Leaning trees on sloping ground

Article Abstract:

An optimal angle of growth for maximal survival and brighter illumination for leaves of trees at an angle by shortening distance from the canopy surface were among the key observations in a study of the phenomenon of leaning trees on sloping ground. An examination of trees in an evergreen forest in Japan revealed that trees should grow at right angles to the ground to get as much light as possible at their crown. On a slope, this means that they should lean outwards. A vertical or perpendicular angle to the ground is not the optimal angle for a tree on a slope, but an angle between these two points.

Growth, Trees, Trees (Plants), Slopes (Physical geography), Slopes (Landforms)

---

Smokescreen lifted on insect flight

Article Abstract:

A mechanical model was established to elucidate the mechanism of insect flight which has previously been recognized not to follow the conventional laws of aerodynamics. It was demonstrated by the model that a leading-edge vortex which is generated as the insect flaps its wings, provide the forces that make the insect stay airborne. The leading-edge vortex was also found to be stabilized through a phenomenon called 'delayed stall.'

Analysis, Insects, Insect flight

---

The U, J and L of bird flight

Article Abstract:

Scientists have established the work done by a magpie's principal wing muscle using respirometric analysis of oxygen consumption throughout the wing-beat cycle. Schematic graphs of power against speed are illustrated. The results support aerodynamic theory but further research is required to establish the cause of the magpie's L-shaped graph and the reliability of the hummingbird's J-shaped graph.

Birds, Bird flight

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Something to see. Champing at the bit. 'Fingerprinting' documents and packaging
• Abstracts: Dating earliest life. Surprisingly rapid growth in neanderthals. Early human use of marine resources and pigment in South Africa during the Middle Pleistocene
• Abstracts: Life in the hot zone around Chernobyl. Thyroid cancer after Chernobyl. Infant leukaemia after the Chernobyl accident
• Abstracts: The No Surprises policy: stepping away from sound bites and getting down to business. The role of Friends of the Sea Otter in resource protection
• Abstracts: Saving the sea otter population in California: contemporary problems and future pitfalls. The role of rehabilitation in sea otter conservation efforts

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.