Minihabitats

Front

Subsystem Noun

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[sub-sis-tuhm]

Back

Subsystem

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A self-contained system that functions as an independent part of a larger, more complex system.

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Example: The diagram shows different subsystems of a computer, each working as an independent part of the larger system.

Front

Geosphere Noun

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[jee-oh-sfeer]

Back

Geosphere

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The solid part of a planet, consisting of all rock, soil, and sediments from the surface to the core.

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Example: This diagram shows Earth's geosphere layers: crust, mantle, outer core, and inner core.

Front

Atmosphere Noun

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[at-muhs-feer]

Back

Atmosphere

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The envelope of gases surrounding a planet, held in place by gravity, which provides air and protection from radiation.

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Example: The image shows Earth's atmosphere layers, illustrating how gases surround and protect the planet.

Front

Hydrosphere Noun

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[hahy-droh-sfeer]

Back

Hydrosphere

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The combined mass of all water found on, under, and over the surface of a planet in any state.

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Example: The image shows water in different forms and processes, explaining the hydrosphere.

Front

Biosphere Noun

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[bahy-oh-sfeer]

Back

Biosphere

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The global ecological system integrating all living beings and their relationships, including their interaction with other Earth spheres.

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Example: The image shows how the biosphere includes all living things and their interactions with the air, land, and water.

Front

Ecosystem Noun

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[ee-koh-sis-tuhm]

Back

Ecosystem

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A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment, functioning together as a unit.

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Example: A pond ecosystem showing fish, plants, and water interacting as a unit.

Front

Controlled experiment Noun

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[kuhn-trohld ik-sper-uh-muhnt]

Back

Controlled experiment

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A scientific investigation in which only one variable is changed at a time to isolate and observe its effect.

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Example: Plants under different colored lights show how changing one variable in a controlled experiment affects growth.

Front

Variable Noun

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[vair-ee-uh-buhl]

Back

Variable

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Any factor, trait, or condition that can exist in differing amounts or types within a scientific experiment.

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Example: The direction of sunlight is a variable affecting how plants grow in different directions.

Front

Model Noun

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[mod-l]

Back

Model

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A simplified representation of a complex object or system used to understand, explain, or test scientific ideas.

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Example: This model shows how planets orbit the sun, simplifying the solar system for easier understanding.

Front

Terrarium Noun

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[tuh-rair-ee-uhm]

Back

Terrarium

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A transparent, usually sealed container in which plants are grown and sometimes small land animals are kept.

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Example: A mason jar terrarium shows layers of pebbles, sand, and soil, demonstrating how plants can grow in a sealed container.