Hydrosphere

Hydrosphere Refers to the part of Earth that contains water Hydrosphere consists of water in the: Ocean Polar Ice Caps Atmosphere Groundwater Freshwater Lakes and Rivers 70% of Earth’s surface covered by water

The Significance of Water Water is vital to all life, cell growth, photosynthesis, and the absorption of nutrients Water is temporarily stored in living beings The hydrologic cycle is the main mode of water distribution on the planet

The Hydrologic (Water) Cycle The process of transferring water from one location to the next. Relies on the ability of water to change from a liquid state to a vapor Evaporation Condensation Precipitation Run-Off

Processes of the Water Cycle Evaporation – water changes from a liquid to a gas or vapor, caused by heat Condensation – water vapor in the air is changed into liquid water, results in the formation of clouds Precipitation – the release of water from the clouds in the form of: Rain, freezing rain, sleet, snow, or hail Run-off/Collection – the return of water to the oceans to restart the process

Oceans Contain 97% of all water on Earth, other 3% is fresh water Responsible for keeping the planet relatively cool Distribute sun’s energy throughout the world

Tides Refers to the changes in the surface level of the ocean, caused by the gravitational pull of the moon on ocean waters. Ocean surface levels can rises and fall depending on the position of the moon relative to the Earth referred to as high tide and low tide.

Currents Ocean currents are the movements of the ocean’s waters. Occur both at the surface and deep below.

Surface Currents The spinning of the Earth and winds move surface currents. Currents help balance the Earth’s temperature by bringing warm water to cold regions and cold water to warm regions. Ex. - Gulf Stream

Deep Currents Driven by changes in density, which is driven by changes in temperature and salinity They are one continuous flow, also known as the Global Conveyor Belt Move much slower than surface currents Distribute nutrients and help regulate temperatures

Final Review How are ocean tides created? Where do ocean currents occur? How are surface currents created? Why are surface currents important to our climate? Why are deep currents important to our oceans?