Introduction to Earth Systems What is Earth systems

Introduction to Earth Systems

What is Earth systems? Earth systems is the name for all of the sciences that together seek to understand Earth and it’s neighbors in space. It includes Geology ~ Meteorology ~ Oceanography ~ Astronomy ~ Biology ~ Environmental Science

How can we classify planet Earth? has four spheres. Earth’s physical environment is traditionally divided into three major parts (spheres): v Geosphere ~ the solid part of Earth v Hydrosphere ~ the water portion of Earth v Atmosphere ~ the gaseous envelope around Earth Biosphere ~ non physical part of Earth, contains all of the living things on Earth. Interacts with the physical spheres and

How do Scientists Study Earth’s Spheres? Even though each of Earth’s spheres can be studied individually, they are all related and part of a complex system that is a continuous interacting whole that we call the Earth system science uses an interdisciplinary approach to combine the knowledge of many academic fields in the study of Earth and its global environmental issues.

What is a system? A system is a group of interacting parts that form a complex whole. v A closed system is a system in which energy can move in and out freely, but matter cannot. Matter cannot enter or leave a closed system. v An open system is one in which energy or matter are able to enter and leave. v Earth is a closed system when referring to matter, and an open system when

The Study of Earth Systems Earth is a system, the study of Earth as a system depends on studying each sphere, and the science disciplines that are related to those spheres. Geology ~ The study of the solid Earth. Generally split into two broad categories: v Physical examines the materials that make up the Earth v Historical seeks to understand the

The Study of Earth Systems Oceanography ~ Examines the composition of the and dynamics of the Earth’s oceans, this includes marine life, coastal processes, and seafloor topography. Meteorology ~ Examines the atmosphere, climate, and weather. Astronomy ~ Examines the Earth as a celestial body, part of the solar system, and larger universe. Biology ~ Examines living organisms, and their interaction with each other and Earth.

The Study of Earth Systems Environmental Science ~ Study of natural resources, environmental hazards, and how people influence the environment and Earth processes. The environmental scientist is an “engineer” for Earth. They use all of the other disciplines to engineer solutions to Earth problems, predict future issues, and protect the natural environment around us. The goal is to help Earth to maintain homeostasis.

Geosphere Land Plate Tectonics Volcanoes The Rock Cycle Hot Spots Sedimentation Fossilization Earthquakes Magnetism A Closed & Open System Energy is able to come and go on Earth, but matter cannot. It remains on Earth and is continuously recycled. Air Water Weather Climate Clouds Jet Stream Solar Radiation Buffer CO 2 / O 2 mixing Global heating mix Earth in Space The 3 rd planet from the Sun with unique properties that allow for life Earth’s Core The radioactive energy driver behind many of the geosphere’s processes Hydrosphere Water: (Solid, Liquid, Gas) The water cycle Oceans Lakes & Rivers Sea Ice Glaciers Snow Cover Soil Moisture Aquifers Atmosphere Biosphere Our Sun The ultimate energy giver and driver of many of Earth’s processes and cycles Plants Animals Fungi Bacteria Algae Coral Reefs Producers, Consumers, & Decomposers Evolution & Adaptations