Spheres of the Earth

Atmosphere

Biosphere

Hydrosphere

Lithosphere

Atmosphere

• The Earth is surrounded by a blanket of air, which we call the atmosphere.

• It absorbs the energy from the Sun, recycles water and other chemicals and protects us from high-energy radiation.

• The envelope of gas surrounding the Earth changes from the ground up. Four distinct layers have been identified using thermal characteristics (temperature changes), chemical composition, movement, and density.

Layers of the Atmosphere

• Thermosphere—highest

• Mesosphere

• Stratosphere (contains ozone)

• Troposphere---layer we live in

Earth as a System

• Can you think of any other spheres that interact with the biosphere?

• Atmosphere?

• Hydrosphere?

• Lithosphere?

Hydrosphere• The hydrosphere includes all water on Earth.

Hydrosphere

Earth as a System

• Can you think of any other spheres that interact with the biosphere?

• Atmosphere?

• Biosphere?

• Lithosphere?

LithosphereThe lithosphere is the solid part of the Earth. (soil)

Earth as a system

• Can you think of any other spheres that interact with the atmosphere?

• Biosphere?

• Hydrosphere?

• Lithosphere?

Biosphere

• The term "Biosphere“ is the life zone of the Earth and includes all living organisms, including man, and all organic matter that has not yet decomposed.

Biotic vs. Abiotic• Bio = means life

• Biotic—living parts or components

• Abiotic—nonliving parts of components (air, water, temperature)