Earth's Systems and Their Interactions

Front

What is a system?

Back

A group of interacting parts that work together as one.

Front

What is the hydrosphere?

Back

All of the water on planet Earth, including lakes, rivers, and oceans.

Front

What is the atmosphere?

Back

The mixture of gases that surrounds Earth, including oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide.

Front

What is the geosphere?

Back

The solid part of the Earth, including rocks and dirt.

Front

What is the biosphere?

Back

All living things on Earth, including plants, animals, and humans.

Front

How does the hydrosphere impact the geosphere?

Back

Rainwater washes away soil as it flows over the land.

Front

How does the atmosphere interact with the biosphere?

Back

The atmosphere holds the oxygen that animals need to breathe and the carbon dioxide that plants need for photosynthesis.

Front

How does the geosphere interact with the atmosphere?

Back

Volcanoes erupt ash and gases into the atmosphere.

Front

How does the biosphere impact other systems?

Back

Living things need air, water, and land to survive, alter the geosphere by building structures, and contribute gases to the atmosphere. Pollution from human activities can enter the hydrosphere.

Front

Why are Earth's systems interdependent?

Back

The geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere work together and depend on each other to support life on Earth.