EARTH’S SYSTEMS
Name one of the main sources of energy that drive Earth’s processes?
The Sun/Earth’s interior heat
What is the difference between weather and climate?
Weather is short-term conditions; climate is long-term patterns
What is a natural hazard?
A natural event that can cause damage (earthquakes, floods, etc.)
What is one way humans negatively impact Earth?
Pollution, deforestation, habitat destruction
What is global warming?
The increase in Earth’s average temperature
What does it mean when matter “cycles” through Earth’s systems?
It moves and is reused between land, water, air, and living things
Name one factor that influences weather.
Sunlight, ocean, atmosphere, landforms, ice, or living things
Give one example of a natural hazard.
Earthquake, hurricane, flood, volcano, wildfire
What can happen when habitats are destroyed?
Species may go extinct
What gases are a major contributor to global warming?
Carbon dioxide and Methane
Name one Earth system involved in the movement of matter.
Atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, or biosphere
How does latitude affect climate?
Places near the equator are warmer; poles are colder
Why do scientists study past natural disasters?
To predict future events
Can human impacts ever be positive? Give an example.
Yes—conservation, recycling, renewable energy
What human activity releases greenhouse gases?
Burning fossil fuels/Combustion
What happens if more energy enters Earth than leaves it?
Earth warms (temperature increases)
How can mountains affect weather?
They block air movement and can cause precipitation on one side
What tool helps scientists understand hazard locations?
Maps
What happens as population and resource use increase?
Environmental impacts increase
What is one way to reduce climate change?
Use renewable energy, reduce emissions, conserve resources
What prevents some energy from leaving Earth’s atmosphere?
Greenhouse gases
What drives large-scale weather patterns?
Interactions between the ocean and atmosphere
What determines where hazards are likely to occur?
Geologic forces and past patterns
How can technology reduce environmental harm?
By creating cleaner energy and sustainable solutions
What helps people respond effectively to climate change?
Understanding science, engineering solutions, and human behavior