Earth's Systems and Components

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Questions and Answers

What characterizes an open system?

Both energy and matter can exchange with the surroundings. (correct)
Only energy can enter and exit the system.
Matter is restricted from leaving the system.
Energy transfer is limited to what is forced through the system.

Which statement accurately describes a closed system?

Energy cannot be transferred but matter can.
Both energy and matter can pass freely.
Energy and matter are both restricted from entering or exiting.
Matter cannot be transferred, but energy can. (correct)

Which layer of the Earth is made primarily of rocks, soil, and minerals?

Biosphere
Hydrosphere
Lithosphere (correct)
Atmosphere

What is the primary source of energy for all life on Earth?

Solar radiation from the Sun (D) Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'albedo' refer to in the context of solar energy?

The reflection of solar energy by surfaces. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What does the biosphere encompass?

All parts of Earth where life exists (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about the Earth as a closed system is true?

Energy passes through while matter does not unless forced. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is primarily measured by albedo?

The fraction of solar energy reflected by various surfaces (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which layer of Earth surrounds and contains the gases essential for life?

Atmosphere (D) Signup and view all the answers

How much of the solar energy that reaches Earth is reflected away?

30% (A) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Open System

A system where both energy and matter can freely move in and out of the system. Imagine a lake where sunlight warms the water (energy in), rain adds water (matter in), and heat is released to the atmosphere (energy out).

Closed System

A system where matter cannot enter or leave, but energy can move freely. Imagine the Earth, where sunlight provides energy, but rocks and water stay on the planet.

Biosphere

The sum of all life on Earth, including all ecosystems. Imagine all plants, animals, and microorganisms interacting across the planet.

Lithosphere

The solid, outermost layer of the Earth, composed of rocks, soil, and minerals. Think of the ground beneath your feet, including mountains and valleys.

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Albedo

The total amount of solar energy reflected back to space by clouds, water, and land. Think of a mirror reflecting sunlight back to its source.

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Intraspecific Interaction

The interactions between organisms of the same species. Think of a wolf pack hunting together or a group of ants working together to build a nest.

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Interspecific Interaction

Interactions between organisms of different species. Think of a lion hunting a zebra or a bee pollinating a flower.

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Study Notes

Open and Closed Systems

Open System: Energy and matter can freely transfer between the system and its surroundings. This means energy and matter can move between the system and its surroundings. Examples include a lake or ocean, where heat and matter can freely enter and leave the system.
Closed System: Matter cannot transfer between the system and its surroundings, but energy can. The Earth is an example as energy passes through the atmosphere but matter usually does not (with exceptions).

Earth's Components

Biosphere: All the areas on Earth where life exists (all ecosystems).
Lithosphere: Earth's solid outer layer, mainly composed of soil, rocks, and minerals.
Hydrosphere: All of Earth's water.
Atmosphere: Earth's surrounding gases.

The Sun and Energy

Solar Radiation: Primary energy source for life on Earth.
Energy Distribution:
- 50% absorbed by Earth's surface.
- 30% reflected.
- 20% absorbed by the atmosphere.