1. The Earth and Ecosystems (2.1 and 2.2)

2.  The earth is a vast space and consists of three components: 1. Atmosphere – The layer of gases surrounding the earth 2. Lithosphere - The rocky, solid outer layer of the Earth 3. Hydrosphere – The part of the Earth that consists of water (in solid, liquid and gas form)

3.  Ecosystems are a system where all living things interact with each other and their environment (incl. non-living things)  Biotic Factors – All living components in an ecosystem  Abiotic Factors – The non-living components in an ecosystem (conditions and other matter not associated with living organisms)

4.  Individuals are members of the same species and together form a population.  Individuals from different species or populations form a community  An ecosystem exists where these communities interact with their non- living counterparts

5.  The balance and interaction of living and non-living components in an ecosystem  It is the idea that populations of plants, animals and other living organisms can continue to interact and reproduce indefinitely.  There is a delicate balance of living and non-living things that can be thrown off even through the smallest disruption (use of pesticides)

6.  A natural ecosystem is one that is created solely by nature, and does not need to be maintained by humans.  An artificial ecosystem is one that is created and maintained by humans. These ecosystems are usually not sustainable. (Ex. Aquaculture of fish in Atlantic Ocean)

7. 1. Determine as many biotic and abiotic factors as you can in the following ecosystems? 2. Are these ecosystems natural or artificial? 3. Which sphere of the Earth would the following ecosystems be found in

14.  Read 2.1 (Pages 29-30) Pg 31 #1-6 (Make your own summary notes for test)  Read 2.2 (Pages 32-35) Pg. 35 #1-7