Earth Science Basics
This branch of Earth science studies rocks, minerals, and Earth's solid surface.
What is geology?
The four main directions on a compass are called these.
What are cardinal direction?
This map feature explains what symbols mean.
What is a legend (key)?
The star at the center of our solar system.
What is the sun?
This scientist studies earthquakes.
What is a seismologist?
This branch of Earth science studies Earth's atmosphere and weather.
What is meteorology?
If you are facing north and turn 180°, what direction are you facing?
What is south?
This map feature helps determine which way is north.
What is a compass rose?
This object orbits Earth and affects tides.
What is the Moon?
This scientist studies weather and storms.
What is a meteorologist?
Name two of the major branches of Earth science.
Geology, Meteorology, Oceanography, Astronomy
This imaginary line divides Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
What is the Equator?
A map scale says 1 cm = 10 km. Two cities are 5 cm apart on the map. How far apart are they in real life?
What is 50 km?
Why do scientists use satellites to study Earth?
To collect data and observe large areas of Earth.
A scientist uses satellites to track hurricanes. What career might they have?
What is meteorologist or atmospheric scientist?
Explain why Earth science is important to everyday life.
(ans vary)
A location is 20° north of the Equator. Is this latitude or longitude?
What is latitude?
A map showing mountains, valleys, rivers, and plains is called this type of map.
What is a physical map?
A student claims the Moon produces its own light. Explain why this is incorrect.
The Moon reflects sunlight; it does not produce light.
A company wants to build homes near a volcano. Which Earth science specialist should they consult and why?
A volcanologist or geologist because they study volcanic hazards and risks.
A scientist studies how ocean currents affect coastal weather. Which two branches of Earth science are involved?
Oceanography and Meteorology
You travel east for several hours. Which coordinate system measurement changes the most: latitude or longitude?
What is longitude?
Contour lines on a topographic map are very close together. What does this tell you about the land?
It is very steep.
How does studying space help scientists better understand Earth?
Satellites provide information about weather, climate, landforms, oceans, and environmental changes.
A city is worried about flooding from nearby rivers. Which Earth science career would be most helpful?
What is a hydrologist?