Ch. 1.2- Earth Systems

Target #10- I can identify how an earth system is described A system is an organized group of related

objects or components that interact to create a whole The operation of an Earth system is a result of

interaction between the two most basic components of the universe Matter & energy

Matter & energy can be transferred A system is described by

the way energy is transferred within one system or between systems

Transfers are commonly accompanied by changes in the physical or chemical properties of matter

Target #10- cont.

Target #11- I can contrast an open and closed system Open System

Both matter and energy are exchanged with the surroundings

Examples Lake

Water enters the lake through rain and streams

Water exits through evaporation

Sunlight and air exchange heat

Closed System Energy, but not

matter, is exchanged with the surroundings

Example Closed Jar

Light and heat can be exchanged through the jars sides

Matter can not exit or enter the system

Earth is mostly a closed system

Target #12- I can list the 4 major spheres of Earth The physical environment of Earth is traditionally

broken into four major spheres Hydrosphere Atmosphere Geosphere Biosphere

Our environment is characterized by the continuous interactions of these spheres

Target #13- I can describe the 4 spheres of Earth

Hydrosphere Includes all of the water

found on Earth Surface & groundwater

97% is salt water 3% is fresh water

Only 1% of all fresh water is available for drinking

Streams, glaciers, and groundwater are responsible for supporting life and creating many of Earth’s physical features

Atmosphere A thin gaseous “envelop”

surrounding Earth If Earth were an apple, the

atmosphere would be the skin

Most air is close to the surface

Extends up to 800 miles The last 400 miles interact

with space Function

Provides the air we breathe 78% nitrogen 21% oxygen 1%- argon, water vapor,

methane, carbon dioxide Exchanges energy between

the surface and space

Target #13- cont.

Target #13- cont.Geosphere

Includes all of the land found above and below the ocean

Not a uniform structureDivided by

composition Crust, Mantle, Core

Layers are fluid, or move freely.

Biosphere Made up of all life forms Zone of life extends

from the ocean floor upwardCan go as high as

several thousand feet above sea level

Organisms help maintain and alter their physical environment

Target #13- cont.

Identifying Relationships

For each of Earth’s four spheres, describe one way that the water cycle affects the sphere.