Earth’s Spheres

Earth is Divided into Four Spheres Biosphere Geosphere Atmosphere Hydrosphere

Geosphere (aka lithosphere) Contains: All of the cold, hard, solid rock of the planet’s crust (surface). The hot semi-solid rock that lies underneath the crust The hot liquid rock near the center of the planet. The solid iron core (center) of the planet

Hydrosphere Contains all of the planet’s solid, liquid and gaseous water Involves salt and fresh water Water on the surface and under ground Includes the water cycle

Biosphere Contains all of the planet’s living organisms includes animal and plant interactions availability of food or energy sources competition for food or energy

Atmosphere Contains all of the planet’s air Includes weather: nitrogen oxygen argon, etc. Includes weather: precipitation climate climate change

Inter-Connection All of Earth’s sphere’s are interconnected. No sphere acts alone without influencing another sphere. For example: Ducks are living creatures (biosphere) They fly through the air (atmosphere) They find food in the water (hydrosphere) They nest on the ground (geosphere)

Inter-Connection (cont.) The spheres are so closely connected that a change in one sphere often results in a change in one or more of the other spheres. The changes that occur within and between spheres are referred to as events. The current balance among these complex interactions makes it possible for life to flourish here.

Put your heads together: With your shoulder partner, describe the interactions in this scene, tracing the movement of materials or energy through all four of Earth’s spheres.

How can a change in one of Earth’s spheres affect other spheres? A volcano erupting First, identify which sphere the event takes place in Then, identify one effect the event will have on each of the other spheres

A volcano erupting (geosphere):

A volcano erupting (geosphere): Biosphere: flowing lava and ash destroy trees and kill animals in the area. Atmosphere: Ash and dust particles pollute the air. Hydrosphere: Ash, dust and other chemicals pollute nearby water sources or create acid rain.

Acid rain falling The human population doubles

A hurricane makes landfall in a costal area.

A landslide occurs near a populated area. Half of Earth’s plant life dies.