Ch Earth Systems

Target #10- I can identify how an earth system is described  A system is an organized group of related objects or components that interact to create a whole  The operation of an Earth system is a result of interaction between the two most basic components of the universe  Matter & energy

 Matter & energy can be transferred  A system is described by the way energy is transferred within one system or between systems  Transfers are commonly accompanied by changes in the physical or chemical properties of matter Target #10- cont.

Target #11- I can contrast an open and closed system  Open System  Both matter and energy are exchanged with the surroundings  Examples  Lake  Water enters the lake through rain and streams  Water exits through evaporation  Sunlight and air exchange heat  Closed System  Energy, but not matter, is exchanged with the surroundings  Example  Closed Jar  Light and heat can be exchanged through the jars sides  Matter can not exit or enter the system  Earth is mostly a closed system

Target #12- I can list the 4 major spheres of Earth  The physical environment of Earth is traditionally broken into four major spheres  Hydrosphere  Atmosphere  Geosphere  Biosphere  Our environment is characterized by the continuous interactions of these spheres

Target #13- I can describe the 4 spheres of Earth  Hydrosphere  Includes all of the water found on Earth  Surface & groundwater  97% is salt water  3% is fresh water  Only 1% of all fresh water is available for drinking  Streams, glaciers, and groundwater are responsible for supporting life and creating many of Earth’s physical features

 Atmosphere  A thin gaseous “envelop” surrounding Earth  If Earth were an apple, the atmosphere would be the skin  Most air is close to the surface  Extends up to 800 miles  The last 400 miles interact with space  Function  Provides the air we breathe  78% nitrogen  21% oxygen  1%- argon, water vapor, methane, carbon dioxide  Exchanges energy between the surface and space Target #13- cont.

 Geosphere  Includes all of the land found above and below the ocean  Not a uniform structure  Divided by composition  Crust, Mantle, Core  Layers are fluid, or move freely.

 Biosphere  Made up of all life forms  Zone of life extends from the ocean floor upward  Can go as high as several thousand feet above sea level  Organisms help maintain and alter their physical environment Target #13- cont.

Identifying Relationships For each of Earth’s four spheres, describe one way that the water cycle affects the sphere.