Chapter 1, Problem 1TYK

Summary Introduction

The Earth system that can be seen in the photo of Canadian Rockies and the way in which the Earth systems of the Canadian Rockies are interacting with each other.

Introduction:

The Earth system is a part of the solar system and is divided into four subsystems. Earth system science studies the interactions between the different spheres of the Earth and the effect of human activity on these systems.

Explanation of Solution

The four Earth systems are as follows:

• Atmosphere:

The atmosphere refers to an envelope formed by gases which surround the Earth.

• Biosphere:

The biosphere refers to the living material present on Earth.

• Hydrosphere:

The hydrosphere refers to the mass of water bodies found on Earth.

• Geosphere:

The geosphere refers to the inorganic materials, including rocks and land, which make up the bulk of Earth.

In the photo of Canadian Rocky Mountains, seen on the first page of the chapter, the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and the geosphere can be seen.

The Earth systems, the atmosphere, the geosphere, the biosphere and the hydrosphere interact with each other to disintegrate rock and organic matter. The organic matter is derived from the biosphere and the rocks are derived from the geosphere. Rock is broken down on exposure to air (atmosphere) and water (hydrosphere). Air and water is also present in the spaces between the rock particles.