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The Extinction of the Dinosaurs, 2008.
An analysis of whether or not dinosaurs could have become extinct because of the biblical flood.
2,071 words (approx. 8.3 pages), 7 sources, MLA, AU$ 105.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at the extinction of the dinosaurs and assesses the validity of the arguments put forward by creationists in favor of a biblical explanation for their demise. In particular, the paper discusses whether or not it is plausible to believe that the extinction of the great beasts was occasioned by the flood of the story of Noah's Ark. The paper looks at the biblical time-frame and explores whether or not dinosaurs and humans could possibly have existed contemporaneously. Finally, the paper looks at the plausibility of a great Ark existing and at whether the biblical flood could have ever taken place. The paper concludes that there is just enough evidence available for it to be unwise to dismiss the biblical explanation for the demise of the dinosaurs.
From the Paper
"For one thing, critics of the Ark thesis state that supporters of its existence - such as John Woodmorappe - fail to consider how some creatures ostensibly not on the life-saving vessel (terrestrial snails, to cite one example) could have survived the relentless deluge. Further, critics charge that animals and other living beings which managed to survive the Flood could not possibly have been cared for adequately in any Ark - no matter how big. For instance, those who favor an evolutionary explanation for the earth's past (which necessarily means dismissing biblical accounts of why some creatures persisted into the modern age while others died out) point to the apparent logical improbability of being able to house, feed and sustain thousands of different species in a cramped, confined area; as far the critics are concerned, the example of modern industrial farming simply does not suffice as an explanation for how such an enormous task could have been undertaken (Morton, para.4-5)."
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Extinction Of The Dinosaurs, 1999.
Examines theories for their extinction including genetics, climatic change, sea fluctuations and a meteor strike.
2,025 words (approx. 8.1 pages), 9 sources, AU$ 115.95
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Abstract
"The earth has evolved in geologic terms, but it has also evolved in terms of the life that teems upon it. All the change that can be seen and inferred has to be explained. The argument in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries was divided into two camps, the catastrophists and the uniformitarianists.
From the Paper
"The earth has evolved in geologic terms, but it has also evolved in terms of the life that teems upon it. All the change that can be seen and inferred has to be explained. The argument in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries was divided into two camps, the catastrophists and the uniformitarianists. The catastrophists explained the changes by resorting to cosmic violence, to a succession of catastrophes that bring about change suddenly. The uniformitarianists saw the earth evolving in a uniform manner over time. Both groups agreed that catastrophes do play a role in the evolution of the earth and that catastrophes still occur to reshape portions of the earth's surface or to bring about biological changes in a relatively short time. However, this is different from holding that a ..."
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Dinosaur Extinction, 2001.
This paper examines the current theories and explanations surrounding the extinction of dinosaurs.
1,630 words (approx. 6.5 pages), 5 sources, APA, AU$ 86.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at the numerous theories that have been presented over time regarding the reason for dinosaur extinction. The author discusses explanations such as a sudden catastrophic event, like a meteor hitting the earth or a volcanic eruption, and also slow, environmental causes like global warming or shifting plate tectonics.
From the Paper
"First, around the time of the mass extinction of the dinosaurs there was a global climate change. During this time, the environment changed from the warm and mild one present in the Mesozoic era to the cooler one of the Cenozoic. Second, evidence exists to support a massive terrestrial disturbance at the end of the Cretaceous period that included soot in the air, acid rain, the emission of poisonous gases, and a cooling similar to that of a nuclear winter. This terrestrial disturbance caused periods of darkness on the earth as well as a global greenhouse effect. Third, the dinosaurs were only one species that became extinct during this time. According to scientific evidence, approximately 60 percent of all species below the line of the K-T boundary did not exist above that line."
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Dinosaur Extinction, 2003.
Presents several extinction theories and the thought process behind them.
1,118 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the method of scientific thinking in theories surrounding the extinction of the dinosaur. It examines several theories, from the outlandish (mental disorders, constipation, mass suicide) to the most widely accepted ones (climatic changes, gradual die-out). The author then combines two theories to create one of his own (a shift in the earth?s orbit which initiated climatic and biological changes).
From the Paper
"Over the years our ability to gather evidence from the geologic record has increased. New evidence can do many things to our ideas. It can reinforce them or invalidate them or even create new directions for truth seekers to go. The more valid theories fall into two categories, gradual die out and sudden catastrophic event. Most geologic changes occur gradually so this fact alone gives these theories some credibility. Climactic changes can be devastating over long periods of time, as can biological changes."
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The Dinosaur Debate, 2005.
A look at the evidence for and against both the impact and volcanism theories on the extinction of dinosaurs.
6,456 words (approx. 25.8 pages), 25 sources, MLA, AU$ 240.95
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Abstract
This paper attempts to prove why the impact theory is the most plausible reasoning behind the mass extinction that wiped out the dinosaurs and so many other species at the K-T boundary. By looking at the substantial amount of evidence for this theory, it examines how the impact theory as opposed to the volcanic theory is currently the most valid explanation for understanding why so many of the world's plants and animals died out at the end of the Cretaceous period.
Outline
What's in a Theory: The History of Mass Extinction Hypotheses
The K-T Boundary: The Cold, Hard Facts
The Impact Theory
The Volcanism Theory
Which is More Plausible?
Conclusion
From the Paper
"As the years progressed and theories for mass extinction began to multiply, the concepts of catastrophism and uniformitarianism were born. Catastrophism is, "the doctrine that major changes in the Earth's crust result from catastrophes rather than evolutionary processes" (Catastrophism). In this definition, "catastrophes" include anything that cannot be explained by solid, proven, unwavering geological processes visible on the Earth. A flood of the magnitude recounted in the Bible would mean that the geological process of the water cycle would have to be sped up tremendously. This is a perfect example of catastrophism because at the time in which it was most widely-accepted, it was perfectly acceptable to society that the Flood was a largely disastrous event brought upon the Earth by God, and not a constant geological process such as weathering or volcanic activity."
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Evolutionary Mass Extinctions, 2002.
This paper discusses in detail the changes in environment over time that caused mass extinction of animals such as the dinosaurs.
4,290 words (approx. 17.2 pages), 7 sources, MLA, AU$ 182.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the fossil records tell us that, through out the geological history of earth, mass extinctions have been the norm rather than the exception. This paper states that a better understanding of the role extinction plays in evolution is essential. The author concludes that human beings are uniquely adaptable; they invent procedures as medicine that give them extended control over their environments.
From the Paper
"Of course, the most famous extinction event is that of the dinosaurs, about 65 million years ago. Such events appear in the fossil record as far back as Precambrian time when it is believed that life first began. Ideas of mass extinction has been an issue of controversy between many geologists towards the idea that it is related to intermittent catastrophes such as the striking of the earth's surface by a large asteroid or comet. Many paleontologists and evolutionary theorists reject such ideas and believe them to be unjustified."
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Extinction, 2008.
An examination of extinction and its relation to the total ecosystem.
1,674 words (approx. 6.7 pages), 9 sources, MLA, AU$ 87.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses that fact that the ability of a species to survive the extinction of another, depends on its ability to adapt. The paper continues and states that omnivores fair better than those with a limited range of food because if a single food source disappears from the environment, it can more easily find another suitable food source. More highly specialized members of the ecosystem will not be able to substitute food as those that can eat a variety of food. The paper details that the extinction of a single food species will quickly follow the elimination of their major food source. The paper supports the thesis that non-random species loss will have a more devastating effect on the community and than random species loss.
Outline:
Research Methods and Extinction
The Example of Plants and Avian Species
Conclusions
From the Paper
" In order to understand the extent and severity of the current crisis that we are facing regarding the rapid decline in bird species, we must look to past extinction events. Geochemical analysis is often used in conjunction with paleontological data in order to examine past extinctions more closely (Martin, 2007). Fossil evidence analyzed in this manner demonstrates that increasing oxygen levels increases the number of species as well. As oxygen levels decrease, the number of species in the fossil record decreases as well."
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"Extinction"--A Book Review, 2007.
A review of Douglas H. Erwin's book "Extinction."
1,533 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 81.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews Douglas H. Erwin's book "Extinction," which addresses one of several mass extinctions that have been found in the history of life on earth. The author describes the books format, as well as some of Erwin's theories behind the end-Permian mass extinction. The reviewer concludes by describing how Erwin's book can be applied to today's climatic changes. The book can thus be a warning as well as an informative discussion of the past.
From the Paper
"The author also begins by considering some of the other mass extinctions that took place at a much earlier date, in part to see what caused those extinctions in order to see if the same causes applied to the Permian extinction. The evidence from the extinction at the K-T boundary (between the Cretaceous and the Triassic) has been much analyzed because of the discovery of higher deposits of iridium from that period. Iridium is found primarily in meteors or in some volcanic explosions, and so the higher levels have caused many to see the extinction of the dinosaurs as caused by a large meteor crashing into the earth and depositing iridium around the world on the same geologic level. Another substance found at the site of extinctions has been fullerenes, which can be produced by lightning strikes, forest fires, and meteorite impacts. Some evidence exists for an impact around the time of the Permian extinction, but the author says this is inconclusive at this time."
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Permian Mass Extinction, 2005.
An overview of the Permian period in history, when many of earth's species died out.
929 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 54.95
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Abstract
The extinction-level event that occurred during the Permian period, often known as the Great Dying, forms the boundary between the Permian and Triassic geologic periods. During this time approximately 95 per cent of all marine species died out. This paper presents an overview of this time period and the explanatory theories regarding this event.
Paper Outline:
Introduction
Overview of Permian Extinction
Explanatory Theories Regarding the Permian Extinction
Conclusion
From the Paper
"It has been suggested that this increase in carbon-12 could be the result of upwelling of frozen methane hydrate from the ocean floor. Experiments have shown that a sea temperature rise of 5?C would be sufficient enough to gasify solid methane hydrate. This would lead to huge amounts of greenhouse gases being expelled into the atmosphere, and could have led to the mass extinction ("Permian-Triassic")."
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Globalization and the Extinction of Small Languages, 2006.
A discussion of the effects of globalization on the world's small language groups and their cultures.
750 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper examines globalization as the most important reason why small languages are dying out. Some believe that small languages fade into oblivion because local communities and educators do not stress the significance of keeping these indigenous languages alive. The author argues that youth is the vehicle through which languages can be kept alive and transferred to the next generation. The author argues, however, that most young adults are not really interested in preserving local languages or culture. Due to vast exposure, they have come under the spell of stronger languages and culture which is the primary reason we fail to notice the beauty and richness of local languages.
From the Paper
"The writer goes to explain why any language, strong or weak, big or small, minor or major is important. "It is not merely a writer's conceit to think that the human world is made of words and to remember that no two words in all the world's languages are alike. Of all the arts and sciences made by man, none equals a language, for only a language in its living entirety can describe a unique and irreplaceable world." (p. 43) He describes an experience where he realized that indigenous languages are far more colorful and expressive than the well-known widely spoken ones. Shorris comes to see why the existence of small languages is important and realizes that the extinction of these languages would be a huge loss to articulation and expression. "
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Mass Extinctions, 2001.
This paper compares and contrasts the Permian and Cretaceous-Tertiary mass extinctions.
1,400 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 2 sources, AU$ 74.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the Permian and Cretaceous-Tertiary periods of life on Earth - pre-historic forms of life from sea creatures to land and air creatures. During both of these periods, mass extinction occurred and a comparison of these two extinctions is documented in this paper.
From the paper:
"From the perspective of daily human life, we often think of tragedy on the level of individual death and destruction, and the concept of mass extinction as being confined to a species or at worst, an ecosystem. However, over the course of the existence of the earth, the planet has weathered many greater catastrophes. Geologists must take a much longer-term perspective of catastrophe when studying extinction. This paper will compare and contrast the Permian and Cretaceous-Tertiary mass extinctions."
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Barney the Dinosaur, 2006.
A look at what makes the character Barney the Dinosaur so appealing to children and so distasteful to adults.
926 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper describes the creation and development of Barney the Dinosaur and examines the reasons for its immense popularity among children. The paper also examines why many adults find Barney so objectionable even while children adore his character. The paper points out that there seems to be no middle ground for how people feel about Barney; he is either loved or despised.
From the Paper
"A purple dinosaur named Barney has won the hearts of millions of young fans but has caused a wide range of emotions ranging from mild irritation to outright disgust from the older set. Why? What's with this syrupy T-rex who sings, "I love you, you love me, we're a happy a family..." at the end of his immensely popular 1/2 hour program shown daily on most PBS television stations?"
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Animal Extinctions in Australia, 1996.
Impact of hunting by early humans (early Pleistocene) & environmental changes on megafauna population.
1,350 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 12 sources, AU$ 76.95
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From the Paper
"Widespread extinctions began on the continent of Australia during the late Pleistocene. Many of the animals that disappeared were medium- to large-sized herbivores. Their demise may have resulted from early Homo sapien hunting activities. Apart from Antarctica, no other continent has fewer native terrestrial megafauna than Australia (Martin 376-397). During the late Pleistocene, only one genus and four species of terrestrial mammals over 44 kilograms survived. Most of those that became extinct were rather distinctive creatures (Scarre 44). The marsupial genera that disappeared, for example, had various oral specializations. These included the following: (1) Zaglossus (long spiny tongue); (2) Thylacoleo (large gape and short heavy jaws; (3) Phascolonus (strong mobile lips); (4)..."
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Asteroid Impacts, 2003.
Discusses research efforts to find physical evidence to prove that asteroid impacts caused great catastrophes.
675 words (approx. 2.7 pages), 1 source, AU$ 38.95
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Abstract
The paper looks at the role of asteroid impact on the extinction of the dinosaurs and the Great Dying of the Permian period. It looks at direct and indirect physical evidence.
From the Paper
"he article under review is titled "Repeated Blows: Did Extraterrestrial Collisions Capable of Causing Widespread Extinctions Pound the Earth Not Once, But Twice-Or Even Several Times." It was published in the March 2002 issue of the Scientific American...."
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Earth Asteroid Impact as a Threat to Civilization, 2000.
A look at whether the earth is in danger of a meteorite collision in the near future.
1,025 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 6 sources, AU$ 58.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the asteroid which scientists believe caused the extinction of dinosaurs and the probability of another event such as this occurring. It also discuss the measurements government has taken to prevent a damaging impact and the different methods they will use to deter such an asteroid if one should come too near the Earth.
From the Paper
"Luckily for us, impacts that would cause massive destruction occur on Earth only about once ever 100,000 years (NASA Ames Space Science Division). According to NASA, these dangerous asteroids capable of wreaking global havoc are extremely rare."
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Cosmic Impacts, 2004.
A discussion of the result of meteor strikes on earth, the possibility of a 1 km meteor striking earth, and the effects the meteor would have.
888 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper explains how there is proof that earth has been bombarded by meteors in the past. These meteors have caused the extinction of the dinosaurs, provided iron to jump-started the Iron Age, and caused a crater in Arizona. The possibility of a 1 km-sized meteor striking Earth, or even Duluth for that matter, is slim. This paper discusses the possible ramifications of such an event in the future.
From the Paper
"Earth is a target for destruction, but it?s not aliens or terrorists who are planning its ruin. Meteors have assaulted the Earth ever since our home planet came into existence, and they continue to bombard the Earth with broken pieces from asteroids and comets. Some of these results have been disastrous, and some have furthered along human development. In my essay, I hope to show that these meteors have crash-landed on Earth in the past, that meteors do pose a threat to Earth, and evidence for the need for protection against them."
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