Earth's Subsystems Quiz

Questions and Answers

What is the primary composition of Earth's atmosphere?

80% oxygen, 20% argon

78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen (correct)

75% nitrogen, 25% oxygen

70% carbon dioxide, 30% nitrogen

Which statement accurately describes the biosphere?

It is primarily made up of non-photosynthetic organisms.

It is limited to terrestrial ecosystems only.

It encompasses all life forms on Earth. (correct)

It is only found in freshwater ecosystems.

What percentage of Earth's water is considered fresh water?

3% (correct)

10%

How does the atmosphere contribute to heat redistribution on Earth?

Through atmospheric circulation Signup and view all the answers

What role do oceans play in the carbon cycle?

They are sinks for CO2 through both direct and indirect processes. Signup and view all the answers

Which layer of Earth is referred to as the lithosphere?

The solid surface, including both continental and oceanic crust Signup and view all the answers

Who advocated for a holistic approach to understanding the Earth and the universe?

Friedrich Wilhelm Heinrich Alexander von Humboldt Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant feature of the hydrosphere?

It includes all forms of liquid water on Earth. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Earth's Subsystems

Atmosphere

Consists of a thin layer of gases encasing the lithosphere.
Composed of 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, 0.9% argon, and trace gases.
Facilitates heat redistribution on Earth's surface through atmospheric circulation.
Engages in a continuous exchange of heat and moisture with the hydrosphere via the hydrologic cycle.

Lithosphere

Refers to the solid outer layer of the Earth, commonly known as the crust.
Comprises both continental and oceanic crust alongside various internal layers.
Encompasses rocks from the crust and upper mantle, contributing to Earth's geology.

Biosphere

Represents all life forms on Earth, spanning various ecosystems.
Ranges from soil and rainforests to mangroves, coral reefs, and oceanic depths.
Photosynthetic organisms form the base of the food chain, utilizing CO2 and releasing oxygen.
Acts as a CO2 sink, integral to the carbon cycle and reliant on sunlight for energy.

Hydrosphere

Covers approximately 70% of Earth with liquid water, predominantly in oceans.
Only 3% of Earth's water is fresh; two-thirds exists as ice and one-third in streams, lakes, and groundwater.
Oceans serve as significant CO2 sinks through direct atmospheric exchange and rock weathering.
Ocean circulation plays a critical role in heat absorption and redistribution on Earth's surface.

Origin of Systems Approach to Earth Study

Friedrich Wilhelm Heinrich Alexander von Humboldt advocated for a holistic understanding of the universe, including Earth's systems.
The term "biosphere" was popularized by Russian-Ukrainian scientist Vladimir Vernadsky, positing life as a geological force.
Gaia Hypothesis, conceived in the 1970s by James Lovelock and Lynn Margulis, proposes that the biosphere self-regulates, influencing its physical and chemical environment.

Description

Test your knowledge on Earth's subsystems, focusing on the atmosphere and lithosphere. Learn about the composition of the atmosphere and the processes involved in heat distribution and moisture exchange. Understand the interconnections between different Earth systems.