Unit 1 Lesson 1

Question 1

Earth Systems

Answer 1

All of the non-living things, living things and processes that make up planet Earth

Question 2

Geosphere

Answer 2

The mostly solid rocky part of Earth that extends from the center of the core to the surface of the crust.

It is divided into 3 layers - crust, mantle and core

Question 3

Hydrosphere

Answer 3

The portion of Earth that is liquid water.

Oceans cover 71% of earth’s surface

Question 4

Cryosphere

Answer 4

The portion of Earth’s surface where water occurs in a solid form (frozen)
Includes ice, sea ice, permafrost, glaciers, icebergs and ice shelves

Changes in the cryosphere play an important role in Earth’s climate

Question 5

Atmosphere

Answer 5

A mixture of invisible gases that surrounds a planet, moon, or other celestial body
Extends outward 500-600km from earth’s surface

Nitrogen 78%
Oxygen 21%
Other gases 1%

Question 6

Biosphere

Answer 6

The part of Earth where life exists; Includes all living things

Organisms need oxygen or carbon dioxide, liquid water, moderate temperatures and a stable source of energy

Question 7

Energy budget

Answer 7

The net flow of energy into and out of a system.

It is a way to keep track of energy transfers into and out of the Earth system

Almost all of earths energy comes from the sun. Energy is transferred between spheres but is not created or destroyed

Question 8

Density of the layers

Answer 8

Crust is the least dense
Oceanic crust (5-10km)
Continental crust ((35-70km)
Mantle is in the middle (2900km thick)
Core is the most dense (3500km thick)

Question 9

How do Earth’s spheres interact

Answer 9

Earth’s spheres interact as matter moves between them

Question 10

Earth’s Energy Flow

Answer 10

When earth’s energy flow is balanced, global temperatures are stable over long periods of time