The Climate System

Question 1

Define climate.

Answer 1

The long-term statistics of “weather” (standard 30-year average).

Question 2

Define the climate system.

Answer 2

The interaction and feedback-loops that determine the Earth’s climate.

Question 3

Define climate system dynamics.

Answer 3

Understanding and predicting the evolution of the climate system in response to natural and human factors.

Question 4

Define the atmosphere.

Answer 4

All contents of the gaseous envelope surrounding the Earth, including clouds and aerosols.

Question 5

Define the biosphere.

Answer 5

All ecosystems and living organisms includng derived dead organic matter such as soil organic matter and oceanic detritus.

Question 6

What are the two types of biosphere?

Answer 6

Land - terrestrial biosphere.

Ocean - marine biosphere.

Question 7

Define the cryosphere.

Answer 7

All frozen water, e.g. snow, ice and frozen ground (inc. permafrost) on and beneath the Earth’s surface and the ocean.

Question 8

Define the hydrosphere.

Answer 8

All liquid water, e.g. oceans, seas, rivers, lakes and underground water.

Question 9

Define the geosphere.

Answer 9

All physical elements of the Earth’s surface crust and interior.

Question 10

Name 3 processes occurring in the geosphere.

Answer 10

• Continental drift
• Volcanic eruptions
• Earthquakes