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Outforia

Your Ultimate Guide to the Great Outdoors

Natural World

How are Igneous Rocks Formed? Unravel the Fiery Origins of Earth’s Building Blocks

Written by:
Leah Markum
Leah Markum
Leah is a writer, photographer, and hiker who is always ready to explore. She enjoys sharing scientific knowledge, nature art, and outdoor adventures to inspire others to get out and experience for themselves.
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Outforia Quicktake: Key Takeaways In short, if you want to know what igneous rock is and how it formed, you can just imagine a volcanic eruption. But if you have more curiosity, you want to know …

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Virga: Unraveling the Secrets of the Evaporating Rain

Written by:
Amy Hayes
Amy Hayes
Amy Hayes is an outdoor enthusiast and writer specializing in conservation, research, and history. She has been fascinated by the wonders of nature since she was a child and has always loved exploring the great outdoors. Her written works display her passion for research and thirst for knowledge. B.A. in History and English from Old Dominion University. Passionate about hiking, kayaking, and sightseeing in the Blue Ridge and Appalachian mountains.
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Outforia Quicktake: Key Takeaways Virga is a weather phenomenon that occurs when precipitation falls from a cloud but evaporates before reaching the ground. Virga can occur from different types …

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The Wonders of Estuaries: What Is an Estuary and Its Importance in Nature

Written by:
Alex Moore
Alex Moore
Alex is a full-time van dweller and avid outdoorsman. He has spent the last year documenting his travels, hoping to share his love of nature with others. Content Contributor specializing in hiking, camping, ornithology, and DIY conversions. BA in Journalism from the University of Missouri. Passionate about van dwelling, photography, and spending time outdoors with his dog. Focuses on the outdoor industry and shares perspective from living on the road full-time. Self-taught in plumbing, electricity, and woodworking, with plans to continue converting vans for fellow travelers.
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Outforia Quicktake: Key Takeaways Estuaries are incredibly diverse ecosystems, with many habitats available. Different bird, fish, mammal, and invertebrate species inhabit these delta-like …

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What is a Tornado? A Fascinating Look at the Science and Impact of Tornadoes

Written by:
Amy Hayes
Amy Hayes
Amy Hayes is an outdoor enthusiast and writer specializing in conservation, research, and history. She has been fascinated by the wonders of nature since she was a child and has always loved exploring the great outdoors. Her written works display her passion for research and thirst for knowledge. B.A. in History and English from Old Dominion University. Passionate about hiking, kayaking, and sightseeing in the Blue Ridge and Appalachian mountains.
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Outforia Quicktake: Key Takeaways Tornadoes are powerful types of storms that can occur almost anywhere when conditions are right. Have you ever wondered where tornadoes come from and how they …

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Lenticular Clouds: Why Are They Shaped Like UFOs?

Written by:
Amy Hayes
Amy Hayes
Amy Hayes is an outdoor enthusiast and writer specializing in conservation, research, and history. She has been fascinated by the wonders of nature since she was a child and has always loved exploring the great outdoors. Her written works display her passion for research and thirst for knowledge. B.A. in History and English from Old Dominion University. Passionate about hiking, kayaking, and sightseeing in the Blue Ridge and Appalachian mountains.
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Lenticular clouds are one of the rarest types of clouds that form in our atmosphere. These clouds have a unique disk-like shape, making them look like flying saucers. They’re formed by special …

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Cumulonimbus Clouds: The Sky’s Severe Weather Billboard

Written by:
Michelle VanGurp
Michelle VanGurp
Michelle M. VanGurp is a lifelong writer and outdoor enthusiast as well as a mom to two aspiring scientists. She loves writing about all things wild and free, especially if she can do so under the wide open sky
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Have you ever spent the afternoon lazing in the grass, watching the clouds go by? Have you ever looked into the sky and seen clouds resembling dragons or birds? Clouds are a part of our sky every …

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What is Subsidence? The Alarming Reality of Sinking Landscapes and Its Effects

Written by:
Amy Hayes
Amy Hayes
Amy Hayes is an outdoor enthusiast and writer specializing in conservation, research, and history. She has been fascinated by the wonders of nature since she was a child and has always loved exploring the great outdoors. Her written works display her passion for research and thirst for knowledge. B.A. in History and English from Old Dominion University. Passionate about hiking, kayaking, and sightseeing in the Blue Ridge and Appalachian mountains.
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Outforia Quicktake: Key Takeaways What is Subsidence? Subsidence is the abrupt or gradual sinking of the Earth's surface. Typically, human action is the cause. But groundwater removal is one …

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What is Schist? Exploring the Formation, Uses, and Types of This Unique Rock

Written by:
Leah Markum
Leah Markum
Leah is a writer, photographer, and hiker who is always ready to explore. She enjoys sharing scientific knowledge, nature art, and outdoor adventures to inspire others to get out and experience for themselves.
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Outforia Quicktake: Key Takeaways Schist is a frequent victim of geology puns, but if we take it seriously, we can appreciate this rock.  It has been a part of the human story as our …

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How Are Deltas Formed? Full Explanation with Examples

Written by:
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee is Freelance Writer specializing in Wildlife & Marine Science. B.S. in Biology & B.A. in Science Writing from Millersville University. Passionate about hiking, kayaking, and all things outdoors. 5 years of experience with native Pennsylvania wildlife and 1 year of freelance & ghostwriting. She loves sharing the joy of nature with others, and hopes to inspire.
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What is delta and how is it formed? You might have never thought about this, but if you grew up close to a large lake or the ocean, it’s likely that you’ve seen a delta. Deltas form at the mouths of …

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How Are Metamorphic Rocks Formed? (Full Explanation)

Written by:
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee is Freelance Writer specializing in Wildlife & Marine Science. B.S. in Biology & B.A. in Science Writing from Millersville University. Passionate about hiking, kayaking, and all things outdoors. 5 years of experience with native Pennsylvania wildlife and 1 year of freelance & ghostwriting. She loves sharing the joy of nature with others, and hopes to inspire.
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There are three types of rocks: sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks. Sedimentary rocks are formed from sediments under pressure. Igneous rocks are formed by melting.  Metamorphic rocks …

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26+ Types of Gems: All About These Popular and Rare Jewels

Written by:
Alex Vexinath
Alex Vexinath
Alex Vexinath is a content contributor with a background in both freelance writing and academic research. He has an avid interest in exploring nature and learning more about his physical surroundings.
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share this image on your site 11 Popular Different Types of Gems Listed 1. Diamonds With their unrivaled strength and brilliance, diamonds have become a universal emblem of undying devotion …

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9 Different Types of Weather: Facts, Definitions and Forecasting

Written by:
Gaby Pilson
Gaby Pilson
Gaby is a professional Outdoor Educator, Climbing & Polar Guide, and Wilderness Medicine Instructor. Expert in Backpacking, Skiing, Climbing, Mountaineering, Sailing, and Wilderness Medicine. AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor Course Provider. Master's degree in Outdoor Education from The University of Edinburgh. Experienced in leading Arctic & Antarctic expeditions. Freelance writer, coffee enthusiast, and French existentialism reader. Bachelor's degree in Philosophy & Environmental Studies from Hamilton College. She enjoys helping others gain the knowledge and experience they need to get out and adventure in the mountains.
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Outforia Quicktake: Key Takeaways There are few things on this planet that affect our day to day lives more than the weather. But despite the importance of the weather, many of us know relatively …

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12 Different Types of Ecosystems and Why They Are Important

Written by:
Ann Briggs
Ann Briggs
Ann is a Science Communicator and Contributor specializing in conservation, biology, travel, science and outdoor recreation. She is passionate about helping others gain an appreciation of nature and the knowledge to get outside and experience new adventures. Bachelor's degree in Conservation Biology and Master's in Science Communication from the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. Wilderness first aid certified and trained as a safari guide in Botswana. Enjoys hiking, camping, climbing, paddling, and exploring.
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Whether you realize it or not, you interact with an ecosystem every day.  We all live in ecosystems and have an impact on how they work and the other species that are able to live in our shared …

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10 Types of Habitats Around The World that Animals & Plants Call Home

Written by:
Alex Vexinath
Alex Vexinath
Alex Vexinath is a content contributor with a background in both freelance writing and academic research. He has an avid interest in exploring nature and learning more about his physical surroundings.
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Biomes, ecosystems, and habitats have a lot of overlap. The lines between them aren't always apparent. In a nutshell, a habitat is an environment in which a particular animal or plant (or type of …

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What Causes Tides?

Written by:
Gaby Pilson
Gaby Pilson
Gaby is a professional Outdoor Educator, Climbing & Polar Guide, and Wilderness Medicine Instructor. Expert in Backpacking, Skiing, Climbing, Mountaineering, Sailing, and Wilderness Medicine. AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor Course Provider. Master's degree in Outdoor Education from The University of Edinburgh. Experienced in leading Arctic & Antarctic expeditions. Freelance writer, coffee enthusiast, and French existentialism reader. Bachelor's degree in Philosophy & Environmental Studies from Hamilton College. She enjoys helping others gain the knowledge and experience they need to get out and adventure in the mountains.
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Have you ever spent a day at the beach and noticed that the water levels are constantly changing? You’re not alone. The ever-changing water levels of our ocean are a well-studied phenomenon known as …

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15 Different Types of Terrain You Should Know About: Complete Guide

Written by:
Alex Vexinath
Alex Vexinath
Alex Vexinath is a content contributor with a background in both freelance writing and academic research. He has an avid interest in exploring nature and learning more about his physical surroundings.
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The word "terrain" derives from the Latin word "terra," which means "earth." Terrain is a term used to describe the layout of the landscape, and it can also be referred to as topography or relief. …

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All About The 4 Types of Volcanoes+ Formation, Eruption, and Facts

Written by:
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee is Freelance Writer specializing in Wildlife & Marine Science. B.S. in Biology & B.A. in Science Writing from Millersville University. Passionate about hiking, kayaking, and all things outdoors. 5 years of experience with native Pennsylvania wildlife and 1 year of freelance & ghostwriting. She loves sharing the joy of nature with others, and hopes to inspire.
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Volcanoes can produce devastating destruction. They can create flows of lava that can cover communities at speeds of 450 miles (724 km) and hour. They spew hot ash and boulders in the air to rain down …

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Unveiling Earth’s Wonders: 26 Different Types of Biomes Explored

Written by:
Gaby Pilson
Gaby Pilson
Gaby is a professional Outdoor Educator, Climbing & Polar Guide, and Wilderness Medicine Instructor. Expert in Backpacking, Skiing, Climbing, Mountaineering, Sailing, and Wilderness Medicine. AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor Course Provider. Master's degree in Outdoor Education from The University of Edinburgh. Experienced in leading Arctic & Antarctic expeditions. Freelance writer, coffee enthusiast, and French existentialism reader. Bachelor's degree in Philosophy & Environmental Studies from Hamilton College. She enjoys helping others gain the knowledge and experience they need to get out and adventure in the mountains.
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Outforia Quicktake: Key Takeaways Earth is a truly remarkable place. It’s home to everything from vast arid deserts and dense tropical rainforests to coral reefs and high alpine meadows. But …

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30 Types of Rock That You Shouldn’t Take For Granite: Pictures and Facts

Written by:
Gaby Pilson
Gaby Pilson
Gaby is a professional Outdoor Educator, Climbing & Polar Guide, and Wilderness Medicine Instructor. Expert in Backpacking, Skiing, Climbing, Mountaineering, Sailing, and Wilderness Medicine. AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor Course Provider. Master's degree in Outdoor Education from The University of Edinburgh. Experienced in leading Arctic & Antarctic expeditions. Freelance writer, coffee enthusiast, and French existentialism reader. Bachelor's degree in Philosophy & Environmental Studies from Hamilton College. She enjoys helping others gain the knowledge and experience they need to get out and adventure in the mountains.
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Outforia Quicktake: Key Takeaways Wherever you go in this world, rocks are sure to abound. Rocks are our firm footing on this planet Earth, and without them, our home would be a vastly different …

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19 Incredible Types of Storms

Written by:
Gaby Pilson
Gaby Pilson
Gaby is a professional Outdoor Educator, Climbing & Polar Guide, and Wilderness Medicine Instructor. Expert in Backpacking, Skiing, Climbing, Mountaineering, Sailing, and Wilderness Medicine. AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor Course Provider. Master's degree in Outdoor Education from The University of Edinburgh. Experienced in leading Arctic & Antarctic expeditions. Freelance writer, coffee enthusiast, and French existentialism reader. Bachelor's degree in Philosophy & Environmental Studies from Hamilton College. She enjoys helping others gain the knowledge and experience they need to get out and adventure in the mountains.
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Regardless of where you live in this world, at some point in your life, you’ve probably experienced a major storm. From snowstorms to hurricanes and tornadoes, there are a whole host of different …

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Types of Landforms: From the Top of the Globe to the Depths of the Sea

Written by:
Amanda Readman
Amanda Readman
Amanda is a writer, avid climber, and outdoor enthusiast. She has traveled extensively, around the U.S., throughout Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Everywhere she treks, she takes time to enjoy the outdoors. She works through writing and leadership to educate people on the link between the outdoors to mental and global stability.
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The earth is a fascinating place with all kinds of variation and geographical interest. Have you ever seen an unlabeled picture come up as a screensaver and been able to guess where it’s at based on …

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24 Types of Natural Disasters That You Need To Know

Written by:
Gaby Pilson
Gaby Pilson
Gaby is a professional Outdoor Educator, Climbing & Polar Guide, and Wilderness Medicine Instructor. Expert in Backpacking, Skiing, Climbing, Mountaineering, Sailing, and Wilderness Medicine. AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor Course Provider. Master's degree in Outdoor Education from The University of Edinburgh. Experienced in leading Arctic & Antarctic expeditions. Freelance writer, coffee enthusiast, and French existentialism reader. Bachelor's degree in Philosophy & Environmental Studies from Hamilton College. She enjoys helping others gain the knowledge and experience they need to get out and adventure in the mountains.
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Fact: Regardless of where you live in the world, natural disasters are always a threat. From hurricanes and blizzards to earthquakes and wildfires, natural disasters affect all of us on planet …

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11 Types of Precipitation To Know For Your Next Outdoor Adventure (Facts, Photos And More)

Written by:
Gaby Pilson
Gaby Pilson
Gaby is a professional Outdoor Educator, Climbing & Polar Guide, and Wilderness Medicine Instructor. Expert in Backpacking, Skiing, Climbing, Mountaineering, Sailing, and Wilderness Medicine. AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor Course Provider. Master's degree in Outdoor Education from The University of Edinburgh. Experienced in leading Arctic & Antarctic expeditions. Freelance writer, coffee enthusiast, and French existentialism reader. Bachelor's degree in Philosophy & Environmental Studies from Hamilton College. She enjoys helping others gain the knowledge and experience they need to get out and adventure in the mountains.
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Love it or hate it, precipitation is a fact of everyday life.  But, rain, sleet, hail, and snow are just a small fraction of all the different types of precipitation that we can experience …

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47 Types of Bodies of Water: Pictures and More

Written by:
Gaby Pilson
Gaby Pilson
Gaby is a professional Outdoor Educator, Climbing & Polar Guide, and Wilderness Medicine Instructor. Expert in Backpacking, Skiing, Climbing, Mountaineering, Sailing, and Wilderness Medicine. AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor Course Provider. Master's degree in Outdoor Education from The University of Edinburgh. Experienced in leading Arctic & Antarctic expeditions. Freelance writer, coffee enthusiast, and French existentialism reader. Bachelor's degree in Philosophy & Environmental Studies from Hamilton College. She enjoys helping others gain the knowledge and experience they need to get out and adventure in the mountains.
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Water is everywhere in our daily lives. From staying hydrated to washing your dishes and brushing your teeth, there are few things in this world that don’t involve water in some way, shape, or …

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