earth's subsystems Flashcards
Contains the entity
of Earth’s living
things. Also
referred as “zone of
life”.
Biosphere
Is the solid outer
section of Earth. It
includes the entire
Earth’s crust and
the rigid upper
mantle.
Lithosphere
The total amount of
water on a planet.
Hydrosphere
The gaseous
blanket of air that
covers, shield and
insulates Earth.
Atmosphere
the outermost layer
of the Earth, encompassing the crust
and the upper part of the mantle. It is
rigid and brittle, and it is divided into
several tectonic plates.
LITHOSPHERE
these are under __
* Pangaea and Continental Drift
* Asthenosphere
* Plate Tectonics
* Plate Boundaries
LITHOSPHERE
was the supercontinent that existed
around 335 million years ago. The concept of
Pangaea is linked to continental drift, proposed
by Alfred Wegener.
Pangaea and Continental Drift -
large-scale horizontal movements of continents
relative to one another and to the ocean basins
during one or more episodes of geologic time.
Pangaea and Continental Drift -
is a semi-fluid layer in the Earth’s mantle
located below the lithosphere. It is partially
molten and allows for the movement of
tectonic plates.
Asthenosphere
is a scientific theory that explains the
movement of the Earth’s lithospheric
plates. It proposes that the Earth’s
lithosphere is divided into several large
plates that move, interact, and cause
geological phenomena (earthquakes)
Plate Tectonics
3 kinds of Plate Boundaries-
Divergent Boundaries:
Convergent Boundaries:
Transform Boundaries:
Plates move away from each
other.
Divergent Boundaries:
Plates move toward each
other.
Convergent Boundaries:
Plates slide past each
other horizontally
❑Transform Boundaries:
THE
3 CRUCIAL
ROLES IN
SUPPORTING AND
SUSTAINING LIFE
ON EARTH OF THE LITHOSPHERE
HABITAT FOR LIFE
NUTRIENT CYCLING
GEOLOGICAL PROCESSES
The lithosphere
provides the physical
foundation for
terrestrial ecosystems.
Landforms, such as
mountains, valleys,
and plains, create
diverse habitats for
various species.
HABITAT FOR LIFE
Soil, part of the
lithosphere, is essential for
plant growth. It acts as a
medium for plants to
anchor their roots and a
source of essential
minerals and nutrients.
NUTRIENT CYCLING
Earth’s dynamic
processes, such as plate
tectonics, contribute to the
formation of new
landforms and influence
climate patterns. These
processes impact the
distribution and
adaptation of living
organisms.
GEOLOGICAL PROCESSES
6 NEGATIVE EFFECTS ON THE
LITHOSPHERE
- Deforestation
- Urbanization & Infrastructure Development
- Mining Practices
- Soil Erosion
- Land Subsidence
- Earthquakes
IT IS Clearing large areas of forests for
agriculture, logging, or other
purposes disrupts ecosystems
and reduces biodiversity. Many
species lose their natural habitats,
impacting their ability to survive
and reproduce.
Deforestation
it is the Extensive urbanization and
infrastructure development can
lead to habitat loss and
fragmentation. Natural landscapes
are replaced by buildings, roads,
and other structures, reducing the
availability of suitable habitats for
various organisms.
Urbanization
and Infrastructure Development
it is the Extraction of minerals through
mining activities can disrupt the
natural composition of the soil.
Chemicals used in mining
processes may contaminate the
soil, affecting nutrient availability
and the overall health of
ecosystems.
Mining Practices
it is Human activities such as
deforestation, agriculture, and
construction can lead to increased
soil erosion. Soil erosion disrupts
nutrient-rich topsoil, affecting the
cycling of essential nutrients. This
can result in decreased soil fertility
and negatively impact plant growth.
Soil Erosion
is the Over-extraction of groundwater or
oil and gas can lead to land
subsidence, where the lithosphere
sinks or collapses. This process
can alter landscapes, impact
habitats, and pose risks to
infrastructure.
.
.
Land Subsidence
is the Certain human activities, such as
hydraulic fracturing (fracking) or
reservoir-induced seismicity from
large dams, can induce
earthquakes. These seismic events
may disrupt the lithosphere,
causing ground shaking, landslides,
and potential habitat destruction.
Earthquakes
Induced by Human Activities
a layer of gases that
surrounds the Earth.
ATMOSPHERE
is
made up of different gases.
ATMOSPHERE
It is composed of
a mixture of different gases, including
nitrogen (about 78%), oxygen (about 21%),
argon (about 0.93%), carbon dioxide, and
trace amounts of other gases such as water
vapor, methane, ozone, and various
pollutants.
ATMOSPHERE
the 5 layers of teh atmosphere from innermost up to the outermost layer
Troposphere
Stratosphere
Mesosphere
Thermosphere
Exosphere
Altitude Range:
0 to approximately 8-15 kilometers (0 to 5-9 miles)
Characteristics:
This is the layer closest to the Earth’s surface and
contains the majority of the atmosphere’s mass. Weather
events, such as clouds, precipitation, and storms, occur in
the troposphere. Temperature generally decreases with
altitude.
Troposphere
Altitude Range:
Approximately 15 to 50 kilometers (9 to 31 miles)
Characteristics:
The is known for the presence of the
ozone layer, which absorbs and protects against the majority of
the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Unlike the
troposphere, temperature increases with altitude in this layer.
Contains 80% of the total mass of the atmosphere.
Stratosphere
Altitude Range:
Approximately 50 to 85 kilometers (31 to 53 miles)
Characteristics:
is where most meteorites burn up
upon entering the Earth’s atmosphere. Temperatures start
decreasing again with altitude in this layer.
Mesosphere
Altitude Range:
Approximately 85 to 600 kilometers (53 to 373 miles)
Characteristics:
The is characterized by a significant
increase in temperature due to the absorption of solar radiation.
However, despite the high temperatures, the low density of
particles in this layer means that it would not feel hot to a
human. The International Space Station orbits within the lower
thermosphere.
Thermosphere
2 effects of thermosphere
Ionosphere
Auroras
is a region within the Earth’s atmosphere that
contains a high concentration of ions and free electrons.
Composed of ionized particles, primarily ions and free electrons.
Solar radiation, especially in the form of ultraviolet (UV) light, is
responsible for ionizing the gas molecules in this region.
Ionosphere
The ionosphere is involved in the formation of ____
such as the northern lights (aurora borealis) and southern lights
Solar wind particles interact with the ionosphere,
causing the release of energy in the form of light.
Auroras
Altitude Range:
Approximately 600 kilometers and beyond (373 miles
and beyond)
Characteristics:
The is the outermost layer of the Earth’s
atmosphere, gradually transitioning into outer space. It has
extremely low density, and the few particles present can escape
into space. Satellites and other objects in orbit are found in this
layer.
Exosphere
4 crucial roles in supporting and sustaining in the ATMOSPHERE
Oxygen and Respiration
Carbon Dioxide and Photosynthesis
Climate Regulation
Protective Layer
it is when the atmosphere contains
oxygen, which is essential for
the respiration of many
organisms, including humans.
Organisms extract oxygen from
the air to support their
metabolic processes.
Oxygen and Respiration
its is when Plants and certain microorganisms utilize
carbon dioxide from the atmosphere
during photosynthesis, converting it into
oxygen and organic compounds. This
process is vital for the production of food
and the maintenance of atmospheric oxygen levels.
Carbon Dioxide and Photosynthesis
it is when the atmosphere plays a critical
role in regulating Earth’s
temperature through the
greenhouse effect. It helps
maintain a suitable climate for
diverse forms of life.
Climate Regulation
it is when the atmosphere acts as a
protective shield by absorbing and
scattering solar radiation, reducing
the intensity of harmful ultraviolet
(UV) rays. This protection is crucial
for preventing damage to living organisms.
Protective Layer
6 Negative Effects on Atmosphere
Air Pollution
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Ozone Depletion
Acid Rain
Loss of Biodiversity
Global Warming and Climate Change
contamination of the indoor or
outdoor environment by any
chemical, physical or biological
agent that modifies the natural
characteristics of the atmosphere.
Household combustion devices,
motor vehicles, industrial facilities
and forest fires are common sources of ____
Air Pollution
the 2 gases emitted due to green house gases
Carbon Dioxide (CO2):
Methane (CH4) and Nitrous Oxide (N2O):
this is the gas where the burning of fossil
fuels for energy and deforestation contribute
to elevated levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2):
this is the gas where the Agricultural practices, livestock, and certain
industrial activities release methane and
nitrous oxide, potent greenhouse gases that
contribute to the greenhouse effect and global warming.
Methane (CH4) and Nitrous Oxide (N2O):
These arehuman-made compounds, once
widely used in refrigeration, air conditioning,
and aerosol propellants, have been major
contributors to the depletion of the ozone
layer. The thinning of the ozone layer allows
more harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation to
reach the Earth’s surface, posing risks to
human health and ecosystems.and are under what negative effect?
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and Halons —- Ozone Depletion
Emissions from industrial processes
and combustion of fossil fuels release
sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides into
the atmosphere. These pollutants can
lead to the formation of ____ which
has detrimental effects on soil, water
bodies, and vegetation.
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) and Nitrogen Oxides
(NOx):
Acid Rain
it is when Air pollution and climate
change can impact
ecosystems and lead to the
loss of biodiversity. Changes
in temperature, precipitation
patterns, and the distribution
of plant and animal species
can disrupt ecological balance.
Loss of Biodiversity
The
accumulation of greenhouse
gases in the atmosphere
contributes to global warming,
leading to changes in
temperature patterns, sea level
rise, and more frequent and
intense extreme weather events.
Temperature Rise under Global Warming and Climate Change
Refers to the total amount of water on
Earth’s surface, including oceans, seas,
lakes, rivers, groundwater, and even water
vapor in the atmosphere.
o It plays a crucial role in Earth’s geophysical,
ecological, and atmospheric processes.
HYDROSPHERE
3 water states
liquid water
solid water
gaseous water
This is the most visible form,
found in oceans, rivers, lakes, and underground
as groundwater.
Liquid Water:
In the form of ice and snow, especially at the
polar ice caps and in mountainous regions.
Solid Water:
Water vapor is present in the atmosphere,
contributing to weather patterns through processes like
evaporation and condensation.
Gaseous Water:
4 largest oceans in the world
Pacific Ocean:
Atlantic Ocean:
Indian Ocean
Southern (or Antarctic) Ocean
is the largest and deepest of
the four ocean basins.
and it extends from the Arctic Ocean in the north to
the Southern Ocean in the south.
Pacific Ocean:
is characterized by the
presence of the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area with
a high level of seismic and volcanic activity.
Pacific Ocean
an area with
a high level of seismic and volcanic activity.
Pacific Ring of Fire,
is the second-largest ocean
basin.and It separates the Americas from Europe and
Africa.
Atlantic Ocean:
The Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a mountain range
running down the center of the ___ , is a
notable feature of this ocean.
Atlantic Ocean:
a mountain range
running down the center of the Atlantic and is a
notable feature of this ocean.
Mid-Atlantic Ridge,
The Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic
Ocean meet at a geographic point known as
Cape Horn,
Cape Horn, located at the ____
southern tip of South
America.
The waters of the Pacific and Atlantic
Oceans have what characteristics, which prevent them
from easily mixing.
temperature, salinity, and
density
is the third-largest ocean
basin.and It is located between Africa, Asia, Australia, and
the Indian subcontinent.
Indian Ocean
is known for its monsoon
winds, which influence the climate of the
surrounding regions.
Indian Ocean
is the youngest and
smallest of the four ocean basins.
Southern (or Antarctic) Ocean
It surrounds Antarctica and is sometimes
considered an extension of the other oceans
rather than a separate basin.
Southern (or Antarctic) Ocean
is characterized by strong
westerly winds and the Antarctic Circumpolar
Current.
Southern (or Antarctic) Ocean
Southern (or Antarctic) Ocean
horizontal and vertical zones,
2 zones characterstics under horizontal zones
Coastal Zone:
Pelagic Zone:
This zone extends from the shoreline to the continental shelf, where the
ocean floor gradually slopes downward. It is the area where land and sea
meet, characterized by high levels of productivity, diverse habitats, and
significant human activity.
Coastal Zone:
it encompasses all open ocean waters, away from the
coast and extending downward from the surface to the ocean depths. It is
further divided vertically into several subzones based on depth and light
penetration.
Pelagic Zone:
5 zones under vertical zones
Epipelagic Zone (Sunlight Zone):
Mesopelagic Zone (Twilight Zone):
Bathypelagic Zone (Midnight Zone):
Abyssopelagic Zone (Abyssal Zone):
Hadalpelagic Zone (Trenches):
This zone extends from the ocean’s
surface down to around 200 meters. It
receives ample sunlight, supporting
photosynthesis and the growth of
phytoplankton. It is home to a wide
variety of marine life, including fish,
sharks, dolphins, and marine mammals.
Epipelagic Zone (Sunlight Zone):
Found between depths of 200 to 1000
meters, the ____ zone receives
minimal sunlight, resulting in dim light
conditions. Organisms here have adapted
to low light levels, and many species
migrate vertically to feed at the surface at
night.
Mesopelagic Zone (Twilight Zone):
Extending from 1000 to 4000 meters
deep, the bathypelagic zone is
characterized by complete darkness and
extreme pressure. Many species in this
zone have bioluminescent adaptations
and feed on organic debris sinking from
above.
Bathypelagic Zone (Midnight Zone):
zone spans depths of
4000 to 6000 meters. It is one of the
Earth’s most remote and least explored
environments, with sparse life forms
adapted to extreme cold, darkness, and
high pressure.
Abyssopelagic Zone (Abyssal Zone):
This zone includes the ocean’s deepest
trenches, extending from 6000 meters to
the ocean floor. It encompasses the
deepest parts of the ocean, such as
oceanic trenches like the Mariana
Trench. Life in this zone includes unique
organisms adapted to extreme
conditions, such as high pressure and
scarce food.
Hadalpelagic Zone (Trenches):
4 Significant Roles
of
Hydrosphere
Weather Patterns
water cycle
Habitat and Biodiversity
Economic Resources
it Provides a source of
atmospheric moisture,
affecting both the
humidity of a region and
precipitation patterns.
Changes in ocean
temperatures and
currents can influence
atmospheric circulation
patterns, leading to
regional variations in
weather conditions.
Weather Patterns
this cycle replenishes freshwater sources, sustains terrestrial and aquaic ecosystems and supports agriculture and human activities
water cycle
for this Hydrosphere is the
habitat for numerous
aquatic plants and
animals. Plants and
animals in the water
make use of gases such
as oxygen and carbon
dioxide that are
dissolved in water for
their existence.
Habitat and
Biodiversity
Apart from drinking, it is when
water is essential for
cooking, cleaning,
washing and even for
the functioning of so
many industries. In
addition to this, water is
necessary for
agriculture and the
generation of electricity
through hydropower.
Economic Resources
4 NEGATIVE EFFECTS ON HYDROSPHERE
Water Pollution:
Illegal Fishing & Overfishing
Climate Change
Over-Extraction of Water:
Pollution from
industrial discharge,
agricultural runoff,
sewage, oil spills, and
plastic waste
contaminates water
bodies, leading to
habitat destruction,
loss of biodiversity,
and health risks for
aquatic organisms and
humans
.
Water Pollution:
Unregulated and
unsustainable fishing
practices, including
illegal fishing, bycatch,
and bottom trawling,
deplete fish stocks,
disrupt marine food
webs, and threaten the
long
-term viability of
fisheries and coastal
livelihoods.
Illegal Fishing and
Overfishing
Global warming can alter
precipitation patterns,
causing droughts and
floods, which disrupt
water availability and
quality. Melting glaciers
and polar ice caps
contribute to sea level
rise, leading to coastal
erosion and salinization of
freshwater sources.
Climate Change
Excessive withdrawal of
groundwater for
agriculture, industry,
and municipal use can
lead to aquifer
depletion, land
subsidence, and
reduced water
availability, particularly
in arid and semi-arid regions.
Over-Extraction of
Water:
is the ecological system integrating all living things
and their relationship, including interactions with
the elements of the lithosphere, hydrosphere and
atmosphere.
BIOSPHERE
3 COMPONENTS OF BIOSPHERE
Living organisms:
Physical environment:
Interactions:
includes all plants, animals, fungi, bacteria,
and other microorganisms.
Living organisms:
includes the atmosphere(air),
Lithosphere(land), and hydrosphere (water).
Physical environment:
The biosphere is characterized by the complex
____ and inter dependencies between living
organism and the physical environment.
Interactions:
There are Four Major Biomes:
❑ Aquatic
❑ Forest
❑ Desert
❑ Tundra
These are the world’s major communities. They are classified
according to the predominant vegetation characterized
by adaptations of organisms to that particular climate.
Biomes
This biome encompasses all bodies of
water on Earth, including freshwater and marine
environments.
Aquatic biomes
they are further divided into
freshwater biomes (e.g., rivers, lakes, wetlands) and
marine biomes (e.g., oceans, coral reefs, estuaries).
They support diverse aquatic life forms adapted to
different water conditions.
Aquatic biomes
are characterized by dense
vegetation dominated by trees.
Forest biomes
include tropical rainforests, temperate forests, and boreal forests (also known as taiga). These biomes play a
crucial role in regulating the Earth’s climate, carbon
cycle, and biodiversity.
Forest biomes
are arid landscapes characterized by
low precipitation and extreme temperatures. They can
be hot deserts (e.g., Sahara, Sonoran Desert) or cold
deserts (e.g., Gobi Desert, Antarctica). Despite harsh
conditions, deserts support unique plant and animal
adaptations.
❑Desert
is a cold, treeless biome found in
the Arctic and Antarctic regions and at high altitudes. It
is characterized by low temperatures, permafrost, and
short growing seasons.
❑Tundra
____ vegetation mainly
consists of grasses, mosses, lichens, and shrubs
adapted to cold climates.
tundra
4 cycles in the biosphere
Oxygen Cycle
Water Cycle (Hydrological Cycle)
Carbon Cycle
Nitrogen Cycle
entire cycle can be
summarized as, the oxygen
cycle begins with the process
of photosynthesis in the
presence of sunlight, releases
oxygen back into the
atmosphere, which humans
and animals breathe in oxygen
and breathe out carbon
dioxide, and again linking back
to the plants.
Oxygen Cycle
consists of
three major processes: evaporation,
condensation, and precipitation.
Liquid water evaporates into water
vapor, condenses to form clouds,
and precipitates back to earth in the
form of rain and snow.
Water Cycle (Hydrological Cycle)
Liquid water evaporates into water
vapor,
evaporation,
formation of clouds
condensation,
precipitates back to earth in the
form of rain and snow.
precipitation.
is nature’s way of
reusing carbon atoms, which travel from
the atmosphere into organisms in the
Earth and then back into the atmosphere
over and over again.
carbon cycle
4 processes of the carbon cycle
❑ Photosynthesis,
❑ Decomposition
❑ Respiration
❑ Combustion.
is a biogeochemical
process through which nitrogen is
converted into many forms, consecutively
passing from the atmosphere to the soil to
organism and back into the atmosphere.
Nitrogen Cycle
Humans don’t stand a chance when
when Mother Nature wants us dead.
