Background for the Interactions of the Spheres

Pedosphere – a small part of the Geosphere The thin layer of soil that covers many of Earth’s land surfaces. Accounts for 10% of Earth’s surface but is a precious natural resource that affects every other part of the ecosystem.

Important functions of soil include: Providing a nutrient–rich medium for agriculture Producing and storing gases such as carbon dioxide Storing heat and water Providing a home for billions of plants, animals, and microorganisms Filtering water and wastes Providing raw source materials for construction, medicine, art, makeup, etc. Decomposing wastes Providing a snapshot of geologic, climatic, biological and human history

Important functions of hydrosphere Essential for life Industry, transportation, recreation and electricity Oceans help regulate global climate Absorb solar energy Circulate heat from equator toward the poles

Important functions of biosphere The existence of life is what makes Earth unique Through the process of photosynthesis plants Remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere Add oxygen to the atmosphere

Important functions of the atmosphere Traps heat to keep Earth warm Protects life from harmful radiation from the sun Drives ocean currents that distribute heat from the equator to the poles Helps to regulate climate

Included in the atmosphere: Aerosols – tiny particles suspended in the air Salt in sea spray Smoke from fires Smog Dust