Chapter 1
How matter and energy are transferred determines whether the system is closed or open. Open & Closed System
A closed system is a system where only energy is transferred or exchanged with its surroundings. Matter is not part of this exchange. Closed System
An open system includes the transfer and exchange of both matter and energy with the system's surroundings. Open System
Open & Closed System All of the systems on Earth are classified as open systems. However, the Earth system as a whole is considered a closed system because there is a limit to how much matter is exchanged.
The current dominant paradigm is expressed by a recent Earth System Science text which explains that it covers: The cycles of matter (Earth is a closed system with respect to matter) The flows of energy (Earth is an open system with respect to energy)
The Earth’s Four Spheres
1.3 Cycles of Earth : Water Cycle
1.3 Cycles of Earth : Carbon Cycle
1.3 The Energy Cycles Solar Energy Geothermal Energy Tidal Energy
1.3 - Laws of Thermodynamics First Law of ThermodynamicsFirst Law of Thermodynamics: Energy can be changed from one form to another, but it cannot be created or destroyed. The total amount of energy and matter in the Universe remains constant, merely changing from one form to another.
1.3 - Laws of Thermodynamics Second Law of ThermodynamicsSecond Law of Thermodynamics states that "in all energy exchanges, if no energy enters or leaves the system, the potential energy of the state will always be less than that of the initial state." This is also commonly referred to as entropy. entropy
An Example of the 2 nd Law of Thermodynamics A watchspring-driven watch will run until the potential energy in the spring is converted, and not again until energy is reapplied to the spring to rewind it.
Another Example of the 2 nd Law of Thermodynamics A car that has run out of gas will not run again until you walk 10 miles to a gas station and refuel the car.
2 nd Law of Thermodynamics: Entropy Explained Second Law of Thermodynamics also commonly referred to as entropy. Entropy is a measure of disorder: cells are NOT disordered and so have low entropy. The flow of energy maintains order and life. Entropy wins when organisms cease to take in energy and die.
2 nd Law of Thermodynamics: Entropy – An Example Once the potential energy locked in carbohydrates is converted into kinetic energy (energy in use or motion), the organism will get no more until energy is input again. In the process of energy transfer, some energy will dissipate as heat.
Let’s Review: Why is the Earth considered a system?
In a closed system, ______. a)Energy is removed from the system's surroundings b)Energy and matter are transferred or exchanged with the system's surroundings c)Energy and matter are removed from the system's surroundings d)Energy is transferred or exchanged with the system's surroundings
Identify the two main sources of energy in the Earth's system.
Fresh water makes up ______ of our planet's water supply. 1.15% 2.3% 3.2% 4.97%
What are the four main cycles that exist within the Earth system?
The element nitrogen makes up the ______. 1.Largest percent of our atmosphere 2.Smallest percent of our geosphere 3.Largest percent of our geosphere 4.Smallest percent of our atmosphere
Explain how the meanings of these words differ: biosphere and geosphere.
Explain how the meanings of these words differ: hydrosphere and atmosphere.