Hubbert's Peak and Phosphorus ISB-SS24 Franklin Coon
docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
Michigan State University *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
201
Subject
Health Science
Date
May 21, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
2
Uploaded by DeaconCoyote3805
Name - Franklin Coon
PID - 181315910
ISB 201 – Spring 2024
Ording
Hubbert’s Peak and Phosphorous Homework Assignment
Due Thursday, February 1, 2024 (Must be typed and written in your own words. Be sure to cite all
resources used. This homework should be submitted in the Turn It In Drop box on D2L. In doing so, be
sure to NOT include the original text of the questions posed. Be sure that you have correctly numbered
your responses.)
RESPONSES SHOULD BE A MINIMUM OF 500 WORDS
1.
Conduct research using the internet and clearly explain what Hubbert’s Peak
is and how this phenomenon relates to The Myth of Inexhaustibility. In your answer be sure to explain what it relates to, when it is expected to occur, and what factors have prevented a clear prediction of the phenomenon.
Why should it matter to you? (4 pts.)
Hubbert’s Peak is a concept developed by geophysicist M. King Hubbert in the mid-20th century. The theory predicts that the production of oil in any given region will follow a bell-shaped curve over time, with production initially increasing, reaching a peak, and then declining. The point of maximum oil production is referred to as the "Hubbert peak." The phenomenon of Hubbert's Peak is closely related to "The Myth of Inexhaustibility," which refers to the misconception that natural resources, particularly fossil fuels like oil, are
limitless and can be extracted indefinitely. The Hubbert peak theory challenges this myth by asserting that there is a finite amount of economically recoverable oil in any given region, and once the peak is reached, extraction becomes increasingly challenging and costly. The timing of when Hubbert's Peak is expected to occur depends on various factors, including the discovery rate of new oil reserves, technological advancements in extraction methods, and changes in energy consumption patterns. Hubbert initially applied his theory to the continental United States and accurately predicted the peak of U.S. oil production in the early
1970s. However, predicting the exact timing of Hubbert's Peak for global oil production or specific regions has proven challenging. This difficulty arises due to uncertainties in estimating the size of undiscovered oil reserves, advancements in extraction technologies, shifts in energy policies, and changes in global demand for
oil. Additionally, geopolitical factors, economic considerations, and the development of alternative energy sources further complicate accurate predictions. This should matter to me because the world as I know it is driven by oil production and the use of oil. The essential role oil holds in our supply chain of goods and manufacturing would cause unseen disruption if oil were to run out.
2.
Read the article The Story of Phosphorous (posted on D2L) and conduct research on-line. Clearly explain what the importance of phosphorous is to a sustainable society and how the same principles and concerns associated with Hubbert’s Peak can be applied to phosphorous. (4 pts.)
Phosphorus is a crucial element for life and is an essential component of DNA, RNA, and ATP (adenosine triphosphate), playing a vital role in the energy transfer processes within living organisms. In agriculture, phosphorus is a key component of fertilizers, promoting plant growth and contributing to crop yields. Given its importance, ensuring a sustainable supply of phosphorus is essential for global food security and environmental health. Similar to the principles underlying Hubbert's Peak for oil, concerns about the sustainable use of phosphorus arise from the finite nature of the resource and potential issues associated with its extraction, use, and depletion. The concept of a peak in phosphorus production, analogous to Hubbert's Peak for oil, suggests that there is a point in time when global phosphorus production will reach its maximum and begin to decline. Predicting this peak is complex, as it depends on factors such as the rate of phosphate rock extraction, technological developments, recycling efforts, and changes in agricultural practices. Similar to the exploration of alternative energy sources in response to concerns about Hubbert's Peak for oil, researchers are exploring alternative technologies and strategies for phosphorus use in agriculture. This includes developing more efficient fertilizers, precision agriculture techniques, and sustainable farming practices. The principles and concerns associated with Hubbert's Peak can be applied to phosphorus in the context of ensuring a sustainable society. As with oil, recognizing the finite nature of phosphorus reserves,
addressing environmental impacts, and promoting efficient use and recycling are crucial for establishing a sustainable approach to phosphorus management and securing the foundations for global food production.
3.
Which should be a greater concern for humanity, Hubbert’s Peak or the analogous issues related to phosphorous? Justify your answer. (2 pt.) I believe that the greater concern for humanity is Hubbert’s Peak. Although both issues require a multidimensional approach, including technological innovation, sustainable practices, and global collaboration, the event of a depleted oil source would have a greater, negative impact overall. Balancing efforts to ensure energy security and food security is crucial for a sustainable and resilient future and, specifically in the realm of energy security, society struggles to replace such work that oil does. Everything we use throughout our day was directly or indirectly made possible through oil, whether driving a car, heating
our homes, or even using a good that was delivered using oil as an energy source. The overall impact surrounding Hubbert’s Peak is greater than that of the analogous issues related to phosphorus.
4.
In an agricultural setting, what is “night soil”? Where is it being used? How this related to Sustainability?
(5 pts.)
"Night soil" refers to human feces and urine that are collected at night from non-sewered sanitation systems, typically in rural or agricultural areas. Historically, night soil was often used as a natural fertilizer to enhance soil fertility and improve crop yields. This practice dates back centuries and was prevalent in many cultures around the world, particularly in regions where alternative sanitation infrastructure, such as sewage systems, was not available. Relating night soil to sustainability involves considering its potential benefits and risks including nutrient recycling which improves soil, localized solutions made possible by using night soil, health and safety concerns, including the spread of pathogens and water contamination, if not properly handled, and alternative technologies such as improved latrine designs, ecological sanitation systems, and decentralized treatment options. Overall, its relevance to sustainability lies in its potential for nutrient recycling and providing localized solutions for areas lacking proper sanitation infrastructure. However, careful management and consideration of health and safety aspects are crucial to ensure that the practice aligns with overall sustainability goals.
Work Cited:
https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/aapgbull/article/107/6/851/623376/M-King-Hubbert-and-the-rise-and-
fall-of-peak-oil
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hubbert_peak_theory
https://phosphorusfutures.net/phosphorus-sustainability/
https://sswm.info/sswm-university-course/module-8-water-and-sanitation-future-challenges/further-
resources-phosphorus/peak-phosphorus#:~:text=Comparing%20peak%20phosphorus%20and
%20peak%20oil&text=While%20it%20is%20understood%20that,once%20it%20becomes%20too
%20scarce
.
https://ojs.ethnobiology.org/index.php/ebl/article/view/1351/705
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help