Biosphere Flashcards
What is a BIOSPHERE
defined as that part of the earth where the living organisms are found.
Where can a biosphere be found
8km upward from the earth’s surface and 11km downwards into the crust.
What are the three types of biosphere
Atmosphere (air)
• Hydrosphere (water)
• Lithosphere (rock and soil)
What is a ATMOSPHERE
atmosphere is a layer of gases around the earth, held in place by earth’s gravity.
What is the atmosphere made up of
of 78% Nitrogen, 21% oxygen and 0.03% Carbon dioxide and very small amounts of other gases.
What does the atmosphere do
supports life on earth:
• It is important as it forms a “blanket” around the earth trapping some of the radiant energy from the sun. This keeps the earth’s temperatures moderate. This is called the GREEN HOUSE EFFECT
What is lithosphere
lithosphere is all the soil and rocks that makes up the upper layers of the earth’s surface.
What does the SOLID, OUTER do
It forms the CONTINENTS which include
• Mountains
• Landforms
• Plateaus
Coastal plains
What does the thin layer of soil do
It’s for weathered rock) which provides plants with minerals and holds water.
What’s a HYDROSPHERE
ALL the WATER on the planet
• Oceans
• Rivers
• Lakes
• Vapour
• Underground water
How much water is sea water and drinkable
97% of the hydrosphere is the OCEAN
3% is fresh water
