1. What is Whole Earth System Science?

2. Whole Earth System Science Is… The concept that the earth is comprised of interacting components or subsystems.The concept that the earth is comprised of interacting components or subsystems.

3. The Main Systems Biosphere = the realm of all living things on earth, including humans. Geosphere = the realm of all non-living aspects of the earth. The geosphere is divided into 3 subsystems; –T–The lithosphere –T–The atmosphere –T–The hydrosphere

4. The 4 Spheres Biosphere Lithosphere Hydrosphere Atmosphere

5. The Biosphere “Life” sphere biosphere lifeThe biosphere consists of the totality of life forms on earth. –This includes all plants, animals, and humans.

6. The Lithosphere “Land” sphere lithosphere crustThe lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the earth that includes the crust and uppermost part of the mantle.

7. The Atmosphere “Air” sphere atmosphere airThe atmosphere is the gaseous portion of the planet, the planets envelope of air.

8. The Hydrosphere “Water” sphere hydrospherewaterThe hydrosphere is the water portion of the planet. –This includes all oceans, lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, snow, ice.

9. The Cryosphere “Frozen” sphere The c cc cryosphere is the collective term for all the i ii ice and snow on the earth.