The Biosphere Chapter 15 1 and 15 2

The Biosphere Chapter 15. 1 and 15. 2

KEY CONCEPT The biosphere is one of Earth’s four interconnected systems.

The biosphere is the portion of Earth that is inhabited by life. • The biosphere includes all ecosystems. – one of Earth’s systems – includes the biota, all the living things in the biosphere

• There are three other Earth systems. – hydrosphere—water, ice, and water vapor – atmosphere—air blanketing Earth’s solid and liquid surface – geosphere—geologic features above and below Earth’s surface

Biotic and abiotic factors interact in the biosphere. • All four Earth systems are interconnected. • The Gaia hypothesis considers Earth as a kind of living organism. – Earth systems interact to yield a biosphere capable of supporting life. – It was developed by James Lovelock and Lynn Margulis.

KEY CONCEPT Climate is a key abiotic factor that affects the biosphere.

Climate is the prevailing weather of a region. • Climate is the long-term pattern of weather conditions. – average temperature – precipitation – relative humidity • Key factors shape an area’s climate. – temperature – sunlight – water – wind

• A microclimate is the climate of a small specific place within a larger area.

Earth has three main climate zones. • The three main zones are the polar, tropical, and temperate climates. – polar climate: the far northern and southern regions of Earth – tropical zone: surrounds the equator – temperate zone: the wide area in between the polar and tropical zones

• The angle of the Sun’s rays help determine an area’s climate. 90 N polar temperate tropical temperate polar

• Earth’s tilt on its axis plays a role in seasonal change. • • Solar heating causes movements in both water and air. – wind – ocean currents Earth’s rotation also has effects on the winds and currents

• Landmasses shape inland climates. – larger changes in temperatures – less precipitation • Oceans shape coastal climates. – smaller changes in temperatures – higher humidity – more precipitation

• Mountains have an effect on climate. – Precipitation occurs on the side of the mountain facing the wind. – On the downwind side, drier and cooler air produce a rain shadow. – A rain shadow is an area of decreased precipitation. western slope eastern slope

• Many organisms survive in a specific climate due to their adaptations.