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Showing posts from February, 2025

Week 4: Geomorphic Processes & Landforms

1. Introduction to Geomorphic Processes The Earth's surface is constantly shaped by dynamic processes operating both internally and externally. These processes are categorized into: Endogenic Processes – Driven by internal heat and include tectonic movements, folding, faulting, volcanic activity, and earthquakes . Exogenic Processes – Powered by external forces such as solar energy, water, wind, and ice, leading to weathering, erosion, transportation, and deposition . Significance of Geomorphic Processes Create diverse landscapes and ecosystems. Influence human settlements, agriculture, and infrastructure. Shape natural hazards like landslides, earthquakes, and tsunamis. 2. Weathering, Erosion, and Mass Movement A. Weathering Weathering is the in-situ breakdown of rocks due to physical, chemical, and biological processes. 1. Physical Weathering (Mechanical Breakdown) Exfoliation: Expansion and peeling of rock layers due to temper...

Digital Rupee (e₹): India’s Leap into the Future of Money

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  Digital Rupee (e₹) The Digital Rupee (e₹) is India's Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) . It serves as a digital counterpart to the physical rupee (₹) and is currently being pilot-tested for retail and wholesale applications. The Digital Rupee aims to enhance financial inclusion, streamline transactions, and modernize India's monetary system. Key Concepts and Terminology CBDC (Central Bank Digital Currency): A digital form of fiat currency issued by a central bank. Retail CBDC (e₹-R): Digital currency for public transactions, similar to cash. Wholesale CBDC (e₹-W): Digital currency for interbank and institutional transactions. e₹ Wallet: A secure digital wallet for storing and transacting Digital Rupee. UPI (Unified Payments Interface): A widely used Indian payment system that facilitates real-time transactions. Smart Contracts & Programmability: Features that allow sp...

Week 3: Volcanism and Earthquakes

Earth is a dynamic planet where internal forces constantly reshape its surface. Among these forces, volcanism, earthquakes, and tsunamis are some of the most powerful and destructive natural phenomena. These events are mainly driven by plate tectonics, which is the movement of Earth's lithospheric plates. What is Volcanism? Volcanism refers to the movement of molten rock (magma) from the Earth's interior to its surface, where it erupts as lava, along with gases and volcanic ash. This process plays a crucial role in shaping landscapes and influencing climate and life on Earth. Causes of Volcanism Tectonic Plate Movements: At divergent boundaries (e.g., Mid-Atlantic Ridge), magma rises to fill the gap between separating plates. At convergent boundaries (e.g., Pacific Ring of Fire), one plate subducts beneath another, melting into magma that rises to the surface. Hotspots: In some regions like Hawaii, magma rises from dee...