth’s climate is changing once again. These

The beautiful variety of South Africa’s fauna

changes will have detrimental, short and

and flora is admired by many. If tempera-

long term effects on the supply of food and

tures continue to rise, much of our famous

water, human health and the ecosystems in

Fynbos, along with the animals that feed

South Africa.

off it will become extinct, causing invasive alien species to thrive. This will not only be

Varying rainfall patterns and the rising

a tragic loss of an aspect of our countries

of sea levels will increase the salinity of

identity but will result in job loss as well.

our ground and surface water, decreasing

The unfortunate reality is that we are the

the availability of fresh water. The rise in

cause of this. Humans burn large amounts

temperatures will result in a higher rate

of fossil fuels such as oil, coal and natu-

of evaporation, increasing the salt content

ral gases, which burdens the atmosphere

of the soil, making the land unsuitable

with large amounts of carbon dioxide,

for farming. These factors would directly

while agriculture industries release large

impact food and water supply, leaving many

amounts of methane, nitrous oxide and

farmers and farm workers without jobs,

other greenhouse gases that trap heat in

forcing South Africa to become dependent

Earth’s atmosphere.

on food imports which would escalate food

There isn’t much that can be done to

prices dramatically.

reverse the impacts of climate change that have already occurred, but we can help

10

The health of South Africans will not only

prevent further damage by using less water,

be affected by the lack of food and water,

less energy, by learning about Earth and

but heat waves, floods, storms and fires

its climate and by sharing this information

that are associated with climate change

with others.

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

DST

CHPC WINS 2016 STUDENT CLUSTER COMPETITION SA’s quality of education among the best

T

he Centre for High Performance Computing (CHPC) Student Cluster team walked away with the top honour at the international supercomputing competition in Germany this month. The CHPC team beat

11 others from Germany, China, Singapore, Estonia, Spain and the USA to clinch the title.

The CHPC is no newcomer in this competition, having won the top prize

in 2013 and 2014 and taken second prize in 2015, the centre entered yet another team of undergraduate students this year and took the overall prize, beating 11 other student contenders from across the globe.

12

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

DST

The annual International Super-computing Conference

chose two other competitors to bring the team up to the

(ISC) attracts close to 3 000 attendees from nearly 60

six members required for participation in the ISC compe-

countries and host an exhibition with about 150 com-

tition. Nine teams were given a budget and a parts list for

panies and research organisations to showcase the lat-

the cluster they were to build, they then chose a design

est technologies and services. The conference’s annual

and made important decisions on what the main fea-

Student Cluster Competitions are an opportunity to

tures of their machines would be. They were then given

showcase student expertise and features small teams that

some benchmarks and surprise applications to run on

compete to demonstrate the incredible capabilities of

their machines and a panel of international judges made

state-of-the-art high-performance cluster hardware and

assessments of their hard work.

software.

The CHPC’s ISC team travelled to the Dell Research & The team, which included four students from Wits

Development Headquarters and the Texas Advanced

University and two students from Stellenbosch University;

Computing Center in Texas, US, in February 2016 and

represented South Africa at the competition International

represented South Africa in the finals in Germany in June

Supercomputing Conference. The students partici-

2016.

pated in the event through the CHPC’s Student Cluster Competition programme.

“The Faculty of Science is proud of the success of our students. The School of Computer Science and Applied

The CHPC team members from the Wits School of

Mathematics has once again produced a winning team.

Computer Science and Applied Mathematics were Craig

We extend our congratulations to both the school and

Bester, Sabeehah Ismail, Andries Bingani and Avi Bank.

the students,” says Professor Ebrahim Mamoniat, Deputy

Were supported at their school by Wits Professor Turgay

Director: DST-NRF Centre of Excellence in Mathematical

Celik and mentored by Atif Muhammad. The Wits students

and Statistical Sciences.

were joined by Ashley Naúde and Leanne Johnson from Other entrants included:

Stellenbosch University.

• Purdue University & University of Colorado, Boulder The CHPC team advisors and mentors were CHPC engi-

(USA)

neers; David Macleod and Matthew Cawood. Dell South

• Nanyang Technological University (Singapore)

Africa sponsored the teams travel, accommodation and

• National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center

equipment. Mellanox sponsored the team’s high-perfor-

(USA)

mance network interconnect.

• University of Science and Technology of China (China) • University of Hamburg (Germany)

Wits Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Adam Habib

• Tsinghua University (China)

congratulated the students, “We are extremely proud of

• University of Tartu (Estonia / USA)

our talented students who are at the cutting edge of

• Boston Green Team (USA)

technology. This global win demonstrates that the quality

• Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya BarcelonaTech

of our education is up there with the best in the world.

(Spain)

We should also thank our partners – the Department of

• Huazhong University of Science & Technology (China)

Science and Technology and the CSIR, as well as industry

• Shanghai Jiao Tong University (China)

partners such as Dell and Intel for their contribution to the project. These kinds of innovative public-private part-

The South African team is the only team that enters a

nerships will help us move South Africa forward.”

brand new team each year. This is done to give as many

The four Wits students, as the then Wits, the team won

students as possible exposure to the international HPC

the South African Centre for High Performance Computing

community. The international competition is a culmina-

Student Cluster Competition in December 2015. As the

tion of two rounds of national competition processes that

winners of the CHPC Student Cluster Competition, their

CHPC starts every April with a call to students in all uni-

team formed the base of the CHPC’s ISC team. The judges

versities in the country.

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

13

CLIMATE & WEATHER

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WEATHER AND CLIMATE

T

Understanding the difference By : Denver Nazima

he National Aeronautics and Space

wind, temperature, humidity, atmospheric

hundreds up to thousands of years to

Administration, known as NASA,

pressure, cloudiness, sunshine, rainfall and

change.

defines the difference between cli-

snow, it can change in a number of minutes,

mate and weather, as “a measure of time,

hours and/or seasons, which makes it really

Understanding the difference between cli-

weather and conditions of the atmosphere

unpredictable at times. The seasons also

mate and weather in a much simpler way

are over a short period of time. Also, cli-

play a significant role in the reproduction

of thinking is weather is what you receive

mate is how the atmosphere behaves over

of the weather, however, climate is the aver- on an everyday basis, and climate is what

relatively long periods of time”.

age of weather over time and space.

is expected every day, for example, the weather man reads the weather forecast

Many people mistake the climate and the

The weather reproduces a condition that

and predicts that it may be 30 degrees on

weather as the same thing, but in actual

is short-term, whereas, climate is the daily

Friday, that is weather.

fact, they are very much different. Climate

weather that takes place for a longer period

and weather are nothing new to us, we

of time.

hear and talk about it on an everyday basis.

Why should one study climate? The reason for studying climate and a changing climate

Climate is the average weather in a place

is important because it will affect people

The weather includes all the physical

that is usually taken over a 30-year period,

around the world. That way you won’t be

attributes that we experience, such as

for a particular region. Cliamte may take

confused when people talk about the two.

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Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

SANSA

MULTINATIONAL SPACE WEATHER RESEARCH AND APPLICATIONS PARTNERSHIP A multinational space weather project

S

ANSA recently hosted representa-

study will demonstrate how important it is

ing these risks, along with those caused

tives from the Met Office, Mullard

to consider the impacts of space weather,”

by natural hazards, into risk management

Space Science Laboratory, RAL Space,

said Catherine Burnett, Space Weather

programmes.

and Imperial College London in the UK.

Programme Manager, Met Office.

The visitors met with SANSA research-

The partnership consists of eight members

ers to discuss a multinational space

While space weather has influenced the

from three countries (SA, UK and USA) and

weather project as part of the UK Space

Earth throughout its history, the impacts on

includes the Met Office (project leader),

Agency’s International Partnership Space

climate and modern technological infra-

Airbus DS UK, Imperial College London,

Programme (IPSP).

structures are still poorly understood. Their

University College London’s Mullard Space

significant and increasing risk to human

Science Laboratory (UCL-MSSL) and Science

The two-pronged focus of the ‘Space

activity has only relatively recently been

& Technology Facilities Council’s (STFC)

Weather: the Economic Case’ project is to

recognised due to the rapid and widespread RAL Space, as well as the US-based NOAA

determine the socio-economic impact of

growth of space weather-sensitive tech-

Space Weather Prediction Centre (SWPC)

the consequences of space weather on the

nological systems operating in space, on

and SANSA. The unique combination of

partner countries and exchange knowledge aircraft and on the ground.

established skills in key scientific areas and

to enhance space weather applications

space hardware make the UK the natural

under adverse conditions. The project will

Critical national and international infra-

leader while working with the US Space

also build capacity in developing countries

structures, such as power grids, transport,

Weather Prediction Centre and SANSA’s

to contribute to the international space

communications and financial services spe-

Space Weather Regional Warning Centre for

weather ‘problem’ while simultaneously

cifically, are at risk of the adverse impact

Africa will enhance the project’s outcomes.

benefitting from the programmes and

of space weather. Governments in several

“SANSA will contribute knowledge on the

experience of space-faring nations. “This

countries, including the UK, are now factor-

impacts of space weather on crucial infrastructures such as power grids and the country’s diverse range of technological availability and high dependence on mobile technology, as well as its ground-based space-weather monitoring infrastructure that could enhance services provided by other nations,” said Dr Lee-Anne McKinnell, SANSA MD. South Africa’s fast-moving space exploration programme, with an emerging space weather interest, can benefit greatly from the project’s knowledge exchange and play a significant role in global space weather applications that benefit the global community.

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

15

ATMOSPHERE

THE ATMOSPHERE Earth’s blanket

L

et us have a little experiment; put atmosphere.

The particles floating in the atmosphere your hand in front of your face, and The atmosphere is a thin layer of gases that may be helpful to human beings or may breathe in deeply and slowly blow air surrounds the Earth. It covers the planet be seen as detrimental to living organisms

towards your fingers. What do you feel? It and protects us from the vacuum of space. It on earth; it depends on the state of the feels cool and tingly right? What you felt protects us from electromagnetic radiation particles. Smoke is one type of particle that blowing past your fingertips is commonly given off by the Sun and small objects flying commonly pollutes the atmosphere allowreferred to as air, yes you knew that. through space such as meteoroids. ing us to see the air.

But, did you know that air is one of the primary things that make life on Earth possible? air is a synonym for atmosphere.

The Earth’s atmosphere is made up of multiple gases and other particles. Most of

The atmosphere of our planet is made up of There are five layers within the atmothree primary gases, namely; oxygen, nitro- sphere: gen, and argon. But these three are not the These layers are: troposphere, the stratoonly gases on earth, there are many other sphere, mesosphere, ionosphere and exo-

some of the moons have atmospheres.

gases in the atmosphere in trace or small sphere are the layers of the atmosphere. amounts. Also, there are small particles, Ask your teacher about them or do some floating in the atmosphere, such as dust, research to broaden your knowledge about

But, their atmospheres differ from Earth’s

water, and pollen.

the planets in our solar system and even

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Earth.

CRYOSPHERE

THE CRYOSPHERE AND EARTH'S CLIMATE Breaking down the cyrosphere

T

he cryosphere is the part of the Earth’s surface. This is where water is in solid form, ranging from your

sea ice to glaciers. Part of the cryosphere often overlaps with the hydrosphere, the

of polar oceans. Glaciers and larger ice and liquid, unlike other substances found sheets move slowly over land in polar areas on Earth.

Glaciers are also found on high mountaintops all over the world. The soils of polar With just slight differences in Earth’s temareas called “permafrost”, are filled with perature, thousands of square kilometres of

water on, under and over the surface of the frozen water. These different types of frozen snow and ice can hoard or melt, making the Earth. water are known as the Earth’s cryosphere. cryosphere one of the most powerful point-

ers of climate and climate change.

The cryosphere is as equally important as Did you know that approximately threethe atmosphere in the global system. It quarters of the world’s fresh water are frozen One of the greatest traits about the cryoinfluences surface energy, clouds, precipita- in the cryosphere? sphere is that it provides important infortion, hydrology, and the way air and water mation about the past, present, and future move in the atmosphere and oceans.

Changes in the cryosphere can influence climate. Scientists also use satellites to climate, the same way changes in climate observe the cryosphere and monitor chang-

Ice is found in many different places on can also intensely alter the Earth’s snow es. Using these data, they are able to make Earth. Snow covers the ground at mid and and ice-covered areas. Snow and ice exist predictions about what the cryosphere and high latitudes during winter while sea fairly close to their melting points and can Earth’s climate might look like many years ice and icebergs float in the chilly waters easily change back and forth between solid to come.

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

17

LITHOSPHERE

THE LITHOSPHERE Earth’s coolest layers

T

he lithosphere is the solid “shell” of ment of Earth. The five spheres act together Another differentiating characteristic of the Earth. The lithosphere includes the to influence such different elements such as lithosphere is, its flow properties. Under the hard upper part of the mantle and

ocean salinity, biodiversity, and landscape.

the crust, the outermost layers of Earth’s structure. It is restricted by the atmosphere

effect of the low-intensity, long-term stresses that drive tectonic motion, the lithosphere

We have two types of lithosphere:

responds essentially as a firm shell and

above and the asthenosphere; astheno- The continental lithosphere is linked with thus deforms primarily through hard failure, sphere is another part of the upper mantle, continental crust. It has a range in thickness whereas, the asthenosphere is softened by from about 40 km to approximately 200 km, heat and endures strain through plastic

below.

of which about 40 km that is crust.

deformation.

Under the lithosphere, there is the asthe-

The oceanic lithosphere is linked with oce-

nosphere, which is the weaker, hotter, and

anic crust and exists in the ocean basins.

deeper part of the upper mantle. This part

Oceanic lithosphere is usually about 50 to Here is an interesting fact; the lithosphere

can flow. The lithosphere provides a con-

100 km thick.

ductive lid above the convecting mantle;

was actually discovered by seismology, which means listening to the movement of

as such, it affects heat transport through The lithosphere is one of Earth’s coolest the Earth’s crust through earthquakes. The the Earth.

layers. Some definitions of the lithosphere lithosphere is approximately 74.56 kilomehighlight its ability to conduct heat linked tres thick under the continents and is thin-

The cool and hard lithosphere is just one with the convection taking place in the plas- nest under the oceans at a few miles. of five great spheres that form the environ- tic mantle below the lithosphere.

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Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

It’s what we build

3112

We all dream of a better future. For ourselves, our families and our country.

SANRAL, as part of the National Development Plan, is improving and expanding vital road infrastructure.

In the process we are creating jobs, transferring skills and developing opportunities for all South Africans.

We are proud to be a part of the National Development Plan, because we know that roads are more than just roads, they pave the way to a better future.

More than just roads

BIOSPHERE

THE EARTH'S BIOSPHERE Biosphere

T

he biosphere is defined as the

radiation during the day. Since living organ-

sphere around Earth where life

isms require inorganic metabolites from

exists. Most lifeforms live on or near each of the layers of the biosphere, water

of the ocean at hydrothermal vents.

A lot of factors affect the biosphere and

the surface of Earth. However, some live

from the hydrosphere, mineral from the

our life here on Earth. There are large and

deep within the hydrosphere, while others

lithosphere and chemical elements from

small factors such as the distance between

thrive in the depths of the lithosphere.

the atmosphere, a brief discussion on the

the Earth and the Sun. If Earth was closer

nature and working of each layer will help

to the Sun, it might be too hot for humans

It is 20 kilometres thick from the bottom

us understand the mechanism that influ-

to endure. If we were further away, it might

of the ocean to the lower atmosphere. It

ences metabolic activities of living organ-

be too cold to support life.

is made of three layers: the lithosphere,

isms.

These smaller factors change the living

the hydrosphere and the atmosphere. The living organisms in the biosphere interact

The biosphere is all about life. It extends to

space and organisms must react accord-

and affect each other in many ways and

any place that life of any kind might exist.

ingly. Though humans are able to control

we call this the “a biotic factor�.

The biosphere spreads to the upper areas

much of their immediate environment, they

of the atmosphere where birds and insects

are still vulnerable to weather and earth-

Living organisms are, mostly, limited to the

can be found. It also spreads to the dark

quakes. The smallest of factors in the bio-

parts of the biosphere that receive solar

caves deep in the ground or to the bottom

sphere work on a molecular level.

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Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

HYDROSPHERE

THE HYDROSPHERE All the waters on the Earth's surface By : Denver Nazima

I

f you had to look down at the earth

reservoirs, which contain water. Envision a

from the moon, the earth would appear

reservoir as a large tank that holds liquid; It are less noticeable in comparison to oceans

as a big blue ball floating in space;

streams, but the motion of ponds and lakes

is “a large natural or artificial lake used as

and seas. Oceans and seas are much easier

that is because the earth is made up from

a source of water supply” This procedure is

to notice because, they are of a much larger

about 70% of water, in both frozen and

used to transfer water from one reservoir to

motion scale, and also because the amount

liquid form, which makes up the oceans,

another. The transfer trails of the reservoirs

of water that they contain are much more

lakes, streams, glaciers, and groundwater

penetrate the entire hydrosphere, reach-

than ponds and lakes. The motion that

on Earth. The hydrosphere is scientifically

ing about 15 kilometres (upwards) in the

the water moves is of a greater distance

defined as a great amount of water that

Earth’s atmosphere and five kilometres to

between continents, which reaches the likes

is found, under, and above the surface of

the depths in the Earth’s crust.

of the poles and tropics, which makes it dif-

planet Earth, such as lakes and seas, as

ficult to see.

well as water over surface of the Earth,

A large amount of water forms an uneven

There are different forms of motions; better

such as clouds.

layer surrounding the hydrosphere. It is

known as currents or waves, which move

similar to the atmosphere in various ways,

warm water from the tropics to the poles

The hydrosphere is a water cycle and

which is continuously in motion and can

and cold water from the poles to the trop-

within the water cycle, there is a group of

easily be seen by the motion of rivers and

ics.

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

21

DST

MEET OUR SCIENCE STARS FOR THIS MONTH

We asked some of our Science friends about the courses they are currently studying in university and they had very interesting things to share with us.

By : Ntombizanele Thangayi

Lauren Matthews is a second-year Nature Conservation student, says she chose Nature Conservation “Because of the love I have for nature the outdoors and animals.”

First-year Analytical Chemistry student Bedan Kambamba. He says he chose Analytical Chemistry “Because I want to become an engineer in the petroleum and gas field.”

Ntombikayise Nodunyelwa, Environmental Management first-year student. We asked her what advice would she give someone who wanted to study Environmental Management: “If they really want to study the course, they should first develop love and passion with the environment, do research and see if they are fit enough to do it.”

We asked Yolanda Boso, a first year Analytical Chemistry student where she sees herself in five years and she told us that “In five years’ time I see myself working in different companies where they will call me for chemical analysis in crime scenes. I also see myself with a successful career that will take me to different countries.”

Alice Shisso is a Chemical Engineering student and she told us that she finds her course “very challenging and amazing at the same time because you learn a lot.”

Bonolo Matlala studies Biotechnology and the advice she would give to someone who would like to pursue Biotechnology is “In my field, you should be determined, have patience, be an analytical thinker and persevere.”

Nandipha Mhlakaza is a BHSc graduate in Medical Laboratory Science and tells us that “Medical Laboratory Science is an interesting and challenging course. Knowing that I play an integral role in the health society is one of the things I love the most about my course and job.”

22

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

PROFILE

CLIMATE MODELLING Using the CHPC's new machine

L

engau, the new machine that was

500m to 1km. After her PhD, Mary-Jane

to run real atmosphere simulations with

launched by the Centre for High

worked as a Postdoctoral Research fellow

grid spacing up to about 1km for the real

Performance Computing (CHPC) on 7

at the University of Reading in the United

atmosphere and climate change studies

Kingdom (UK), until January 2016 where

over areas of interest. The researchers at

June 2016 is making climate change simu-

lations at a high-resolution a possibility for she used grid spacing of about 10m model-

CSIR are already in the process of generat-

climate scientists like Mary-Jane Bopape.

ling the atmospheric boundary layer for few

ing climate change simulations with a grid

Mary-Jane is a senior researcher at the

hours. Her PhD and Postdoc work was on

spacing of 1km over Mozambique, Ethiopia,

CHPC who specialises in climate change

idealised processes, meaning, the simula-

Egypt, Nigeria and Namibia. Climate change

studies, and high-resolution modelling at

tions were made for a very simplified atmo-

simulations are used to study the response

all time scales.

sphere because computational limitations

of the atmosphere to increased green-

made it impossible for real atmosphere

house gas concentrations. “From these, we

Mary-Jane was born and raised in Limpopo, simulations to be performed at such high

can determine if we should expect more

where she completed her matric in 1998.

extreme events such as floods, droughts

resolutions.

After her matric, Mary-Jane studied her

and heat waves, and working with other

BSc and BSc Hons (Meteorology) at the

The new machine of the CHPC makes it

scientists we can help with adaptation

University of Pretoria (UP). She joined

possible for Mary-Jane and her colleagues

plans� explains Mary-Jane .

the South African Weather Service in 2003, where she worked on regional climate modelling on seasonal time scales.

While at SAWS she registered for an MSc (Meteorology), also at UP which she completed in 2006. She is a co-recipient of the 2008 World Meteorological Organization research award for young scientists, for a paper she co-authored from her MSc work.

Mary-Jane joined the CSIR during early 2008 and has since been using the CHPC machines for climate studies. Climate models make calculations of the state of the atmosphere on a grid, where lines of latitude and longitude meet.

While at CSIR, Mary-Jane registered for a PhD (Meteorology) at UP, which she completed in 2013 at the age of 31.

In her PhD, she studied thunderstorms using a model that used grid spacing of

Mary-Jane Bopape

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

23

CAREERS

Fields you may have not known about

Oceanography Oceanography is the study of the world’s ocean, including aspects of biology, chemistry, physics, geology, meteorology, and astronomy, among many others.

Environmental and Geographical Science Environmental and Geographical Science aims to further knowledge, understanding and management of interactions between humans and their social, biological, and physical life-support systems.

Agricultural Management

The path less travelled

Agriculture is an applied science involved in many fields in

T

the food and fibre industry. The aim of the course is to train

he Science field is so vast, it’s hard to know exactly which courses to study and what jobs are out there. South Africa’s top universities have provided us with information on some courses you probably did not know about, remember to do thorough research.

managers for the agricultural industry.

Nature Conservation Nature Conservation is the wise management and utilisation of natural renewable resources in a sustainable manner to ensure the maintenance of biodiversity.

Landscape Technology

Applied Geology

Landscape Technology is the technical and practical appli-

Geology is the study of the history of planet Earth and the

cation of knowledge in practice. The landscape qualification

processes that have acted upon it. Geologists are

will assist students in becoming part of the implementa-

interested in the changes that the earth has undergone and

tion or construction phase of a landscape project, designing

how its physical, chemical, and biological systems have

basic residential gardens and corporate areas.

interacted during its 4.5 billion year history.

Climatology

Biodiversity and Conversation Biology

A climatologist attempts to discover and explain the

This is a branch of biology that deals with threats to biodi-

impacts of climate so that society can plan its activities,

versity and with preserving the biologic and genetic diver-

design its buildings and infrastructure, and anticipate the

sity of animals and plants. Conservation Biology is the study

effects of adverse conditions.

of how we can prevent species and habitats from being lost while still maintaining sustainable human societies.

Environmental and Water Science Environmental and Water Science is the field of science that studies the interactions of the physical, chemical, and biological components of the environment and also the relationships and effects of these components with the organisms in the environment.

Meteorology Meteorology is the study of the atmosphere. Since weather is everywhere, meteorologists can be found all over the world doing many different jobs. An operational forecaster analyses weather conditions and issues forecasts or alerts the public of severe weather for their area.

26

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

ARC

T

DECIDUOUS FRUIT AND DROUGHT

o export deciduous fruit and earn foreign exchange may seem to be the money maker – especially with a

favourable exchange rate. However, unless you target a specific niche market, are high yields of premium quality fruit a prerequisite for success. This can become quite a

The effects of drought on fruit trees By: Dr Theresa Volschenk, ARC Infruitec-Nietvoorbij, Stellenbosch

Table 1: General effects of irrigation on apple yield and fruit quality

challenge under drought conditions!

EFFECT OF IRRIGATION ON APPLE YIELD AND FRUIT QUALITY

In South Africa, about 85% of the area under deciduous fruit trees is in the Western Cape, which is a winter rainfall region. Bud break of deciduous fruit trees normally occurs during spring and the leaf area of most cultivars increases until mid-summer. Time of harvest depends on cultivar, but in the Western Cape most stone and pome fruit are harvested between November and April.

During summer the atmosphere normally

TOO LITTLE IRRIGATION

TOO MUCH IRRIGATION

Low production

Low production

Less shoot growth

Too much shoot growth

Small fruit

Less fruit buds develop

Fruit drop

Competition: shoots and fruit

Leaf fall

Poor quality

Limited reserves

Pests and diseases

Poor quality

Poor colour

has high evaporative demand as tempera-

Small fruit

tures are high and humidity low. This is the

Sunburn

<Total soluble solids Environment harmed

time of year when the water requirements

Waterlogging

of deciduous fruit are the highest.

Salinisation

Apple trees are sensitive to dry soil condi-

set, and from about 30 to 40 days from full

position, sensitive crop development stages,

tions especially during full bloom and fruit

bloom until harvest, during which fruit cell

the irrigation history of orchards, water

enlargement occurs. Severe drought during

holding capacity of soils and adjustment of

the second half of summer may also seri-

cultivation practices. Quite a mouthful and

ously affect the flower bud formation of

definitely a challenge!

the next seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crop or result in untimely flowering. After harvest, irrigation or enough rainfall is necessary to ensure post-harvest Severe water stress during the fruit cell enlargement or ripening stages of fruit may promote advanced leaf fall and sunburn of Golden Delicious apples.

fertiliser is washed into the root zone and that nutrients are taken up by the tree roots for growth at bud break of the next season.

Deciduous fruit producers have to juggle

a

b

several balls simultaneously in order to still make money or to break economically even during drought periods and the first year or two directly thereafter. A farm water management strategy has to consider the amount of irrigation water available, orchard Relative seasonal water requirements of apple trees.

composition (i.e young, high potential/ income; low potential/income), cultivar com-

In the Western Cape irrigation is a necessity to produce high yield and premium quality apple (a) and pear (b) fruit for the export market.

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

27

IDENTITY IS IN THE

EYE OF THE BEHOLDER “Dare to be different, but at the same time, stay true to yourself.” GUGULETHU MABUZA-HOCQUET These are very appropriate words indeed from the woman who has committed her research to identity protection.

The way Gugu sees it, your identity is all you really have – and the answer to protecting it, lies in iris biometrics.

She is exploring the unique iris properties of the South African population that may just hold the key to a uniquely South African security encryption system.

“Your iris does not only hold information such as your age, gender and race, it also says you are part of a demographic mix that is not found elsewhere in the world. Now imagine a future where those unique features in your eyes will protect the most valuble thing you have – your identity.”

Gugu describes the way she ended up in science as a “beautiful accident”. It’s certainly one to be thankful for.

BRIGHT YOUNG SCIENTISTS BEHIND IDEAS THAT WORK. www.csirideasthatwork.co.za

SAVE WATER

#SAVEWATER

CAMPAIGN By: Samantha Buttress

Educating People

T

he Department of Water and

ence at the campaign was, “It was a great

Sanitation launched a #SAVEWATER

experience, just being able to share knowl-

campaign to promote ways on how

edge with people and telling them the

to save water. With this campaign, the

importance of saving water.” She explains

department seeks to unlock new ideas from

that working on the campaign taught her

the communities and private sectors within

a lot of things about saving water; such as

South Africa.

taking shorter showers than she normally does and also change her ways of using

Recently, we had the opportunity to sit

water.

down with house Disk jockey (DJ) Ms Jones and talk to her about the #SAVEWATER

The Department of Water and Sanitation

campaign, which took place on 10th May

also launched a competition with the fol-

2016 in Gugulethu. Ms Jones is a mother,

lowing categories, the individuals, and

a business woman, and a force to be

groups with team members over the age of

reckoned with; especially in the male

25 years old and youth with team members

dominated Disc Jockey industry. Ms Jones

under the age of 25 years old, the enter-

hails from Johannesburg, born and bred in

prise category of established small, medium

Randfontein. Her latest track ‘Next better

and large companies of water and the

man’ featuring the Durban house music

investigative journalism research category.

titan, L’vovo Derrango is climbing the charts and making big waves on the house scene.

To enter you will need to shoot a video clip

We had a chance to catch up with her and

explaining your water hack concept and

get her views on the #SAVEWATER cam-

send the link via the website at www.hack-

paign.

4water.org.za or email hack4@dws.gov.za.

The objective of the #SAVEWATER campaign was to educate people in rural areas, taxi ranks and everyone in South Africa how to save water. Jones tells us how her experi-

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

29

TOP 10

TOP 10 WAYS TO SAVE WATER An essential practice As of January 1, 2016, most of the provinces in South Africa have introduced water restrictions imposed on their residents – putting them at risk of facing up to R12 000 fines should they fail to adhere to the required restrictions.

When it comes to conserving water, small changes can have a big impact on the amount of water you save.

1.

3.

2.

Take shorter showers.

Turn off the shower after soaping up, and then turn it

Turn off the water after you wet your toothbrush.

There is no need to keep the

back on to rinse. A four-minute

water running while brushing

shower uses approximately 20

your teeth. Just wet your brush

to 40 litres of water.

and fill a glass for mouth rinsing.

4.

When washing dishes by hand, don’t leave the water running for rinsing.

Running tap water to cool

If you have a double-basin, fill one with soapy

it off for drinking water is

water and one with rinse water. If you have

wasteful. Store drinking

a single-basin sink, gather washed dishes in

water in the fridge in a

a dish rack and rinse them with new clean

safe drinking bottle.

water in the basin.

5.

Don’t run the hose while washing your car.

6.

Clean the car using a

Fix a dripping tap.

A dripping tap can waste

7.

15 litres of water a day,

bucket of soapy water.

litres of water an hour.

a year.

rinsing - this simple tip

Protect your plants with

can save as much as 150

bark chippings, heavy

litres when washing a car.

8.

compost or straw and irrigating them in the

Use a rain barrel to harvest rainwater.

You can also cut water use by 33% by watering plants manually instead of using automatic sprinklers.

early morning and late

9.

Use a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways and sidewalks.

This saves 150 litres or more each time you use a broom instead of hosepipes.

30

Water your garden with a watering can rather than a hosepipe.

A hosepipe uses 1,000

or 5,500 litres of water

Use the hose only for

Keep a bottle of drinking water in the fridge.

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

afternoon will reduce evaporation and also help save water.

10.

Soak pots and pans instead of letting the water run while you scrape them.

FACTS FEATURE

THE WONDERS OF WATER Amazing facts for health and wellness

Y

ou have been told since you were young to drink eight

in the body.

glasses of water a day. It is not always clear how drinking a lot of water can help. According to various studies, water

Water helps prevent cure colitis.

does so much more to help us manage weight and feel great that

Colitis pain is a sign of water shortage in the large gut. This pain

its benefits should not be overlooked. Here are some facts about

is associated with constipation because the large intestine tight-

the wonders of water.

ens and squeezes the last drop of water from the excrements, which leads to lack of water lubrication.

Water prevents and helps cure arthritis.

Arthritis is known to be a sign of water shortage in painful joints.

Water and salt prevent and helps cure asthma.

It can affect the young as well as the old. The use of pain-killers

Asthma is a complication of dehydration in the body. It is caused

does not cure the problem but, exposes the person to further

by the drought management programs of the body. In asthma,

damage from pain medications.

free passage of air is obstructed so that water does not leave the body in the form of vapour - the winter steam.

Prevent and help cure back pain with water.

Lower-back pain and ankylosing arthritis of the spine are signs of

Prevent and help cure high blood pressure with water

water shortage in the spinal column and discs - the water cush-

Hypertension is a state of adaptation of the body to a generalised

ions that support the weight of the body.

drought when there is not enough water to fill all the blood vessels that diffuse water into vital cells.

Water helps prevent cure angina.

Heart pain - angina - is a sign of water shortage in the heart or

Lowers blood cholesterol.

lung axis. This should be treated with high water intake until you

High cholesterol levels are an indicator of early drought man-

are free of pain and independent of medications.

agement by the body. Cholesterol is a clay-like material that is poured in the gaps of some cell membranes to safeguard them

Prevents and helps to cure migraines.

against losing their vital water content to the osmotically more

Migraine is a sign of water needed by the brain and the eyes. It

powerful blood circulating in their vicinity.

will totally clear up if dehydration is prevented from establishing

Terminology Box • Gastrointestinal tract - An organ system responsible for transporting and digesting foodstuffs, absorbing nutrients, and expelling waste.

• Ankylosing arthritis - A type of arthritis that affects the spine.

• Angina - A condition marked by severe pain in the chest, often also xspreading to the shoulders, arms, and neck, owing to an inadequate blood supply to the heart.

• Colitis - Inflammation of the lining of the colon.

• Hypertension – An abnormally high blood pressure. A state of great psychological stress.

• Membranes - The thin, limiting covering of a cell or cell part.

• Osmotically – The diffusion of fluids through membranes or porous partitions.

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

31

FEATURE STUDENT PROFILE

AN OVERVIEW ON NATURE CONSERVATION Conserving our environment for future generations By: Pamela Yoli

2

0 year old second-year student

Here, he gives us an overview of his course.

Mbonisi Ngcofe seemed shy in the beginning of the interview, as would

future generations; for them to be able to experience and benefit from it as well.

Q: What are you currently studying?

A: Nature conservation

Q: Would you encourage anyone else

hilariously, his passion for his course shines

Q: Why did you choose the course?

to study it?

A: It is very important to have more con-

through.

A: Because I fell in love with nature from

servationists in our country; as the country

a young age, I was lucky enough to find

lacks conservationists to save our environ-

something I could study that was very much

ment

anyone. But, as he kept talking—stumbling over his words candidly and often

a part of nature.

Q: How are you finding your course?

Q: If you had to do a very brief SWOT

to being outdoors, because sometimes the

analysis of your course what would it be?

A: Strengths - Because there aren’t many

weather and terrain are not in my favour

conservationists; so there is a need for us

but, I am doing something I love therefore,

right now.

it’s easier to cope with.

Weakness - Our government does not really

A: It can be a bit challenging; with regards

invest in our field.

Q: Give me a short description of what

Opportunities - You have the opportunity to

you do when on the site?

A: Well basically, we collect specimens

travel and always be outside instead of an

and do scientific research on them, finalise

Threats - People that have or are studying

solutions and implement new strategies

Environmental Sciences or Environmental

that we learn.

Management because, those courses are

office if you’re an outdoors kind of person.

very similar to my course and they are

Q: How does the climate affect your

cheaper to hire once they graduate.

course?

A: In every way; because plants and the

Q: On completion of the course, what

on the climate.

are some the jobs one could branch into?

A: Management of natural resources

Q: How do you think what you are

or protected areas, Alien species con-

studying will benefit the country or world?

A: Well, since I am in conservation, I think help-

trol, Environmental policy compliance,

ing our country conserve our environment for

what I have been taught so far.

environment in general are very dependent

Environmental education, Research, Field guiding, Ecotourism just to name a few of

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

33

STUDENT PROFILE

By: Pamela Yoli

SA’S NEXT BIG CITY AND REGIONAL PLANNER

Empowering the previously disadvantaged

I

n his first ever profile, the 24 year old

key in a developing country such as ours”

way…” he continued to say that “whereas,

Samuel Mokgalong born in Polokwane,

explains Mokgalong.

in the public sector, you can play a bigger

bred in Johannesburg comes off cool,

part as South Africa is a place that has

calm and collected. Not being a stranger

Samuel tells us that choosing to study City

inherited woes from our previous govern-

to the camera Mokgalong jokes “I’m ready

and Regional Planning was his intuition. He

ment.” Samuel describes the apartheid era

for my close-up!”. Samuel told us about his

knew what he wanted to do, but just didn’t

as something that has a huge spatial effect

reasons for studying in Civil Engineering

know what it was called and so he went

on South Africa “because to this day we

and doing his Masters in City and Regional

and did research and came across City and

are still dealing with spatial inequality and

Planning —and his outlook on play-

Regional Planning and fell in love with it.

social and economic problems as a result of

ing your role in our country. Samuel is

our previous ways. Apartheid planning was

currently studying Masters in City and

a form of city planning so City and Regional

Regional Planning. He first studied Civil Engineering and adds that the reason he chose this course is because he needed a

my passion has always been people based and how to help and develop people

more spatial aspect of it. “My passion has

Planning surely is a way to improve those issues” he concludes.

Samuel had an opportunity to describe his

always been people based and how to

When asked how his career would benefit

course; he described his course as “broad,

help and develop people so out of all the

South Africa he said, “It depends on how

full of opportunities and empowers black

Engineering-related courses I chose Civil

you take it or what you do with it. In the

engineers. It all depends on what you want

Engineering, City and Regional Planning

private sector; unfortunately, you’re looking

and what is driving you, go out there and

has a more social aspect, which I think is

at helping people in a very profit driven

open doors for yourself”.

34

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

DST

NATIONAL SCIENCE WEEK 2016 Breaking barriers

T

he University of Western Cape (UWC) hosts the launch

NSW is designed for everyone; it’s definitely not restricted to any-

of the National Science Week (NSW) on August 5, 2016.

one. The events, activities, talks and shows are for every age group.

The NSW programme will run from 8-13 August 2016.

It provides an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of

Each year a different theme is chosen and activities are offered

South African scientists to the world of knowledge.

around the theme to the target audiences. This year’s theme is “Science for sustainable development and improved quality of

Last year over 4 000 people including learners, educators and

life.” The theme focuses on the role and the use of the sciences

parents, as well as a delegation from the Beijing Association for

in supporting the practical management of the environment and

Science and Technology in China, converged on the UFS campus

development for the daily survival and future development of

to experience “science at work”, this year SAASTA hopes the num-

humanity.

ber of people attending increases as they help bring the world of science to the public of South Africa.

The NSW, managed by SAASTA on behalf of the Department of Science and Technology, is an annual week-long event aimed at

NSW also aims to encourage an interest in science pursuits among

celebrating the role that Science, Mathematics, Engineering and

the general public and to encourage younger people to become

Technology (STEM) play in everyday life and encouraging more

fascinated by the world we live in.

young people to follow careers in these fields. The week’s activities are sent out by SAASTA, through grant holders appointed to conceptualise and host activities.

Key contributing factors such as innovative programmes; developed by the grant holders, will open doors to new careers in the South Africa and assist in job creation.

A lot of people including learners, educators and members of the public enjoy the wide variety of science projects on offer. In addition to the exhibitions, quizzes, competitions and lectures on a variety of science topics at the venue, community outreach programmes are conducted to reach greater numbers of people.

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

35

SCIENCE NEWS

According to NASA, new research has detected smaller sulphur dioxide concentrations and sources around the world, including humanmade sources such as medium-size power plants and oil-related activities.

SCIENC

E NEWS

The University of Cape Town’s African Climate and Development initiative says urgent action needs to be taken to lessen the effects of climate change in the Agricultural Sector.

The number of Science, Engineering and Technology (SET) doctoral degrees awarded to black graduates in South Africa is increasing. This is according to the latest annual SET Indicators publication, released by the National Advisory Council on Innovation (NACI).

This year, the theme for Youth Month is ‘Youth moving South Africa forward’.

Throughout the youth month, the CSIR will showcase its contribution to successful human capital development by profiling its young researchers.

Climate change activists; gathered at Emalahleni, in Mpumalanga, have once again called on the government to consider alternative sources of energy.

The Centre for High Performance Computing (CHPC) in Cape Town has unveiled the fastest computer on the continent. The petaflop (PFLOP) machine has been built to process speeds of a thousand trillion floating point operations per second.

Germany has awarded South African Minister of Science and Technology Naledi Pandor the Grand Cross of Merit for her work to build scientific relations between the two countries.

An awardwinning Science research project by two Cape Town matric pupils hopes to fast- track the eradication of toxins in maize crops that can cause growth stunting in children and cancers, and potentially save thousands of lives.

Nozipho Gumbi from Eshowe is this year’s international FameLab winner; all the way from KwaZulu-Natal, a PhD candidate at the University of South Africa, will be travelling to the UK to go up against 30 country winners for the international title.

FEATURE DST

NET-ZERO WATER AND ENERGY SCIENCE CENTRE FOR COFIMVABA A ''living lab"

C

utting-edge design technology has

science unit donated by the DST and Sasol.

achieve beyond net-zero energy and water

been incorporated in the construc-

The Cofimvaba Science centre is the

by selecting and combining technolo-

tion of the Department of Science

first Science centre in South Africa to be

gies to maximise building performance.

and Technology’s (DST) new Science centre

purpose-designed, with green Science,

A net-zero-energy building is a building

in Cofimvaba.

Technology and Innovation (STI) used in the that produces as much energy on-site as actual building.

The Minister of Science and Technology,

it consumes. Similarly, the net-zero water design will see the building harvest more

Naledi Pandor, kicked off the construction

The DST appointed its entity the Council

water than it uses – making it one of only

phase of the R30 million facility at a sod-

for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

a handful of buildings in South Africa that

turning event in the Eastern Cape. The

to design the new Science centre, which

can do this.

event was part of an imbizo in the area to

is scheduled for completion by the end of

raise awareness about the importance of

2016. The CSIR design demonstrates how

The Science centre will produce the energy

Science and Technology in society.

extremely environmentally friendly build-

it needs through solar panels on the roof-

ings can be designed, constructed and

top and small-scale wind turbines. This

occupied.

will make it a grid asset, as energy gener-

The construction of the Science centre will assist 26 high schools in the area.

Currently, these schools rely on a mobile

ated on the site can be fed back into the The Science centre has been designed to

grid when the building has a surplus.

Minister Pandor said the centre was a ‘’living lab”, serving as a proof-of-concept in the building industry.

The Minister added that the centre would run science programmes for recreational and leisure purposes – showing that science could be enjoyable. Teachers and learners in the district and beyond will be supported in their lessons through a host of activities.

The Deputy Minister of Education, Enver Surty, welcomed the initiative to build the facility in the rural area, saying the Department of Basic Education had long

Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor,at the construction site of the R30 million science centre in Cofimvaba in the Eastern Cape.

been in partnership with the DST to improve the learning and teaching of science in the country.

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

37

Promoting Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Education, Careers and Entrepreneurship in Southern Africa

WHO WE ARE The P-STEM Foundation is a STEM advocacy organisation founded to promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education, career and entrepreneurship in historically disadvantaged communities. We focus on highlighting STEM opportunities; researching and quantifying attitudes to STEM; as well as working at changing perceptions at grass root levels by informing, promoting, and supporting communities, grass root organisations and learners interested in STEM. The P-STEM Foundation seeks to redress youth unemployment by channeling and supporting more at risk youth into STEM education and careers.

OUR AFTER SCHOOLS PROGRAMS These are geared towards developing skills and confidence in Maths, Science and Technology through a consolidated curriculum that introduces increasingly complex STEM concepts.

UPCOMING EVENTS Mandela Day event in Johannesburg, 16th of July 2016 The P-STEM Foundation in partnership with Accenture will run a Diabetes workshop that will serve the dual purposes of educating on the disease, as well as developing models of the latest treatments for High School and Primary School learners.

STEM Community Day in Langa, September 2016 We will be in Langa, Cape Town in September to roll out our STEM Community Engagement Model. We kick off by visiting surrounding schools to create awareness through STEM Talks and thereafter run a STEM Community Day. This is a science and tech fair that focuses on presenting STEM as fun, interesting, and engaging.

There are opportunities for; â&#x20AC;˘

Individuals to volunteer to assist at the event or to be STEM Role models; and

â&#x20AC;˘

Organisation in STEM to partner with us to exhibit what they do at the STEM Community day

International Day of the Girl Child Conference, 7th of October 2016 To commemorate the day, the P-STEM Foundation will be running a daylong conference for female learners, students and professionals interested in a STEM Career.

If you are interested in getting involved in any of our activities, contact us on Tel: +27 11 033 9780

Email: info@pstem.org.za

Facebook: PSTEMFoundation

Twitter: @p_stem

www.pstem.org.za

CSIR

CSIR PROJECTS DRASTIC TEMPERATURE INCREASE

OVER AFRICA CSIR climate model

C

SIR climate modellers believe that

CSIR Principal Researcher and leader of the

2016 is on its way to being the

study entitled, Projections of rapidly rising

warmest year ever recorded. This

surface temperatures over Africa under low

“Globally, Africa is the single largest

mitigation.

source of biomass burning emissions,”

is partially due to climate change, and partially due to a massive El Nino event

health.

says Engelbrecht. “It is very important to

currently developing in the Pacific Ocean.

Africa is particularly vulnerable to excessive

understand the impacts of increasing occur-

Temperatures over subtropical southern

temperature increases due to the conti-

rences of fires on the African savannas, as

Africa have risen at more than twice the

nent’s dependence on subsistence farming

well as potential feedbacks to the regional

global rate over the last five decades.

and rain-fed agriculture. “For many regions,

and global climate system” concludes

the impact of temperature increases on the

Engelbrecht.

This was revealed in a CSIR study using

agricultural and biodiversity sectors may

a regional climate model integrated on a

be significant, stemming from temperature-

powerful computer-cluster at its Centre for

related extreme events such as heatwaves,

High Performance Computing (CHPC), to

wildfires and agricultural drought,” explains

obtain detailed projections of future cli-

Dr Engelbrecht.

mate change over Africa.

Heatwaves are rare events over Africa under This study came ahead of the United

present day conditions. The highest number

Nations Framework Convention on Climate

of heat wave days occurs over the Limpopo

Change (UNFCCC)’s 21st Conference of the

river basin region in southern Africa, the

Parties (CoP 21), that took place in Paris,

eastern interior and east coast regions of

France in November 2015. The meeting

South Africa and the Mediterranean coast

Dr Francois Engelbrecht, CSIR Principal Researcher and leader of the study entitled, Projections of rapidly rising surface temperatures over Africa under low mitigation

aimed to achieve a legally binding and uni- of North Africa. Drastically increased occurversal agreement on climate, with the aim

rences of heat wave days may be expected

of keeping global warming below 2 ºC.

across the continent under climate change,

“If the negotiations fail to ensure a high-

contributing to decreased maize crop yield

mitigation future, we are likely to see rap-

through the exceedance of critical tem-

idly rising surface temperature across the

perature thresholds increases in livestock

continent,” says Dr Francois Engelbrecht,

mortality and adverse impacts on human

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

39

GLOBAL WARMING

ACTIVITIES THAT CAN COMBAT

GLOBAL WARMING Be the solution

Global warming is the greatest environmental challenge of the times we live in. It’s about time we get conscious of our responsibilities and perform our duties to combat this environmental hazard. Everyone needs to be involved; here are a few things that school children can do to help reduce global warming.

Turn off your computers when not in use. If you

Spread the word. Give a presentation to your

do this less electricity will need to be produced,

family, school, or community group explaining

which means less coal, oil and gas will have to

how their actions can cause or reduce climate

be burnt in power computers stations, which

change. Talk to your friends and family in order

results in less air pollution and less carbon

to create awareness about global warming and

dioxide!

listen to what they have to offer as solutions.

Offer to help your parents keep

Planting trees is a great way to

the air filters on your air condi-

reduce greenhouse gases. Trees

tioner and furnace clean.

absorb carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, from the air.

Recycle cans, bottles, plastic bags,

Always remember your four Rs!

and newspapers. Recycling used

Reduce: the most important. Reuse

materials uses less energy than

whatever you can like plastic super-

making new ones.

market bags. If you or someone in your family is handy, try to Repair it.

Recycle it.

High school students can investigate the link between

University students can play an important role in

everyday actions at their high school, greenhouse gas

reducing greenhouse emissions at their institu-

emissions, and climate change. Students can learn

tions by reducing their emissions from energy

about climate change, estimate their school’s green-

they use in campus residences.

house gas emissions, and identify ways to reduce their school’s climate impact.

40

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

QUIZ

QUIZ

1

Who or what is El Niño?

Where does drinking water come from?

5

a) The Costa Rican diplomat leading UN climate change talks

a) Surface Water

b) A weather phenomenon that can warm the seas, prompting

b) Groundwater

drought and flooding

c) Desalinated seawater

c) The Spanish judge who is redefining environmental crimes

d) All of the above

in international law as crimes against humanities

How many people in the world lack access to water?

2

a) 1 in 8

d) Brazil’s largest scandal-hit oil giant

When is biodiversity day this year?

6

a) 01 June 2016

b) 1 in 15

b) 16 June 2016

c) 1 in 30

c) 18 July 2016

d) 1 in 50

d) 22 May 2016

How many people die every day from waterborne diseases?

3

Which South African province is badly affected by drought?

7

a) 880

a) Eastern Cape

b) 1200 c) 2500

b) KwaZulu-Natal

d) 4800

c) Western Cape d) Gauteng

Who described the planet as “an immense pile of filth” earlier this year?

4

a) Barack Obama b) Donald Trump c) The Dalai d) The Pope

8

Which country has the largest global warming emitters? a) United Kingdom b) China c) The United States of America d) Brazil

Which of the following industries are negatively affected by global warming?

9

a) Commercial fishing b) Wine-making c) Insurance d) All of the above

By recycling 1 tonne of paper you save:

10

a) 17 trees b) 400 litres of oil c) 7000 litres of water d) All of the above

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

41

PUZZLE

WORDSEARCH Climate

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Geography

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El nino

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Greenhouse

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Temperature

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Weather Predict Humidity Storm Equater

Across 1. What is the childlike name given to the significant weather activity link to sea temperature rise in the Pacific Ocean?

2. Trying to predict the weather is known as weather ______?

3. Blizzards feature low temperature, strong winds and heavy _____?

4. The force on a surface by the weight of the air above is __________ pressure?

5. What is O3?

6. What is the most common gas in the earth’s atmosphere?

2 1

7. What type of cloud is normally associated with thunderstorms?

1

8. What is the line on a weather chart, which joins points of equal pressure?

2

3

Down:

4

1. What is the ‘ology’ term for the study or science of 3

4

the weather?

6

2. What is the unit of measurement of wind speed?

5

6

7

3. A thermometer is a device used to measure what?

4. Earth’s recent temperature rises, which have been

5 1

8

linked to human activity, is known as global _______?

5. What common term refers to movement of air from a high-pressure to a low-pressure zone?

6. What is a haboob?

7. A pattern of weather over a long period of time is called?

42

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

ANSWERS

ANSWERS

Induction Science Issue

SUDOKU

SCIENCESTARS Issue 11 | April/May 2016

INDUCTION

THE ART OF BRINGING ABOUT

3 7

9 5

4 1

8 4

6 3

2 9

5 2

1 8

7 6

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2

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1

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5 3

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2 1

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WORDSEARCH

QUIZ 1. It is creating an electric current from a changing magnetic

T

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D

field 2. A magnetic field is formed around the wire 3. From south to north 4. Current 5. All of the above 6. Meet new people 7. A guide to your class for guests and new pupils 8. Introduction 9. All of the above 10. Proving of a theorem

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

43

DST

ASSAf YOUNG SCIENTIST OPPORTUNITIES Applying scientific thinking in the service of society

M

embership of the South African

for Society Symposium.

internationally recognised science journals.

For details visit: www.sayas.org.za;

For details visit: http://www.assaf.org.za

Young Academy of Science (SAYAS)

The South African Young Academy of

www.sayasblog.com

Science (SAYAS) is the voice of young sci-

Facebook: South African Young Academy of

entists in South Africa. SAYAS aims to con-

Science Twitter: https://twitter.com/sayas_sa Scientists

tribute towards solutions to national and

TWAS-ROSSA Opportunities for Young The World Academy of Sciences Regional

global challenges facing society; provide a

Annual Young Scientists’ Conference

Office for sub-Saharan Africa (TWAS-ROSSA)

platform for young scientists to influence

Since 2011, ASSAf has hosted an Annual

is hosted by ASSAf. TWAS-ROSSA is one of

policy decisions; contribute towards the

Young Scientists’ Conference. The confer-

five regional offices of The World Academy

development of scientific capacity in South

ence is aimed at young scientists under

of Sciences (TWAS). TWAS-ROSSA has the

Africa through mentoring and role model-

the age of 40 who are in possession of at

following opportunities for young scien-

ling of future scientists; and foster oppor-

least a Masters degree. Participation of PhD, tists:

tunities for interdisciplinary collaborations

postdoctoral and early career researchers is

• BIOVISION Forum attendance in Lyon or

amongst young scientists.

encouraged. Participants present a poster

Alexandria.

or oral papers and good networking oppor-

• Nomination for a five-year term as TWAS

The strategic objectives of SAYAS are:

tunities are provided. Participants should

Young Affiliate.

• Advancing scientific excellence for the

have an interest in the annual theme of the

• TWAS-ROSSA Young Scientists’ Prize.

country and the continent.

conference. The conference attracts young

• TWAS Regional Prize – open to young and

• Influencing science policy.

scientists from South Africa, Africa and

senior scientists.

• Translating science for society to promote beyond.

• TWAS-ROSSA Regional Young Scientists’

science awareness.

Conference.

For details visit: http://www.assaf.org.za

SAYAS is hosted by the Academy of Science

• TWAS-Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) Cooperation Visits Programme for sci-

of South Africa (ASSAf) and has strong con- AU-TWAS Young Scientists’ National Award

entists from sub-Saharan Africa.

nections with the Global Young Academy

The AU-TWAS award scheme aims to recog-

• Various TWAS Fellowships.

(GYA). It hosted the GYA annual meeting in

nise and reward talented young scientists

• Science diplomacy workshops.

2012.

in Africa. In South Africa, the award is managed by ASSAf on behalf of its partners,

Nominations to SAYAS membership take

the African Union Commission (AUC), The

place annually. SAYAS membership is a

World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) and

For details contact: twasrossa@assaf.org.za Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings

great honour for young scientists/research- the Department of Science and Technology

ASSAf is the academic partner of the

ers below the age of 40 years. SAYAS

(DST). Through this award, the AU and

Lindau Foundation, tasked with raising

members all have PhD degrees and have

TWAS jointly recognise and reward out-

awareness about the annual Lindau Nobel

published their research widely. Some are

standing young scientists in South Africa.

Laureate Meetings. The objective is to

professors and are already supervising

The recipients should be under the age of

increase the number of young South African

students.

40, living and working in South Africa, and

participants in these prestigious meetings,

SAYAS activities include an annual Science

have a record of research publications in

where the opportunity exists to interact

44

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

DST

with Nobel Laureates. There is also an

young scientists:

their expertise.

opportunity to become part of the network • OWSD Fellowships for postgraduate study

• Access information on various studies,

of Lindau Nobel Laureate Alumni and to

in South Africa.

workshops and conferences.

continue benefitting from this opportunity

• South Africans can also apply to be OWSD

to connect with other leading young sci-

Fellows in other countries.

Be included in the ASSAf database and

entists.

• Profiling of young scientists, especially

receive information on opportunities.

women.

About ASSAf

For details contact: lindau-nobel@assaf.

• Membership of OWSD is open to males

org.za

and females.

Academy Partnerships

For details visit: http://www.owsdsa.org.za

The Academy of Science of South Africa was inaugurated in May 1996 by the former

ASSAf has signed memoranda of under-

President of South Africa and patron of the Academy, Nelson Mandela. It was formed in

standing (MoUs) with several science

Other Young Scientist Opportunities

response to the need for an academy of sci-

academies in Africa and in Europe. A key

ASSAf, as a member of various global

ence congruent with the dawn of democra-

focus of these MoUs is activities that

networks such as the Network of African

cy in South Africa – activist in its mission of

involve young scientists. Opportunities

Academies of Science (NASAC) and the

using science for the benefit of society. The

exist for young scientists to participate in

InterAcademy Partnership (IAP) and as a

mandate of the Academy encompasses all

symposia/workshops on a variety of top-

partner with organisations such as the

fields of scientific enquiry and it includes

ics, both in South Africa and abroad. All

Global Young Academy (GYA), is often

the full diversity of South Africa’s distin-

expenses are paid and young scientists

requested to nominate young scientists for

guished scientists. The Parliament of South

get an opportunity to network with young

international opportunities. These include:

Africa passed the Academy of Science of

and senior scientists from other countries

• Attending meetings of the Global Young

South Africa Act (Act 67 of 2001), as amend-

working in their field. Announcements are

Academy.

ed, which came into operation in May 2002.

advertised on the ASSAf, SAYAS, OWSD and

• Attending the NASAC-Leopoldina young

ASSAf is the official national Academy of

TWAS-ROSSA websites, and also distributed scientist training events.

Science of South Africa and represents the

to the ASSAf young scientists’ database.

country in the international community

• Participation in the IAP for Health Young

Young scientists are encouraged to register Physician Leaders Programme.

of science academies. Since its inception,

on this database.

For details visit:

ASSAf has grown from a small, emergent

http://www.assaf.org.za

organisation to a well-established academy.

For details visit: http://www.assaf.org.za

http://nasaconline.org http://www.interacademies.net

Organisation of Women in Science for the

http://globalyoungacademy.net

www.assaf.org.za

Developing World (OWSD)

http://www.iamp-online.org

1st Floor Block A, The Woods 41 De

The OWSD South Africa National Chapter

Havilland Crescent Persequor Park Meiring

is hosted by ASSAf. It was inaugurated

In partnership with ASSAf, young scientists

Naudé Road, Lynnwood Pretoria, South

in 2009 and is constituted by a group of

can:

Africa PO Box 72135 Lynnwood Ridge 0040

OWSD members who aims to increase

• Access opportunities to attend many of

Pretoria, South Africa

and promote women’s participation in sci-

the convening activities of ASSAf and to

Switchboard: +27 12 349 6600/21/22 Tel:

ence and technology (S&T) professions, in

also make various presentations based on

+27 12 345 6789 Fax: +27 12 345 6789

scientific leadership, and in the decisionmaking processes at the national level. The OWSD National Chapter is also the focal point of GenderInSITE in southern Africa.

These are some of the opportunities for

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

45

EXPERIMENT

BENDING PENCIL EXPERIMENT Refraction and Sight Light travels more slowly in water than it does in air, and that causes the light to bend when it goes from water to air or vice versa. Watch how the light bends depends on the shape of the water surface and the angle at which the light hits it. Let us see how the pencil bends in water.

You will need:

Instructions:

A glass of water 2/3 full;

Place a pencil in the water;

A pencil

Make sure it is tipped to the side; Then, look through the front of the glass and notice that the pencil is bent.

Remember that a clear glass has 2 surfaces that the light passes through â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the inside surface of the glass and the outside surface of the glass.

46

Science Stars Magazine Climatology Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

The National Science Week will be hosted in all 9 provinces Here are some areas NSW will be hosted in:

Contact details of the project leader:

• West Coast NSW: West Coast District Municipality, Mr Lyndon Manas - 021 872 1573 / 083 246 3667

• North-West University (Potchefstroom): Dr Kenneth Kaunda, Prof. Jan Smit - Jan.Smit@nwu.ac.za • Giyani Science Centre: Mopani, Mr John Golele - 015 812 3782 / 073 431 0736 • The KZN Science Centre: iLembe and eThekwini Municipality, Ms Celiwe Chauca - 031 830 5379 / 084 770 3835

The National Science Week (NSW) launch will take place on Saturday, 6 August at the University of the Western Cape. The theme for 2016 is “Science for sustainable development and improved quality of life”. NSW is an annual countrywide celebration of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Innovation (STEMI) led by the Department of Science and Technology.

Draw up a study timetable.

FCB CAPE TOWN 10007095CT/E

Study tips

Don’t procrastinate!

Make flashcards, use acronyms, sing jingles - anything to help you remember.

Exercise and eat correctly to combat stress.

Use tables, flowcharts and figures - pictures can help you remember facts.

Get up a little earlier on the morning of an exam - it will allow you time to have a proper breakfast and you will feel calm when you arrive at your exam venue.

Create a study environment free from clutter and distractions.

If the workload is too big, join a study group. But make sure you actually study.

Get a decent night’s sleep. It helps with your concentration.

Go over as many past papers as you can.

Don’t postpone difficult topics when studying tackle the hard bits first.

Good luck!

At Engen, we want to give you some extra encouragement during your final exams because we understand that education is the first step to a brighter future.

That’s one of the reasons why we invest in subjects that will be of long-term value to our business and South Africa. For nearly 3 decades, Engen Maths and Science Schools have provided extra tuition to learners in grades 10 to 12 across the country. Engen wishes you every success for your final matric exams. www.engenoil.com/education