The Dynamic Earth

The Biosphere Is the part of Earth where (almost without exception) all life exists. Is where all organisms get the energy and resources they need. Extends 9km from the surface of Earth to 11km below the surface of Earth. Consists of three parts: 1. The Geosphere 2. The Atmosphere 3. The Hydrosphere

The Geosphere u 3 Layers based on composition 5 Layers Based On Physical Properties

Scientists use seismic waves to learn about Earth’s interior. A seismic wave is altered by the nature of the material through which it travels. Seismologists measure changes in the speed and direction of seismic waves that penetrate the interior of the planet.

The Geosphere Is the solid parts of Earth The Lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the Earth known as tectonic plates. The Asthenosphere is the thick “plastic” layer upon which tectonic plates float and shift.

The Geosphere (cont.) Movement of plates can cause: 1. Earthquakes – measured by the Ricther Scale

The Geosphere (cont.) Movement of plates can cause: 1. Earthquakes – measured by the Ricther Scale 2. Volcanoes – very common at plate boundaries Example : Iceland

The Geosphere (cont.) Movement of plates can cause: 1. Earthquakes – measured by the Ricther Scale 2. Volcanoes – very common at plate boundaries 3. Mountain Building – due to subduction and/or uplift

The Geosphere (cont.) Weathering and Erosion play huge role in shaping the Geosphere. Erosion is the movement of weathered materials by natural processes like wind or water Weathering is the breaking down of rock by wind or water

The Atmosphere Has 4 Layers The layer of gases surrounding Earth Is composed of : 78 % Nitrogen 21 % Oxygen 1 % Other Stuff ( Argon, Neon, Dust, Water Vapor, Carbon Dioxide (.04 %) ETC.) Greenhouse gases trap and hold heat Has 4 Layers 1. The Troposphere 2. The Stratosphere 3. The Mesosphere 4. The Thermosphere

The Atmosphere (cont.) Thermosphere – Extends from 80km to Outer Space Contains the ionosphere Mesosphere – Extends from 50 km to 80 km - Coldest region The Ozone Layer Stratosphere – Extends from 18km to 50 km and contains Troposphere – Extends 18km densest region – weather occurs here

Energy Flow in the Atmosphere 1. Radiation - transfer of energy through space and in atmosphere 2. Conduction- Transfer of energy between to objects that come into contact 3. Convection - Transfer of heat by air currents. Convection current is caused by a continuous rise and fall of air. The Greenhouse Effect is a good thing because without it, Earth would be too cold to sustain life.

The Greenhouse Effect = Glass Windshield Dog = Earth Greenhouses Gases in Atmosphere Dog = Earth Air in Car = Atmosphere

The Hydrosphere The Water Parts of Earth Is replenished by the Water Cycle

The Hydrosphere (cont.) The Water Cycle is a physical change, but not a method of energy transfer. It involves Evaporation, Condensation, and Precipitation primarily.

The Hydrosphere (cont.) 97 % of Hydrosphere is Salt Water water with 3.5% salt concentration or greater is considered salt water All of the oceans are joined in a single large interconnected body of water called the world ocean. The world ocean plays an important role in the regulation of the planet’s environment through redistribution of heat.

Ocean Currents Ocean currents act as a regulator for Earth’s temperature. Major ocean currents (warmed at the equator) hold and transfer heat from lower latitudes to higher latitudes. Cold water currents run deep in the ocean and generally do not mix with warmer currents found near the surface.

Ocean Layers

The Hydrosphere (cont.) 3 % of the Hydrosphere is Fresh Water 2/3 of fresh water (most of it) is trapped in polar ice caps

The Hydrosphere (cont.) Some is surface water: For Example: Lakes Streams Ponds

The Hydrosphere (cont.) Some is Ground Water An aquifer is a rock layer that stores and allows the flow of groundwater.

THE END