Matter and Energy in Earth's Systems

Front

What is the hydrosphere?

Back

The hydrosphere is composed of all the water on or near the Earth, including oceans, rivers, lakes, and water vapor in the atmosphere.

Front

What happens to carbon when humans burn fossil fuels?

Back

Most of the carbon quickly enters the atmosphere as carbon dioxide.

Front

If the plant population decreases, what happens to the amount of carbon in the atmosphere?

Back

The amount of carbon would increase.

Front

Where can carbon be found?

Back

Carbon can be found in the atmosphere, soil, fossil fuels, and living organisms.

Front

Which process does NOT produce carbon dioxide?

Back

Photosynthesis does not produce carbon dioxide; it consumes it.

Front

What is the atmosphere?

Back

The atmosphere is the layer of gases surrounding the Earth, essential for weather, climate, and supporting life.

Front

What role do plants play in the carbon cycle?

Back

Plants absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis and release oxygen, helping to regulate atmospheric carbon levels.

Front

What is the biosphere?

Back

The biosphere is the global sum of all ecosystems, where life exists, including land, water, and the atmosphere.

Front

What is the geosphere?

Back

The geosphere refers to the solid parts of the Earth, including rocks, soil, and the Earth's interior.

Front

How do fossil fuels contribute to climate change?

Back

Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, increasing greenhouse gas concentrations and contributing to global warming.