Tutor profile: Fatema Al-zahraa L.

Is all radiation electromagnetic?

Electromagnetic is just one of several forms of radiation. We use the term "radiation" to describe waves or particles emanating from a source. Thus even a loudspeaker (or a person's mouth) radiates sound waves. Radioactive particles, while some are having an electric charge, are not purely electromagnetic. Those include electrons (beta radiation), protons, helium ions (alpha radiation), neutrons, neutrinos and a long list of other particles many of them are known as "cosmic rays." To put some order in the vast variety of types of radiation, one might describe them by the kind of force they carry. There are only four fundamental forces: gravity, electromagnetic, weak, and strong. Each radiation in nature comprises one or more of these three forces. For example, sound consists of three forces since it involves the electromagnetic interactions between molecules with each molecule possessing all three forces internally.

I hear that Arabic is a difficult language, is that true?

Absolutely not. Arabic is like any other language consists of just 28 letters that join up to form words. Arabic is a Sematic language that has a derivation system, whereby from a single root (defined as a three-letter combination), you can derive a whole array of related meanings. For example, from the root ‘a-l-m we get the verbs ‘alima (to know), ‘allama(to teach),a’lama (to inform),ta’allama (to learn), ista’lama (to inquire). Besides, the way each of these verbs is related to the primary root ‘a-l-m helps with vocabulary acquisition. Furthermore, Arabic is written phonetically; therefore, every word is spelled exactly as it sounds. Also, there is no correct intonation to learn in Arabic since all syllables are equally stressed. Of course, Arabic has its fair share of challenges; however, you might find that it is much easier to understand and get along with than you had thought.

When is calculus used in the real world?

Calculus is integrated into almost all disciplines and has many real-life applications. Such disciplines include physics, engineering, economics, statistics, and medicine. It is used to create mathematical models to arrive at an optimal explanation. For instance, calculus is used in most of the physics concepts such as motion, electricity, heat, light, harmonics, acoustics, astronomy, and dynamics. Even advanced physics concepts such as electromagnetism and Einstein's theory of relativity apply calculus. In the field of chemistry, calculus is used to predict functions such as reaction rates and radioactive decay. Meanwhile, in biology, it is utilized to formulate rates such as birth and death rates. In economics, calculus is used to compute marginal cost and marginal revenue, enabling economists to predict maximum profit in a specific setting. Besides, it is used to check answers for different mathematical disciplines such as statistics, analytical geometry, and algebra.