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Showing posts from March, 2023

The Dangers of Tear Gas, A Call to End Its Use in Sri Lanka and Beyond

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  Tear gas is a chemical weapon that has been used in conflicts for decades. It is commonly used by police and military forces to disperse crowds, control riots, and incapacitate suspects. However, tear gas is not a harmless tool – it can cause serious health effects and even death. The chemical composition of tear gas varies depending on the manufacturer, but most types contain one or more of the following compounds: chloroacetophenone (CN), chlorobenzylidene malononitrile (CS), and dibenzoxazepine (CR). These compounds work by irritating the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, mouth, and lungs, causing tears, coughing, and difficulty breathing. The health effects of tear gas can be severe, especially for vulnerable populations like children, the elderly, and people with underlying health conditions. Prolonged exposure to tear gas can cause respiratory problems, chemical burns, and permanent vision damage. In some cases, tear gas has led to death, as we have tragically seen in Sri Lan

Unlocking the Power of 14 Hz Binaural Beats: Enhancing Mindfulness with a Scientific and Buddhist Perspective

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Brainwave entrainment using binaural beats has gained increasing attention in recent years due to its potential benefits for cognitive function and mental health. Specifically, 14 Hz binaural beats have been found to have a unique effect on the brain that may offer various advantages for those seeking to improve their well-being. In addition, there are also connections to the use of binaural beats in Buddhist meditation practices. First, let's discuss the science behind 14 Hz binaural beats. When two sounds with slightly different frequencies are played in each ear, the brain perceives a beat frequency equal to the difference between the two sounds. This is known as binaural beats, and it has been shown to stimulate the brain's natural frequency following response (FFR). Specifically, 14 Hz binaural beats are associated with the alpha brainwave frequency, which is linked to relaxation and a sense of calm. Studies have suggested that listening to 14 Hz binaural beats can have se

Exploring the Fascinating World of Polymer Chains: What Happens When You Cut a Plastic Bag?

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Polymer chains, such as those found in polythene bags, are ubiquitous in our daily lives. But have you ever stopped to wonder what happens to the cutting edge of those chains when we cut them? At the molecular level, cutting a polymer chain is a complex process that involves a number of factors. When we cut a polymer chain, we create two new ends, or "free" ends, where the chain has been severed. These free ends are highly reactive and can react with other molecules in the environment, such as water or oxygen, to form new chemical bonds. This process is known as oxidation and can cause the polymer chain to break down over time. In addition to oxidation, cutting a polymer chain can also introduce defects or imperfections into the material. The cutting process can cause the chains to become misaligned or even break, leading to a loss of mechanical strength and other properties. At the same time, the newly created ends of the polymer chain can also have unique properties that ma

Exploring the Frontier of Materials Science: The Possibility of Silicon Graphene

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  Graphene, a two-dimensional material made out of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice, has captured the attention of scientists and engineers around the world due to its remarkable properties. It is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity, is incredibly strong, and has unique optical and mechanical properties. However, could a similar material be created using silicon instead of carbon atoms? Silicon is the second most abundant element in the Earth's crust, and it is widely used in the semiconductor industry to produce computer chips and other electronic devices. It has similar properties to carbon, including the ability to form bonds with other atoms, but its electronic structure is different. Researchers have been exploring the potential of silicon graphene, a material made up of silicon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice, as an alternative to carbon graphene. However, the challenge has been in finding a way to create a stable structure that can maintain its