SS Science Forum Issue 17

SCIENCESTARS Issue 17 | 2017

SCIENCE FORUM

Earth Fun Facts

70% 7 billion people on Earth

4.5 10 000km

of Earth’s surface is covered in water, with the rest being land mass.

billion years old

into space is how far the Earth’s atmosphere reaches up.

97% 3%

of the water is salt water/ocean is freshwater.

The Earth itself has 3 layers - the Crust, the Mantle and the Core.

C

84% of the Earth’s volume is the Mantle, with it being 2970km thick.

17 milliseconds is how long the Earth’s rotation is gradually slowing down for, every 100 years.

23 hours, 56 minutes and 4 seconds is how long it takes for the Earth to fully rotate, not 24 hours.

365 365 and a quater days is how long the Earth takes to orbit the sun.

100 1/3 of the Earth’s surface is desert, either partially or fully.

times per second the Earth is struck by lightning - that is 8.6 million times a day.

CONTENTS CONTENTS

FEATURES

1 2 2 2 2 3 2 3

6

Reaching for the stars

3

Meet the google of incubators

6

Coding in South Africa

7

Preparing you for university

8

Polymer science postgrad shines

0

The process of desalination

7

Traces of large dinosaur in Western Lesotho

8

Natural disasters in South Africa

REGULARS

5 6 8 3 3 3 3 3

Foreword

Editor’s note

Cover story

2

Events

3 Bursaries

4

Quiz

5

Puzzles

6

ANSWERS

FOREWORD

the

FOREWORD

in our soil. How then do we continue this legacy and employ the potential of all citizens, particularly the youth?

The Department of Science & Technology (DST) will host the 3rd Science Forum South Africa (#SFSA2017) at the CSIR Convention Centre in Pretoria. The purpose of the science forum is to showcase African science as world-leading, relevant and accessible to a broad public. This year’s theme highlights the science-public interface by rallying to Ignite Conversations about Science and create open spaces to grow public science conversations about the role of science on the continent.

The program features a series of engagements by celebrated thought leaders from across the globe, in an interactive format encouraging debate. A special feature of this event is the FameLab – promoting science communication to a non-scientific audience.

The Science Forum is an important feature on the Pan-African landscape – not only for providing a platform to promote research and collaboration but also to remind us that science belongs to all and we each have a contribution to make. We carry a responsibility to make our work accessible and the obligation to ensure that research benefits those most in need – within a sustainable ecosystem for the advancement of humankind.

In a world grappling with “fake news”, promoting open-science remains an asset in combatting the negative impacts of pseudoscience. Finding solutions to climate change, drought, food insecurity and disease are the responsibility of all humanity – irrespective of

Empowering a generation through igniting conversations

the scale or scope of the solution.

With the advent of the 4th industrial revolution, the world is

For me, this is the amazing part of science: stumbling upon the

increasingly reliant on science and technology solutions. Despite

right questions, the right partners, and exploring solutions through

this, global trends indicate that public understanding of science

the promotion of curiosity.

remains low. The human-technology interface is only recently being understood and it is our shared responsibility to ensure that

The Science Forum 2017 aims to develop a population that’s curi-

the benefits of STEM investment accrue to the general public,

ous about the world we live in, create the questions we need to

cementing the contribution of science to society.

answer when building solutions that stimulates a change in thinking, and empower the next generation to change the world.

South Africa’s large youth population represents a societal asset to harness and accelerate social, economic and political development.

But all this starts with a simple conversation. So, friends, let’s start

Historically, domestic scholars have revolutionised global science

a conversation.

– with advances such as the CAT scan, heart transplants, fuel-from-

Dr Saahier Parker Chief Researcher at the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC)

coal technology and prepaid telephone services all have their roots

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5

ED’S NOTE

team Science Stars

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Editor • Nadine Sims

Embracing Science

As we draw the curtains on 2017, we dedicate this issue of Science Stars to one of the biggest science events held in South Africa, Science Forum.

The event, which took place on the 7-8 December, was held in Pretoria and brought together 2000 participants. Different industry role players, including students, scientists and various government departments were all present, allowing for an open discussion about science in South Africa.

Read more about that on page 8.

Currently in its third year, the event is a great platform for engaging and debating the role of science, technology and innovation in our society.

Opening up discussions about science is also our mandate at Science Stars. We are aware that STEM can be intimidating and this may be why many students don’t consider venturing into those career fields. That is exactly why we are here, to promote the study and make science accessible to all.

Graphic designers • Cinzia-Joey Swartz Contributing writers • Moeketsi Tigeli • Nicole Ludolph • Bongeka Mnotoza • Veronica Mohapeloa • Wilda Fourie-Basson Chairman • Madambi Rambuda Ambassador • Prof. Azwindinni Muronga Sales & Marketing Rep • Ntombizanele Thangayi Subscriptions • info@sciencestars.co.za Copyright 2017 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.

Many of you may be starting university for the first time next year, and your anxiety levels may be high in anticipation. We have put together an informative article about how to prepare for university and what you can expect in your first year, on page 27.

I hope you enjoy this final edition of Science Stars for 2017. And I hope that this year, we have inspired you to not look at science as something intimidating and difficult to understand, but rather, to embrace it.

Happy holidays, and stay safe!

Nadine Sims Editor

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

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COVER STORY

Science Forum

South Africa

Africa must participate in the Fourth Industrial Revolution By: Taslima Viljoen

T

he next industrial revolution must be inclusive and the

He said, it provides a platform to sharpen public debate on

science community must ensure that young people are

the role of science in the lives of people and how, through

empowered to participate, said Deputy President Cyril

cooperation and partnerships, we can collectively advance the

Ramaphosa.

practice of science.

The Deputy President addressed thousands of people who packed the CSIR for the first day of the Science Forum South

“By breaking down barriers and challenging hierarchies in

Africa (SFSA). The Deputy President joined Department of

the science community, it has come to represent collegiality,

Science and Technology Naledi Pandor for the opening cer-

collaboration and inclusivity among participants and contribu-

emony in Pretoria on the 7 December.

tors,” said Ramaphosa.

The Deputy President said the SFSA is working to advance

He added that, “SFSA must rekindle hope in a world of unend-

Pan-African cooperation in science and technology to advance

ing possibilities, a world where imagination, innovation and

regional integration, peace, social cohesion, inclusive develop-

scientific discovery allows us to dream of a better, more

ment and global partnerships.

secure and equitable future.”

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COVER STORY

He said, a community of young people that believe there is a

we need to take action to enable young people to participate.

future for science in South Africa and on the continent, must

“In a rapidly changing global economy, our continent must

be developed.

invest in the development of young scientists to reap the economic and social benefits of the fourth industrial revolution.

“We must ensure that the youth see themselves as agents of

The next industrial revolution must be inclusive,” he said.

development, working to redesign the urban environment,

“It is up to us to ensure that Africans are not treated only as

expanding transport networks and building new, more sus-

consumers of technology, but also as developers and manag-

tainable human settlements.”

ers of innovation.”

The Deputy President called on the science community to

The Deputy President stressed the need to make science work

partner with young entrepreneurs to support the develop-

for the benefit of society. He said that in a world challenged

ment and sustainability of innovative businesses.

by dwindling resources and rising inequality between individuals and among nations, the scientific enterprise cannot be

He said, the Fourth Industrial Revolution is here with us and

indifferent to the needs of humanity.

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COVER STORY

“The many challenges we face – from

tionally, and that groundbreaking research

agenda and South Africa is committed to

pandemics and food insecurity to poverty

is enabled.

playing its part in contributing to devel-

and climate change – require a concerted

oping Africa’s capacities for science and

response from the global science

Third, to showcase African science and

technology. “I’m confident that our Forum

community.”

technology to the world. Too little is

will help to foster a continental consensus

known about the tremendous contributions

on the critical role of science in African

He added that no country or research

African scientists make towards global

society.”

group can work or succeed alone.

science. We have a rich and diverse port-

Resources need to be pooled and expertise

folio of international collaboration but in

Over the next two days several panel dis-

shared.

our fast-changing world, we need to work

cussions will be held on a variety of sci-

with even more energy to profile African

ence, technology and innovation topics, as

In her address, Minister Pandor said that

countries as reliable partners of choice for

well as interesting science talks. Science

South Africa has tried to put in place the

global scientific cooperation.

councils, embassies and several other

best science and technology policies. “We

organisations are also exhibiting locally

focus on promoting specific areas for

Minister Pandor, said science is an integral

developed technologies.

R&D - astronomy, energy, bio economy - in

part of Africa’s growth and development

For more information visit www.sfsa.co.za

which we are becoming world leaders.

We invest in knowledge-based activities that are driven by the quality of the scientists we train, the quality of our research and development infrastructure, and the enablers we have put in place to turn scientific research into technology.’’

With the African Union Commissioner for Human Resources, Science and Technology and the CEO of the NEPAD Planning and Coordinating Agency, as well as Ministers from Angola, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Jamaica, Namibia, Uganda and Swaziland, in attendance.

The Minister said that the Science Forum South Africa is already regarded as one of Africa’s premier platforms for public debate on science.

She outlined the objectives of SFSA as follows: First, to put science at the service of African society. It is through science that many of the challenges faced by our communities can be addressed.

Second, to promote international collaboration. It is through collaboration that ties are strengthened, that science not only becomes stronger in Africa, but interna10

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

SMALL THINGS AMUSE

GREAT MINDS

“If I want to be a successful leader, I need to lead by example.” PRof SUPRAkAS SINHA RAy As chief researcher in the field of polymer nanocomposites at the National Centre for Nano-structured Materials at the CSIR, Suprakas is not only a thought-leader but also a brilliant team manager. Suprakas deals with molecules thousands of times smaller than the width of a human hair, fiddling with their structure to make them stronger, lighter and even more fire-resistant. Rated one of the top 100 chemists in the world, Suprakas is a great asset to the CSIR and industry in South Africa.

BRIGHT yoUNG SCIENTISTS BEHIND ideas that work. www.csirideasthatwork.co.za

PROFILE

Changing the perception of Science

I

n 1999, a teacher introduced the world of Astronomy and space-travelling to his youthful grade 8 class in rural

KwaNongoma in KwaZulu-Natal. Little did he know that, among his humble crop of pupils, he sparked a Science flame in the then-12-year-old Sinamile Masango.

Fast-forward to 2017, Masango is now a 30-year-old scientist and is complet-

ing her Masters in Nuclear Physics at the University of the Western Cape (UWC). She reflects on her decision to study and says, “I remembered that my father taught us that education is always the bigger plan.”

Having started university at 16, Masango didn’t have it all planned out and recalls what it meant to her at that tender age, “To me, university was more freedom.”

With great freedom, comes great responsibility, and Masango subsequently says going to university for her, as early as she did was not the best option, admitting that she was too young. She also urges prospective young students to consider taking a gap year to reevaluate their plan.

Masango returned to varsity and com-

SENAMILE MASANGO’S

WISE WORDS

pleted her undergraduate studies, began working as a trainee engineer at a con-

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By: Moeketsi Tigeli

PROFILE

sulting firm in KwaZulu-Natal, and worked

in Science and Engineering Africa (WISE

“It’s all in the mind. Politicians, teach-

her way to the junior project manager

Africa) to groom women interested in

ers and parents must change this (fear

position in the space of just five years.

Science, and to counter the shortage

of failure) mindset and plant the seed

of women in the fields of Science and

of Science in our children,” she says.

Upon beginning her studies at UWC, she

Engineering. She explains, “As a woman,

Speaking about the inferiority complex

met her supervisor Professor Nico Orce,

you are told you can’t do this or that, and

towards Science education, she says, “As

who had successfully submitted an experi-

women have reduced themselves to fit

South Africans, we can break those barri-

ment proposal to the coveted European

these descriptions.”

ers, and we can do whatever they can do.”

Alluding our shortcomings in Science edu-

Through her organisation and experience,

Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Switzerland.

cation at schools, she says, “For me, I still

Masango wishes to change the mental-

As part of the team (and the only female

have to fill in the gaps by going back to

ity around Science conversations. She

involved), Masango later became the first

the foundation and the way Science was

strongly believes a change in approach is

black African woman to lead and conduct

introduced to me. As South Africans, we are

needed. “Just explaining physics to kids

research at the centre – a feat that result-

afraid of learning and failing Science, and

doesn’t help; you need to motivate their

ed in her being honoured by President

it’s clear in the way we speak about it.”

minds into believing: ‘Oh! I can do this!’”

Jacob Zuma.

Speaking about her time in Switzerland, Masango says, “It was so motivating to be at CERN. The environment and the culture at CERN is inspiring… people are so principled and focused.” Comparing the experience to her work back home, “Again, as a scientist, I realised that their level and ours is completely different” she said.

Masango’s time at CERN gave her reason to reflect on her journey, “I was so happy that even a black child that is coming from a disadvantaged area in terms of institutions, you can make it one of the best facilities in the whole world! CERN is every scientist’s dream and you’ll find the answers to every question you’ve ever asked there.”

In efforts to give back to her community, Masango founded an NGO called Women

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13

DST

ICT BOOST NEEDED IN SCHOOLS ACROSS SOUTH AFRICA Improving education through technology

T

he private sector needs to part-

progress, and gaps in key sectors of the

Chief Economist and council member,

ner with government in providing

economy, such as education, mining and

Dr Azar Jammine, said that South Africa

digital technologies to schools in

manufacturing.

should seize the opportunities and ben-

a bid improve the standard of education countrywide.

efits of digitisation and the fourth indusAccording to the STI report, the percentage

trial revolution.

of matric learners who passed mathematThis is according to Jamie Martin, founder

ics and physical science with at least 50%

With the report, showing that the number

and CEO of Injini, EdTech Incubator, an

remains low. The proportion of matric

of internet users per 100 people increas-

organisation aimed at empowering teach-

female learners passing mathematics and

ing, Dr Jammine said digital technology

ers, entrepreneurs and individual citizens

physics with at least 60% has been declin-

could help improve the country’s educa-

to improve education through technology.

ing from 2008 to 2016.

tion system.

and business to collaborate to improve the

Unsurprisingly, the undergraduate percent-

NACI also demonstrated the newly

quality of education.

age SET enrolment has remained stagnant

launched the National STI portal that

between 2005 (29.4%) and 2015 (29.7%).

will serve as a credible central repository

“Education will be the great engine of

Notwithstanding, at the postgraduate

for innovation-related data. The portal

Africa’s future development. It is therefore

level, the proportion of science engineer-

brings relevant STI data and information

important to empower people to improve

ing and technology (SET) enrolment as a

together into a single repository, giving

education through technology in order

percentage of total student enrolments has

stakeholders a central point of access to

to realise the huge potential for richer

increased between 2005 and 2015.

the information in the NSI.

He said it was imperative for government

economies and stronger societies across the continent.”

“If we are serious about raising standards, about extending opportunities and particularly serious about doing it for the poor and valuable people who need it the most, we have to take advantage of the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation that is so rich in the country,” said Martin.

Martin was among the stakeholders including academics, business and government, participating in the National Advisory council on Innovation (NACI) provincial roadshow in Cape Town.

NACI hosted the workshop following the release of the latest Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Indicators report.

Released in Pretoria, it identified areas of

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

Armscor promotes a culture of learning Armscor is the acquisition agency for the Department of Defence and other organs of state. Driven by our vision to be the premier defence technology and acquisition service provider for the South African Government and our allies on the African continent and beyond, Armscor continues to drive creativity and innovation in both the defence and commercial environments, in collaboration with our strategic partners.

Armscor advocates for the growth and empowerment of women, thus to date, the number of women in strategic positions in the organisation has sharply risen, including those in the technical fields such as Engineering and Science.

Owing to its commitment to attract and retain the best talent in the organisation, Armscor has a Talent Development Programme (TDP), which is aimed at developing, equipping and empowering interns for opportunities within the defence and aerospace environment.

Science trainee at Armscor: Lucia Mogashoa Born with an inquisitive instinct, Lucia always wanted to analyse and find out about how things are made. She studied BSc Chemistry because she realised that chemistry is the central science and she can easily branch out to other science and engineering fields later.

Only when she started working that she has realised that the defence industry was more than the physical protection of the country and its citizens; she has found that the industry is also about helping the country in general where needed. Her passion for science and curiosity is driving her to learn more about robotics and how life is advancing in terms of technology and this is beneficial considering that some jobs are too dangerous to be done by humans. She believes that with passion and excellence it is possible to make chemistry a career. She is an adrenaline junkie in her spare time and her wish is to travel the world.

Follow us on:

To be part of the TDP, students must send their latest CV and transcript to tdp@armscor.co.za

CONTACT US Corporate Communication Private Bag X337, Pretoria, 0001, Republic of South Africa Tel: +27 (0) 12 428 1911 E-mail: Info@armscor.co.za www.armscor.co.za

REACHING FOR THE STARS Placing Africa on the global scientific map

O

By: Nadine Sims

n 18 October, Minister Naledi Pandor and Northern

The importance of this is huge for South Africa – as Minister

Cape Premier, Sylvia Lucas, officially opened the new

Pandor explained: “We now have the capability for researchers

80km road leading from Carnarvon to the core Square

to come from all over the world, to our country, to actually carry

Kilometre Array (SKA) site.

out significant research. So, we are placing Africa on the Global scientific map.

The cutting-of-the-ribbon ceremony was followed by a community imbizo and the Minister and Premier were able to answer

“For the first time, through the MeerKAT, we have over 500

questions and address concerns held by the community. There

research groups from 45 different countries coming to use an

was also a Science exhibition where the children could interact

instrument located in our country,” she said.

and explore the exciting concepts.

What is SKA?

What training takes place?

The SKA site also consists of a training facility and centre, where

SKA is situated in the Northern Cape, and once it’s completed, it

young artisans are trained. Most of the artisans come from the

will be the largest radio telescope in the world. The MeerKAT is

local surrounding communities, including Carnarvon and Williston.

expected to be fully integrated by March 2018.

This year will see six students receive an electrical engineering qualification, and next there will be seven graduates.

The telescope is located in the Karoo because of the clear skies and absence of any light pollution, which are all essential to the

“Hosting research infrastructure of this kind, we are going to train

research and exploration of our skies.

new engineers, astrophysicists and IT specialists. We are giving young people a perspective on their future that they would not

Why is it important?

have, had this instrument not have been located in the Northern

It’s not only a South African-based project; there are many other

Cape. They will meet scientists from all over the world and have

African and International countries that we are collaborating

an international sense of science,” says Minister Pandor.

within the development of the MeerKAT.

For more information about the SKA, turn to page 18.

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17

DST

AFRICAN MEGASCIENCE PROJECT Square Kilometre Array By: Veronica Mohapeloa under construction in the Northern Cape, outside the town of Carnarvon.

As part of the SKA project, the DST is constructing the MeerKAT telescope, an array of 64 dishes, scheduled for completion by next March. Engineering and construction on the MeerKAT have been progressing well, with the first set of 16 antennas connected into an array, known as Array Release 1 (AR1), launched in June 2017.

In order to build MeerKAT, SKA SA developed the engineering testbed KAT-7 (Karoo Array Telescope) with seven dishes spread over 200 metres producing the first radio images of galaxies in 2012.

The Science, Technology and Engineering involved in the building of what will be the world’s most sensitive telescope is so

A

frica’s share of the global megasci-

Scientists expect that the SKA will make

phenomenal that the head of the opera-

ence project, the Square Kilometre

new discoveries unimaginable at present.

tions at the SKA Office based in Cape

Array (SKA) radio telescope, means

that the continent is set to become a

Town, Dr Lindsay Magnus, says the project The SKA will collect and process vast

will be able to give answers to “big astro-

sought-after Science destination. Over the

amounts of data and will stimulate cut-

nomical questions”.

next few decades, many of the world’s top

ting-edge advances in high-performance

scientists and research students will visit

computing. After the International Space

“The MeerKAT project is looking at how

South Africa to carry out cutting-edge

Station and the Large Hadron Collider, the

galaxies have evolved and is testing vari-

work in the field.

SKA is the world’s next great Science proj-

ous theories that will make us see things

ect. It is anticipated that the SKA will help

in a different way,” said Dr Magnus.

Scientists will use the SKA, a project of

answer some of the world’s biggest mys-

the Department of Science and Technology

teries, such as the origins of the universe.

(DST), to try and understand how the

Not only is this project exciting the global scientific community, it is also making a

universe evolved, how stars and galaxies

The megascience project, hosted in Africa

huge impact in the lives of the people

form and change, and to unravel the mys-

and Australia, is set to be completed by

in and around Carnarvon, Williston and

teries of “dark matter” and “dark energy”.

2050. South Africa’s share of the project is

Vanwyksvlei.

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GADGETS

5 BEST

It is argued that technological innovation has reached a ceiling, with companies merely repackaging old products

GADGETS OF 2017 Today’s innovation; tomorrow’s norm By: Moeketsi Tigeli

and selling them off at ridiculous prices.

We did, however, manage to find some gems and put together the five best gadgets to come out in 2017.

Microsoft Hololens With a price tag of R50 000 it’s no surprise that the Hololens is the best virtual reality product on the market.

Microsoft’s Emma Watch

The platform can impressively display virtual images in the real world, enabling

Kuri, the robot nanny

Microsoft’s Emma Watch

you to interact, create as well as explore.

Microsoft released a groundbreak-

This gadget’s capabilities have earned

ing watch that can stop people with

it the title of world’s first self-contained

Parkinson’s disease from experiencing

holographic computer.

tremors by sending vibrations through the

Kuri, the robot nanny

user’s wrist to help halt the shakes caused

Mayfield Robotics have assembled what

by the neurological disease.

can only be described as an adorable robot for your own personal home use.

The tech giant says the key element lies in the disruptive vibrations that affect the

Microsoft Hololens

Kuri, the robot nanny, is equipped with an

loop of feedback between the brain and

HD camera, Bluetooth connection for your

wrist. It is reported to assist patients with

Polaroid Pop

music playlist, and WiFi to set reminders,

abilities such as precision drawing, which

Polaroid has released a tiny portable cam-

play audiobooks, podcasts and inform you

some patients struggle with.

era that instantly prints out photographs.

The handy tool is fun for creating

about the weather. The design is userfriendly with smooth finishes. It doesn’t

‘Iron Man’ suit

hurt that Kuri smiles either.

With six mini jet engines and an exoskel-

mementos on the go.

eton cover, Richard Browning has invented a flying suit that has led to him being dubbed ‘iron man’. Unveiled in Canada, Browning mesmerised TED fellows when he reportedly hovered in the air for about one minute.

The suit was built for a project by the British army in efforts to enhance their ‘Iron Man’ suit

defence. Let’s hope they don’t plan on using it on anyone anytime soon.

Polaroid Pop

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IGNITING CONVERSATIONS ABOUT SCIENCE SFSA 2017 ends on High Note By: Veronica Mohapeloa capacities significantly, with close to 200 eminent researchers chairs at universities around the country, significantly increasing and improving research output and providing valuable impetus to advanced researcher training.

“There was a strong call at the Forum for governments to invest in science and innovation in Africa and to develop robust national systems of innovation. Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa tasked us to design innovation systems that encourage young people to turn ideas into products and services,” said the Minister.

T

he Minister of Science and

profile of African science and enhance the

Technology Naledi Pandor, believes

continent’s science prowess on the global

In response to the Deputy President’s call,

Africa should host the prestigious

stage.

the DST will strategically leverage South

World Science Forum in 2021 as it will not

Africa’s current leadership of the Southern

only advance science on the continent but

In a bid to boost the training of the next

African Development Community (SADC)

globally as well.

generation of scientists and researchers on

to support the development of national

the continent, the Minister announced the

and regional innovation systems.

Minister Pandor spoke during the closing

establishment of five new research chairs

of the highly successful third installment

at universities around Africa, in commemo-

“As political support and appreciation of

of the Science Forum South Africa, that

ration of the 100th year anniversary of the

science is critical, the DST as a first step

attracted over 2000 researchers, academ-

birth of Oliver Tambo.

in partnering with UNESCO, would also

ics, and scientists mainly from around this continent this year.

facilitate a science and technology policy Discussions were advanced between the

orientation course for parliamentarians,

Department of Science and Technology

early in 2018 – in anticipation of a signifi-

The Minister said the Department of

(DST) and the Oliver Tambo family and

cant rise in the number of parliamentar-

Science and Technology would begin talks

foundation, to create the programme based

ians participating in next year’s Forum,”

with the Hungarian Academy of Science

on the South African Research Chairs

she said.

and other organisers of the World Science

model.

Forum.

The closing ceremony also saw Science

The Minister said the hosting of such an

The Research Chairs Initiative has enriched

Diplomacy Awards conferred on several

international event would further raise the

South Africa’s science and technology

scientists from the African continent.

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TECHNOLOGY

MEET THE GOOGLE

OF INCUBATORS Propella Business Incubator

T

By: Bongeka Mnotoza

he Propella Business Incubator

Propella believes that even after an entre-

“Each individual should strive to be better

provides support for start-up busi-

preneur is equipped with the best business

than they were the previous day. If you do

nesses and is known for being

tools, the entrepreneur still needs further

not how to get to where you want to be

a high-tech incubator for SMART city.

support. Propella Business Incubator is

as an entrepreneur, do research and never

Through the use of information and tech-

home to disruptive technology, out-of-the-

stop asking questions. Always ensure that

nology, the incubator positively improves

box thinking, sustainable products and

you are consistent and persistent when

the efficiency of products and services

services, while creating jobs.

it comes to your work. Remember, we are

through change and growth in the lives of the country’s citizens.

all born to be great,’’ says Anita Palmer, On 23 October, Propella invited 20 start-up

Propella Business Incubator Manager.

entrepreneurs to participate in the Telkom As an incubator driven by success, Propella

Future Makers’ programme, which is open

Propella prides itself on its SMART

aims to be the first choice in commer-

to anyone that is interested in learning

city initiative and one of its incubates,

cialising SMART products and services. To

and being SMART for a period of eight

Hendrick Williams, designed a SMART

achieve this, Propella provides support to

weeks.

parking model for disabled people. The

its incubates (the entrepreneurs) through

SMART parking model has a sensor if a

an evaluation process, during which their

This programme is designed to assist each

non-disabled person parks next to this

ideas and business models are evaluated.

candidate by giving them an opportunity

SMART parking model, a red light will

to gain exposure through mentorship.

start flashing or a loud siren will ring. This

Thereafter, the incubator works closely

Candidates attend workshops, assessments

is done through an app that connects your

with the incubates by mentoring, sup-

and business advisor sessions.

smartphone to the SMART parking model.

porting and assisting them with research,

The incubator also supports community

Propella Business Incubator is also plan-

which grants them an opportunity to

awareness programmes such as the Nelson

ning a SMART city ‘’theme park’’ where

network and meet other entrepreneurs in

Mandela University (NMU) Young Women,

children can visit the incubator. Having a

their industry.

which provides computer literacy skills

SMART academy is also in the incubator’s

over a two-day workshop for grade 11 and

plans for success, to ensure that the incu-

12 learners.

bator is available virtually.

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

23

QOBOQOBO School shoes & stationery drive A pair of school shoes can determine whether a child stays in school or drops out.

Primary schools = 25

75%

of age group is 0 to 14

74%

Unemployment

86%

household have no income

60% of households with income earn less than R1600 which is below the poverty line

Do something today that your future self will thank you for!!!

Join the Qoboqobo school shoes and stationery drive today Shoe sizes: 1 to 5 Please deliver before 26 December 2017 by 5pm Contact Sibongile for details and donations: 083 264 3462

PROFILE

SELF-TAUGHT COMPUTER WIZ Ramochaki Matthews Shale offering IT solutions By: Moeketsi Tigeli

B

orn in Maseru, Lesotho, 24-year-old

land, Shale says, “At the end of my first year

GoReefers Transport App. “It assists drivers

software developer and part-time

at university, I topped my whole class in

with container validation, and it can cap-

photographer Ramochaki Matthews

programming – that’s where my strengths

ture weight, seal numbers and allow for

have always been.”

event tracking,” he explains.

approach to IT would quickly earn him

In Cape Town Shale made his way to the

Essentially, drivers are able to control

a job at an Information Technology firm,

Richfield Institute of Technology (RIT),

the number of trips they make through a

where he develops websites and creates

where he did Basic IT and PC training.

“reject or accept push-notification”.

App solutions for an array of companies.

Come graduation, Shale won most out-

Shale came to Cape Town in hopes of achieving his dreams. His creative

On his choice to take up Information

standing student for the two years he

In South Africa, truck accidents occur

spent at RIT.

frequently and are often unaccounted for, and this application allows for transpar-

Technology, Shale recalls a deep-lying talent since his high-school days. “Essentially,

His remarkable self-taught climb up the IT

ency. “Every update a driver makes on

throughout high school, I’d always get first

ladder began in his spare time, he says.

GoReefers, whether it’s a comment to

place in IT and it came to a point where

“I started building from the scope I already

subject company about a late delivery

I decided this was the thing for me.”

had via documentation and YouTube videos

or a report on depot delays, it automati-

After finishing high school in 2012

to a point where I had built a portfolio and

cally goes to the database and a push-

Shale enrolled for a degree in Computer

garnered some clients of my own.”

notification is delivered to the respective company,” he says.

Sciences at the National University of Lesotho (NUL).

Talking about his schooling in his home-

Nicknamed ‘Chuck’ by his mates, Shale has developed a booking application similar to

To have a look at Shale’s portfolio, visit

a RSVP mechanism for truck drivers, called

chuckshale.co.za

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

25

CODING

CODING IN SOUTH AFRICA Where to get started By: Nicole Ludolph We are living in the Digital Age, with technology evolving faster than it ever has before. Computers, cell phones and other digital technologies have become integral to our lives and with these technologies come new, non-traditional career opportunities.

Coding is one of those opportunities. In simple terms, coding is what allows us to create computer software, applications and websites. It is the instructions computer programmers put into computers or mobile devices to tell it what to do.

If you are interested in learning how to code, have a look at the list of organisations below, teaching coding in South Africa.

invited to a month-long selection boot camp, after which only the top candidates are selected.

Hour of Code

You can find more information at wethinkcode.co.za

Hour of Code is a website created for learners, with the aim of increasing participation in computer science in schools. The

Damelin College

website is an offshoot of Code.org, whose vision is “that every

Damelin College offers a diploma in Information Technology

student in every school should have the opportunity to learn

and has branches across the country. The 3-year course has the

computer science”. The website provides activities students can

option of studying part-time.

do to learn to code and resources for further study.

Apply at damelin.co.za/courses

Find out more at hourofcode.co.za

Universities

codeX

Traditional Sout African universities, such as Wits University

Based in Cape Town, codeX offers a year-long, full-time coding

and the University of Stellenbosch, have also branched into the

course for those interested in software development. Students

Information Technology sector and offer undergraduate and

at codeX manage the pace of their own learning, with mentors

postgraduate degrees in Computer Science.

acting as guides in their learning process.

For more information, visit the website at projectcodex.co

Their undergraduate programmes range between three and four years and are offered on a full-time basis.

We Think Code Offering a two-year, full-time coding course for people between

In South Africa, the demand for digital products, especially cell

the ages of 17 and 35, We Think Code is based in Johannesburg.

phones, continues to grow. There has never been a better time

Prospective students need to play an online application game

to learn to code, so if you’re interested, head over to one of the

to apply, and those who pass the game requirements are then

above-mentioned websites and start applying now.

26

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

TERTIARY STUDIES

PREPARING YOU FOR UNIVERSITY A 5-step-guide

By: Moeketsi Tigeli

A

ttending university is an exciting prospect – independence, a better life for yourself, meeting new friends, and some of the best memories of your life await. But there’s

also the angst that comes with stepping into the unknown.

To help navigate through this important time of your life, we’ve provided a comprehensive 5-step guide to preparing you for your time at university.

Step 1: Choose a career and stick with it Identify your choice of study before you apply. Institutions typically offer two or three career choices when applying.

Universities allow course changes while studying, in case you want a different challenge. This is not advised, but if

Step 2: Research universities Institutions that specialise in your field of choice will afford you the best learning experience.

As a prospective student, you must familiarise yourself with university issued prospectuses. These documents are clear guidelines on what the university offers career-wise, what subjects each qualification has, and the period it takes to attain your preferred qualification.

Prospectuses can be downloaded on any University’s website or sent via post upon request.

you absolutely have to, be clinical about your next choice.

Consider a gap year if you are uncertain.

Step 4: Tracking application status There are millions of university hopefuls, you should keep track of your application status by frequently making calls to the administration.

Step 3: Apply, apply, apply!

There are 26 universities in South Africa, apply to as many as you can. Applying in grade 11 means you can spend your matric year concentrating on getting the best marks to attain bursaries and entrance. APS (Admission Point

Some Institutions create online portals for prospective students to keep them informed on developments.

Do not assume you’ve been accepted, that can only be determined by your final matric results.

Score) is a system that helps identify which career you’re eligible for by calculating your marks to determine how many points you have. This can be accessed on university websites.

Step 5: Orientation Once accepted, learn about the institution you’ll attend. A walk-about to familiarise yourself with different departments and residences is good for creating friendships.

Be friendly to other students. Do not be afraid to ask questions confidently, and seek out mentors via different university platforms.

Most of all, keep in mind why you are there in the first place.

POLYMER SCIENCE

POLYMER SCIENCE POSTGRAD SHINES By: Wiida Fourie-Basson

Inspiring student wins award

“Few people at the age of 17 know what

This degree was followed by an MSc in the

In 2017, Radebe presented a poster on her

they want to do for the rest of their lives.

same field, focusing on two highly special-

research at an international conference in

I only knew that I wanted to go to uni-

ised techniques, namely thermal field-flow

Austria, and walked away with the presti-

versity,” says Nonkululeko Radebe, a post-

fractionation and Fourier Transform infra-

gious Borealis Poster Award. “I want to be

graduate student in Polymer Science at

red spectroscopy, to determine the struc-

in a position where I can put more effort

Stellenbosch University (SU).

tural properties of complex polymers in

into investing in women to study Science.

terms of their molecular weight distribu-

There needs to be systematic changes

tion and chemical composition distribution.

that will allow racial and gender diversity

“When I was in grade 9, my Natural Sciences teacher advised me not to pursue

in Science,” she says

Science any further. I ignored her and took

“Understanding the structural properties

Science anyways. It turned out that I had a

of polymeric materials is imperative to the

For more information on your study

knack for calculating bond energies,

development of new products. The data

options in the Faculty of Science at US,

I wanted to know and understand the

can be used for quality control purposes,

contact Ntsiki Langa, recruitment and

periodic table of elements and I was inter-

comparison of supplier materials and

marketing officer, at 021 808 2681 or

ested in finding out ‘nerdy’ stuff like why

design of production lines.”

nalanga@sun.ac.za.

the sky is blue and why salt melts ice.”

After matriculating in 2011, Radebe applied at several universities for programmes ranging from Law to Accounting and Engineering. She was accepted for a BSc in Chemistry and Polymer Science at SU and decided to study there.

In her third year of study, she developed an interest in Polymer Science. “I realised that polymers are a big part of our everyday lives. Polymers are in our face creams, our cars’ tires, faux leather seats and dashboard, cell phone covers, food packaging, soles of our shoes, and so much more.

I subsequently worked night and day to get a place in the honours group.”

28

In December 2017 Nonkululeko Radebe will graduate with an MSc in polymer science (cum laude).

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

DESALINATION

THE PROCESS OF DESALINATION A possible solution to the ongoing water crisis

I

By: Nicole Ludolph

Energy

n November 2015, the City of

Reverse Osmosis

Johannesburg implemented level 2 water restrictions due to the lack of

Fresh water

rainfall in Gauteng. Around the same time, parts of KwaZulu-Natal were almost completely devoid of water and reservoir

Ocean

levels were almost 20% less than the previous year in the Western Cape.

PreTreatment

Fast forward to 2017, and Cape Town is

Debrine

experiencing its worst drought in over a century. The City of Cape Town has imposed level 5 water restrictions, and

ways to manage the crisis, with desalina-

mal desalination – all three are depen-

with the rainy season almost over, resi-

tion listed as a possible solution.

dant on various degrees of heat, which

dents will face their toughest summer yet.

is why it is sometimes associated with

South Africa is in the grip of a water crisis,

What is desalination?

with the drop in rainfall and increase in

In simple terms, desalination is removing

temperatures attributed to climate change.

salt and other minerals from seawater.

The drawbacks of desalination

This has prompted discussions around

There are several methods of desalination,

While desalination provides a source of

such as distillation, reverse osmosis and

water not dependant on rainfall, it does

thermal desalination.

have other drawbacks. For example, dis-

power plants.

tillation and certain types of thermal Distillation is the oldest known method of

desalination are dependant on energy. An

desalination and occurs when seawater is

increase in energy usage is bad for the

boiled. The steam from the boiled water is

planet, as it increases the levels of carbon

then condensed.

emissions into the atmosphere. Increased carbon emissions worsen climate change.

Reverse Osmosis pushes seawater through

Renewable energy like wind energy can

semipermeable membranes at high pres-

be used instead but would increase costs.

sure. The membranes allow the water to move through it, while the salt molecules

Desalination in SA

are kept behind. The salt is thus separated

Cape Town is predicted to run out of water

from seawater.

by March 2018. The City of Cape Town has decided to build eight desalination plants

30

Thermal desalination imitates the natural

across the Western Cape, starting con-

water cycle. There are three types of ther-

struction in November 2017.

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

DISCOVERY

TRACES OF LARGE DINOSAUR

IN WESTERN LESOTHO A Megatheropod discovery

T

By: Moeketsi Tigeli

he University of Cape Town recently

“The Elliot Formation” and it is made up

Jurassic upper Elliot Formation, and thus

released a statement documenting

of limestone, sandstone, and mudstone.

were made after the end-Triassic mass

the discovery of very large dinosaur

In the past, dinosaur fossil discoveries

extinction event (ETE).”

footprints found in Roma Valley, near the

such as the Prosauropod dinosaur and the

National University of Lesotho in Western

Massospondylus (one of the first dinosaurs

The Triassic time period that occurred 200

Lesotho by a group of scientists.

to have been named) were unearthed on

years ago, and is said to have signalled

the upper Elliot Formation.

the rise of dinosaurs. The megatheropod

The discovery was made by scientists from

trackway site is believed to indicate the

universities in South Africa, Brazil and the

“The tracks are preserved on ripple marked,

first occurrence of very large carnivorous

United Kingdom, and reveals evidence of

very fine-grained sandstone of the Lower

dinosaurs, estimated at 8-9m in length.

a large carnivorous dinosaur believed to have roamed Southern Africa 200 million years ago.

Scientifically termed Ambrokholohali, the discovery was named in honour of Emeritus Professor David Ambrose and his documented traces of fossils in the Roma Valley area of Lesotho, wrote Lara Sciscio, author of the journal article.

This is an important discovery because it has similar characteristics to the early Jurassic, as well as early to middle Cretaceous eras, where dinosaurs were believed to have been much smaller and only started growing some 120 million years ago.

There are no records of dinosaur discoveries that big on this side of the planet. “The 3-toed tracks are 57cm long, 50cm wide and have no Southern Hemisphere equivalent,” read the statement.

Lesotho and South Africa share an interesting geological rock formation called

Image credit: Dr Fabien Knoll

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

31

EVENTS

SCIENCE CALENDAR Events to look forward to in 2018 SciFest 7 - 13 March

MAR 7-13

SciFest is South Africa’s very own National Science Festival

AstroQuiz

and Africa’s largest science festival. The annual event was

October

OCT

established in 1996, to promote awareness around Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), in South

This live, action-filled competition is aimed at Grade 7 learn-

Africa. In 2017 the festival offered an interactive programme

ers who are interested in Astronomy. Coordinated and man-

and saw 58 exhibitions and more than 700 events. If 2017 is

aged by SAASTA, the competition seeks to improve aware-

anything to go by, 2018 is sure to be bigger and better.

ness, interest and understanding in Astronomy. The provincial rounds take place from May through to August, with the Finals in October. For entry guidelines, visit saasta.ac.za

National Science Olympiad June/July holidays

JUN/ JULY

This exciting event is offered to learners in grades 10 - 12.

The students have the opportunity to compete against other students from SADC countries like Lesotho, Zimbabwe and Namibia, and the top national performers will win a trip to the International Youth Science Forum, in either London or Australia.

Eskom Expo October

OCT

The expo is specifically targeted at young school learners that are aspiring scientists. The expo always has a huge turnout, with hundreds of hopefuls. The expo happens at a provincial level from July - August and then the best of the best go through to compete at the National Expo.

National Science Week August

AUG

This exciting week-long event, brought to you by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), usually commences in the first week of August. Each year a different theme is chosen and interactive activities take place during the week long celebration. The event takes is countrywide, so be sure to look out for what’s happening in your province.

32

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

BURSARIES

BURSARIES 2018 Young Leaders

Funding the future

Field of study: • Engineering • Construction • Accounting • Medical • Technology

AfriSam Field of Study: • Mining – Engineering • Civil – Engineering

• Computer Science

• Finance

Application:

• Artisans

Candidates must be in their first year of studying at the University of Cape Town (UCT) or the University of Pretoria (UP).

Applicants from UP should email: Apply.UP@dellyoungleaders.org and applicants from UCT should email:

• Marketing

National Youth Development Agency Field of Study: • Nuclear

Application:

• Engineering • Mining Industry

The documentation and other require-

• Health Care

ments and application details can be

• Science

found on afrisam.co.za.

• Agriculture

Closing date: End of January

• IT Industries

Apply.UCT@dellyoungleaders.org

• Accounting

Closing date: Not stipulated

• Aerospace Industry • ICT

SAPPI National Skills Fund

Field of Study:

• Pharmacy

Field of Study:

• Chemical Engineering

Application:

• Software Development

• Electrical Engineering

Candidates must be younger than 25 years

• Civil Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering

old. Application forms can be downloaded

• Civil Engineering Technician

• Built Environment

from the website nyda.gov.za or col-

• Chemical Engineering

• Forestry

lected at any National Youth Development

• Electrical Engineering

• Paper Technology

Agency. Documentation must be deliv-

• Electrical Technician

• Pulp Technology

ered to: The NYDA Bursary Program, 11

• Rock Engineering

• Information Technology

Broadwalk Avenue, Halfway House, 1685.

• Rock Technician

Application:

Application:

For more visit sappi.com/careers-hub-sa.

Online applications are not available and

Include latest school results and a certi-

candidates need to contact the Higher

fied copy of your ID, CV and motivational

Education Department for more infor-

letter and post documentation to the bur-

mation. Accompanying your application

sary department of SAPPI or email appli-

please include latest school results, certi-

cations to: bursary.recruitment@sappi.com.

fied copy of your ID and your CV.

Closing date: 30 November

Closing date: End of January

Closing date: 1 February

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

33

QUIZ

TEST YOURSELF

1 2

After humans, which primate is considered the most intelligent on the planet?

A. Gorillas

7

A. Max Planck

B. Orangutans

B. Albert Einstein

C. Chimpanzees

C. Heinrich Hertz

Where can the world’s largest volcano be found?

A. Mount Agung, Bali B. Mauna Loa, Hawaii

8

C. Mount Fuji, Honshu Island

3

Quantum Theory was introduced in 1900 by which scientist?

How many pairs of ribs are there in the human body?

A. 8 B. 12 C. 16

The Nobel Prize in Physics for the discovery of the Law of Photoelectric Effect was awarded to: A. Isaac Newton B. Albert Einstein C. Wilhelm Roentgen

4

Who is considered to be the founder of Meteorology?

A. Plato B. Galileo C. Aristotle

5

The source of oxygen in photosynthesis is: A. Minerals B. Glucose C. Water

6

The gas commonly known as ‘Laughing Gas’ is: A. Nitrous Oxide B. Sodium Oxide C. Sulfur Dioxide

34

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

PUZZLES

SUDUKO Fill in the 9Ă—9 grid with digits so that each column, row, and 3Ă—3 section contain the numbers between 1 to 9.

9 5

6 7

1

4 2

8 9

3 5

9

1

5 4

8 2

9

6

4

3 9

7 5

2

1 2 9

6 8

CROSSWORD Down

1

1. Which cat is the fastest land animal?

1

2. What is the largest species of bird?

3. What is the highest mountain on Earth?

3

4. What is the hot molten rock that comes from

2

an erupted volcano called?

2

Across 4

1. Which animal is the biggest and largest living

3

on Earth?

2. Bees can be found on every continent on Earth except one. Which continent is it?

3. How many bones do sharks have in their

5

bodies?

4. Arachnophobia is the fear of which animal?

6

4

5. What is a group of lions called?

6. Name the part of the human skeleton that protects the brain.

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

35

ANSWERS

TEST RESULTS What was your score for the Food Science Issue?

SUDUKO

SCIENCESTARS

Issue 16 | 2017

g 0,6

5g

6g

FOOD SCIENCE

1 5 9

2 8 6

3 4 7

6 2 1

7 3 4

8 9 5

9 7 3

4 6 2

5 1 8

3 6 4

7 9 5

2 1 8

4 5 7

6 8 9

1 3 2

5 2 6

8 7 1

9 4 3

8 2 7

3 1 4

6 9 5

9 8 3

2 5 1

4 7 6

1 4 8

5 3 9

7 6 2

QUIZ

CROSSWORD

1. B – Ethology 2

2. C – Pituitary Gland

M

3. B – A force acts upon it

A

4. A – Zoology

T 1

H Y

P E

R

2

R

D

I

O N

I

C

H T

E R

5. A – Frequency 6. C – Anatomy 7. C – Nucleolus

A

8. B – Ultraviolet

R U

N Y 5

G

L

E

A

I

N

R

V

I 6

36

S

M

B O T

T R U

N

3

R

4

E

E

Y

3

T

F A

G

E

R O N

T O

L

E L

S

E

R

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

O

G Y

FACTS

DID YOU KNOW? • The

South Pole is colder than the North Pole – this is because it sits on a very thick sheet of ice and is higher above sea than the North Pole.

• The dung beetle, in relation to its size, is the world’s strongest insect and animal. When rolling their dung balls, the beetle can pull nearly 1000 times its own body weight.

• There is a 98.5% similarity between the DNA of humans and that of chimpanzees, and we share a lot of similar traits, such as our manner of grooming, communication and the ability to walk upright, amongst other things.

• The giant Arctic glaciers hold more than 10% of the world’s fresh water. They reflect sunlight, keeping the region cool, while also helping keep our global climate fairly constant.

• Leopards have a distinctive communication style and can alert other leopards of their presence, marking their territory; they also purr when relaxed and happy, like domestic cats.

• Volcanoes are not only found on land or mountains; they can exist under the ocean or under ice caps, too. There are about 1900 volcanoes that are considered active on Earth.

• Octopuses defend themselves against other sea creatures by shooting out a dark inky liquid which darkens the water around them and confuses their opponent.

• Jellyfish are not actually fish as they have no brain, heart or eyes. They are also invertebrates and have no bones in their bodies. Be careful of touching a jelly, though. They sting!

• There are more than 10 000 varying types of tomatoes across the world – apart from the common red tomato, there are also yellow, pink, purple, black and even white types.

• There are 36 kinds of seahorse species in our oceans. They are very good at camouflaging themselves to stay away from feeding predators.

• Stingrays have been around longer than many other species and fossil records date them as far back as the Jurassic period (approximately 150 million years ago)!

• There are more stars in the universe than there are grains of sand on all of the beaches on Earth. Mind blowing!

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

37

NATURAL DISASTERS

NATURAL DISASTERS

IN SOUTH AFRICA By: Nicole Ludolph

2

017 has propelled the subject of

Earthquakes

Gauteng and the Northwest, and mea-

natural disasters into the spotlight,

Under the Earth’s surface are moving

sured 4.6 on the Richter Scale.

with constant news coverage of

masses called tectonic plates. When these

extreme weather conditions being experi-

plates collide, earthquakes occur. The

Wildfires

enced all across the globe.

ground trembles or starts shaking violently

Fires caused by naturally in the wild, by

for the duration of the earthquake, and the

lightning or falling rocks for instance, are

A natural disaster is a blanket term for

bigger the magnitude of the earthquake,

called wildfires. These fires are uncon-

calamities caused by nature or the ele-

the more damage and fatalities it causes.

trolled and often spread to nearby homes and farmland.

ments. Natural disasters usually cause economic or environmental losses, as well

Earthquakes are measured on the Richter

as the loss of human lives. These disasters

Scale, with minor earthquakes measuring

Wildfires often have catastrophic conse-

can take many forms – let’s explore them:

from 3, while major earthquakes measure

quences for humans. Although, in South

anywhere from 8 upwards.

Africa, the indigenous Fynbos plants

Flash floods

require wildfires every now and then in

These occur in low-lying areas, and are

The last earthquake to occur in South

caused by extremely heavy rainfall. Water

Africa, in April 2017, was felt in parts of

order to maintain their habitat.

floods into a low-lying area very rapidly,

In June 2017, the uncontrolled Knysna and

causing the area to flood. Flash floods are

Plettenberg Bay fire caused destruction

dangerous because of how fast they occur.

to homes in the area, leading to 10 000

They are fast-moving bodies of water and

people being evacuated. Nine fatalities

can cause devastation to any structures in

were recorded.

their path – they are powerful enough to sweep away any human beings and ani-

Natural disasters come in many other

mals caught in its grip.

forms, and while they can be incredibly devastating, one cannot help but feel in

Durban saw multiple flash floods in October 2017. People living in low-lying areas were warned to find higher ground, due to the massive storms that took place in KwaZulu-Natal.

38

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

awe at the power of Mother Nature.