According to the passage, what is the best way to understand Earth?

• As a collection of separate, individual spheres.

• As a complex and dynamic planet with interconnected spheres.

• As a planet where only one sphere is responsible for all major processes.

• As a system driven solely by the atmosphere.

Which of the following is an example of an interaction between the hydrosphere and the atmosphere?

• Wind eroding a rock formation.

• A volcano erupting.

• Water evaporating to form clouds.

• Plants growing in the soil.

What is the definition of the lithosphere as described in the passage?

• All of Earth's water

• The gaseous envelope that surrounds the planet

• The solid Earth, including rocks and soils.

• All the living organisms on Earth

The passage mentions that volcanic eruptions can lead to a decrease in global temperatures. Which two spheres are interacting in this example?

• Hydrosphere and Biosphere

• Lithosphere and Atmosphere

• Atmosphere and Hydrosphere

• Biosphere and Lithosphere

How does precipitation interact with the lithosphere?

• It weathers rocks and erodes sediments.

• It creates wind and clouds.

• It causes volcanic eruptions.

• It evaporates back into the atmosphere.

The passage states that the "continuous interplay" of the spheres drives what?

• The creation of new planets.

• • he movement of continents.

• Many of Earth's most significant processes.

• The formation of stars.

The passage uses the example of valleys and canyons to show how:

• Wind shapes landscapes.

• Volcanic activity creates new landforms.

• The movement of water on Earth's surface helps to shape diverse landscapes.

• The atmosphere can influence climate.

What is the main idea of the reading passage?

• Earth is made up of separate spheres that are best studied on their own.

• The constant interaction between Earth's spheres is what makes our planet a dynamic and integrated system.

• The Earth's major spheres are the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere.

• Volcanic eruptions are the most significant process on Earth.