Types of Systems
If matter can leave or enter a system, then it is considered an ________________ system
Open
What are the 4 main spheres of the Earth system?
Hydrosphere, Geosphere, Biosphere, Atmosphere
Corral bleaching is evidence of what change?
Water temperature rising
What is the biosphere?
All living things on Earth.
When energy can leave or enter a system, but matter cannot, then it is considered a _______________ system.
Closed
Rainwater washing away sediment on a hillside is primarily an interaction between which of Earth’s spheres?
Geosphere, Hydrosphere
How do some Earth scientists approach the study of Earth in order to explain natural events?
They study Earth as a system of interacting parts and processes
What is a phenomenon?
An observable event or natural process.
A lightbulb takes in electrical energy, and produces light. This is an example of a __________________________ system.
closed
A volcano erupts throwing ash, sediment, and debris into the sky. Which of Earth’s spheres are interacting?
Geosphere, Atmosphere
What evidence have scientists observed to support the claim that changes in Earth’s biosphere is related to changes in other systems on Earth?
The amount of arctic sea ice has decreased over the last 30 years
What is a model?
A small scale representation of something.
When a tree grows, it takes in sunlight, CO2, and water, and it releases O2, water, seeds, and leaves. This is an example of an ____________________ system
Open
Temperatures in Singapore hit an all time high, leading to excess evaporation from the nearby ocean. Which of Earth’s spheres are interacting?
Hydrosphere, Atmosphere
Why is it important for scientists to study multiple systems on Earth at the same time instead of studying them separately?
They can observe how parts of the different systems affect each other.
What is the median line for lines of latitude called?
The equator
Earth is mostly a closed system. Using your knowledge, explain why.
Solar energy from the sun can enter the atmosphere, and is reflected back into space. Matter is constantly recycled, but doesn't leave.
In 2010 a 7.0 magnitude earthquake hit Haiti, causing tsunamis around the world, and killing hundreds of thousands of people. Which of Earth’s spheres are interacting?
Biosphere, Hydrosphere, Geosphere
Scientists are studying how changes in water temperature affect a coral reef. What is a reason it would be more helpful to study this effect in an engineered submarine laboratory rather than studying the coral reef directly?
The measurements obtained would be more reliable.
What is the median line for lines of longitude called?
Prime meridian