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, and environmental science.

How can we classify planet Earth? Earth has four spheres. Earth’s physical environment is traditionally divided into three major parts (spheres): Geosphere ~ the solid part of Earth Hydrosphere ~ the water portion of Earth 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 is an equally important part of Earth

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 continually interacting whole that we call the Earth system. Earth system science uses an interdisciplinary approach to combine the knowledge of many academic fields in the study of Earth and its global environmental problems

What is a system? A system is a group of interacting parts that form a complex whole. 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. An open system is one in which energy and matter are able to enter and leave.

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

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

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.

A Closed System The Earth’s Core The Earth The Sun Earth receives energy from the Sun, but very little matter enters or exits Earth’s systems Geosphere Land Plate Tectonics Volcanoes The Rock Cycle Hot Spots Sedimentation Fossilization Earthquakes Magnetism Atmosphere Air Water Weather Climate Clouds Jet Stream Solar Radiation Buffer CO2 / O2 mixing Global heating mix The Earth’s Core The energy driver of many of the geospheres processes The Earth The 3rd planet from the Sun with unique properties that allow for life Hydrosphere Water: (Solid, Liquid, Gas) The water cycle Oceans Lakes & Rivers Sea Ice Glaciers Snow Cover Soil Moisture Aquifers Biosphere Plants Animals Fungi Bacteria Algae Coral Reefs Producers, Consumers, & Decomposers Evolution & Adaptations The Sun The energy giver of many of the Earth systems interactions