Earth's Spheres

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What is the atmosphere?

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The atmosphere is the layer of gases surrounding the Earth, essential for life, and plays a key role in weather and climate.

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What is the biosphere?

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

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What is the lithosphere?

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The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and upper mantle, and is involved in tectonic activity.

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What is the cryosphere?

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The cryosphere includes all areas of the Earth where water is in solid form, such as ice caps, glaciers, and permafrost.

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What are greenhouse gases?

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Greenhouse gases are gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect; examples include carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor.

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What is the greenhouse effect?

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The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere trap heat, keeping the planet warm enough to support life.

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What is permafrost?

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Permafrost is permanently frozen ground that remains at or below 0°C for at least two consecutive years, commonly found in polar regions.

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What are ice shelves?

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Ice shelves are floating extensions of glaciers or ice sheets that form where ice flows down to a coastline and onto the ocean surface.

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What is ocean water?

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Ocean water is the saline water found in Earth's oceans, covering about 71% of the planet's surface and playing a crucial role in climate regulation.

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What are the six major ions found in ocean water?

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The six major ions in ocean water are sodium, chloride, sulfate, magnesium, calcium, and potassium.