WTBW What University did Mr. Willis attend? What are the four components of the Earth System? Why is it important that we look at the Earth System? Is the Earth system “just” Science?

Mr. Willis Earth Sytem/Space Science Earth System Science Mr. Willis Earth Sytem/Space Science

Earth System Science In the phrase "Earth system science (ESS)," the key term is "system." A system-is a collection of interdependent parts enclosed within a defined boundary. Within the boundary of the earth is a collection of four interdependent parts called "spheres."

What is studied in Earth System/Space Science? Geology- Oceanography- Meteorology- Astronomy-

What is studied in Earth System/Space Science? Geology- Study of the Earth’s crust, mantle and core. The kinetic energy of the Earth. Oceanography- Study of the chemistry, physics, structures of the ocean features and movement. Meteorology-Study of the chemistry and physics of the atmosphere. Astronomy- Study of the features of Universe.

Four Components of the Earth System Earth's spheres include: the geosphere, which 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, and the solid iron core (center) of the planet the hydrosphere, which contains all of the planet's solid, liquid, and gaseous water. the biosphere, which contains all of the planet's living organisms. the atmosphere, which contains all of the planet's air.

Objectives Knowledge of the connections and interactions that take place in the Earth System Application of the components of the Earth System

WTBW What is a system and how does this relate to the Earth? Give two examples of natural events and two examples of human driven events? What is a Geological Footprint? Why is it important that we look at the footprint being left and have an understanding of the Earth System?

Types of Interactions Interactions that occur as the result of events such as floods and forest fires impact only a local region. Meaning the flood waters can only travel so many miles from the original stream, and only the trees that lie within the area on fire will be burned. The effects of events such as El Nino or ozone depletion may cause interactions that can be observed worldwide.

                                                                                  

Why is this Important? Understanding the interactions that occur in the earth system also helps people to prepare for the effects of natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions and floods This understanding allows people to predict things; like how far and in what direction the lava/water will flow. Being able to predict outcomes is useful when, for example, developers wish to know the environmental effects of a project such as building an airport before they begin construction.

Humans need to understand Earth systems concepts because Earth is our only significant source of resources (earth materials, fuels, soils, water) is our only significant sink for wastes (air, water, and soil pollutants) provides invaluable ecosystem services (water and air purification) confronts us with natural hazards (earthquakes, volcanoes, floods)

Willis’ World 10,000 Walruses Explain your first reaction to the article: My first reaction was… I reacted this this way b/c… Another reason was… For these reasons… Based on the article, what would probably happen if this continues: What would happen is… One reason is… Furthermore… The end would now be…

A schematic model of circulation in the hydrosphere, driven by heat energy from the sun, which causes evaporation and heats the atmosphere. This model is over general: it doesn’t help us understand the hydrologic cycle any place in particular. Sun Energy H&C, Figure 2.4

Types of Connections The four types of connections are between the event and each of the earth's spheres: Event lithosphere Event hydrosphere Event biosphere Eventatmosphere

Other types of Interactions In addition to the above four event sphere interactions, Here are six other interactions that occur among the earth's spheres: lithosphere  hydrosphere lithosphere  biosphere lithosphere  atmosphere hydrosphere  biosphere hydrosphere  atmosphere biosphere  atmosphere