03.08.2009
The naturally-occurring ionizing radiation which every person is exposed to, arising from the earth’s crust (including radon) and from cosmic radiation
A class of synthetic chemicals that are odorless, non-toxic, non-flammable, and chemically inert. The first CFC was synthesized in 1892, but no use was found for it until the 1920s. Their stability and apparently harmless properties made CFCs popular as propellants in aerosol cans, as refrigerants in refrigerators and air conditioners, as degreasing agents, and in the manufacture of foam packaging. They are now known to be partly responsible for the destruction of the ozone layer. When CFCs are released into the atmosphere, they drift up slowly into the stratosphere, where, under the influence of ultraviolet radiation from the Sun, they react with ozone (O3) to form free chlorine (Cl) atoms and molecular oxygen (O2), thereby destroying the ozone layer which protects the Earth’s surface from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. The chlorine liberated during ozone breakdown can react with still more ozone, making the CFCs particularly dangerous to the environment. CFCs can remain in the atmosphere for more than a hundred years. Replacements for CFCs are being developed, and research into safe methods for destroying existing CFCs is being carried
Founded by Sheikh Yamani in 1990, the Centre for Global Energy Studies is a leading energy forecasting organization specializing in the analysis of the oil market and the economics and politics of energy. Its expertise lies in the forecasting of oil demand, supply and prices, OPEC policy, the Middle East, Russia and the Former Soviet Union. CGES is well known for its unbiased, in-depth studies and subscription publications. They also offer tailor-made consultancy and hold energy-related events.
The centre closed down in 2014 after 24 years
The gradual softening and melting of coal ash that takes place with increase in temperature as a result of the melting of the constituents and chemical reactions