The Dynamic Earth

The Earth as a System Geosphere – rock Atmosphere – air Hydrosphere – water Biosphere – living things

Consists of rock, and the soil and sediments on the surface The Geosphere Consists of rock, and the soil and sediments on the surface

Composition of the Earth Crust - thin top layer, where life exists Mantle - middle layer, making up ½ of the inner earth. Core - extremely hot innermost layer, mostly composed of iron

Structure of the Earth 5 Layers Lithosphere - crust and upper most solid mantle - divided into tectonic plates 2. Asthenosphere - solid rock that flows slowly - convection currents happens here Mesosphere – upper, middle and lower

Structure of the Earth 5 Layers Outer Core - liquid layer 5. Inner Core - solid, very dense

Tectonic Plates The lithosphere is divided into plates that glide across the asthenosphere. Major plates: Pacific North American South American African Eurasian Antarctic

What happens when the plates move??

Tectonic plates collide, separate, or slip past one another. Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and mountain – building are all events that occur at the boundaries of tectonic plates.

Erosion The removal and transport of surface material is called erosion. Water and wind can change the landscape.