What’s a structural change?

Structural change in an economy can be intentional or unintentional, caused by factors such as technological advances, labor mobility, natural disasters, and government policies. It can have positive or negative effects on individuals and companies, and can lead to a more profitable or less profitable economic system. A structural change is a fundamental change in […]

What’s polystyrene?

Polystyrene is a thermoplastic polymer made from styrene and is used to produce a variety of industrial and consumer products. It is a liquid hydrocarbon and is produced via free radical polymerization. Different types of polystyrene are used for various applications, including insulation, packaging, and crafts. When burned, it produces black carbon particles or soot, […]

How many provinces in Canada?

Canada is a large country with ten provinces and three territories. Provinces derive their powers from the Crown, while territories obtain their powers from the federal government. Each province and territory has its own identity, with unique economic and cultural activities. The territories are relatively wild, while the provinces have larger cities and commercial centers. […]

What’s a pulmonary embolism?

A pulmonary embolism is a sudden blockage of a lung artery, often caused by a blood clot from the legs. Symptoms include shortness of breath and chest pain. Treatment includes blood-thinning drugs or surgery. Regular check-ups are important for those at risk. A pulmonary embolism is a sudden blockage of a pulmonary artery or of […]

What’s corp spread duration?

Corporate spread durations affect the price response of a bond to economic conditions. Investors and issuers monitor this response to determine whether to exercise options or call bonds early. A 100 basis point change in corporate spreads over LIBOR is used to track the response. Corporate spread durations have to do with the price response […]

Types of wooden boat oars?

Wooden boat oars come in various designs, including canoe, rowboat, and kayak paddles. They are preferred by many boating enthusiasts for their weight and feel. Hardwoods like ash and maple are commonly used for their durability. Different designs are used for different types of boats and water conditions. There are many types of wooden boat […]

What are Olallieberries? (28 characters)

Olallieberries are a tart, juicy berry related to blackberries, with a short growing season and mainly used for preserves and wines. They are grown along the West Coast of the US, particularly in California, and have a genetic makeup of two-thirds blackberry and one-third red raspberry. They grow on canes or vines that are less […]

Soft Story Building: What is it?

Soft-story buildings have one or more floors that are structurally weak and can collapse during an earthquake. They often have open spaces like parking lots or retail spaces, making it difficult to install shear walls. Building codes prohibit their construction, and older buildings need upgrades to make them safer. In the San Francisco bay area, […]

Soft Story Building: What is it?

Soft-story buildings have one or more floors that are structurally “soft” and can fail during earthquakes, causing serious damage. These buildings often have open spaces like parking lots or retail spaces, making it difficult to install shear walls. Buildings with a floor that is 70% less stiff than the floor above it are considered soft-story […]

Child Labor: What is it?

Child labor involves employing minors in continuous work, often in dangerous or exploitative conditions. The definition varies across cultures, but the United Nations defines a child as anyone under 18. Child labor laws were first passed in the 1800s, but the tradition of children working on family farms or businesses persists. While some countries allow […]

Employee theft: what to know?

Employee theft costs American businesses over $50 billion annually, with 75% of employees stealing at least once. Employers can prevent theft by selecting the right employees, informing them of anti-theft procedures, and monitoring systems. Fraud insurance can cover lost income. According to the US Department of Commerce, employee theft costs American businesses more than $50 […]

What’s a zero-emission vehicle?

Automakers are building zero-emission vehicles due to dwindling fuel supplies, rising gasoline prices, and pollution concerns. Zero-emission vehicles can be powered by electricity or hydrogen, but true zero-emission vehicles are powered by solar or wind energy. Hybrids are not true zero-emission vehicles. Solar-powered cars need sunlight to run, and there are waiting lists for hydrogen […]

What’s a drill chuck?

Drill chucks hold rotating bits and can hold other rotary tools, with keyed or keyless options. Keyed chucks require a removable key, while keyless chucks use a sleeve. Chucks can have up to six jaws, with self-centering chucks being common for home power drills. Self-centering chucks use a rotating collar to move the jaws together […]

Cultural hegemony: what is it?

Cultural hegemony is when one culture has a dominant position and influences other cultures’ values and aspirations. The US is interested in this concept due to its multinational expansion and media industry. However, smaller cultures often choose to adopt foreign ideas and products, and local culture can also influence the dominant culture. An example is […]

What’s a Genome Browser?

A genome browser is a web interface for viewing the physical map of a chromosome, including schematic representations of entire chromosomes and individual genes. They allow users to zoom in on certain locations and display other useful information such as mRNA and DNA sequences. Genome browsers vary between genomes sequenced and some have gene pickers […]

What’s a Scout?

Book scouts locate books for online bookstores, buying them from used bookstores, library sales, and other sources. They enter the book’s ISBN into an internet-based system to determine if the company needs it, then sell it to the online bookseller. Companies like Cash4books and CKY Books pay scouts to find books, but they have specific […]

Skip to content