Chapter 23, Problem 1RQ

To determine

The term Earth System.

Answer to Problem 1RQ

The term “Earth system” refers to the interaction between atmosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, geosphere, pedosphere, and biosphere reservoirs of the Earth.

Explanation of Solution

At the surface of the Earth, the interaction between many components of the Earth system takes place; the lithosphere constitutes the soil, sediment, and rock; the hydrosphere  constitutes the liquid water in oceans, lakes, streams, and groundwater; the cryosphere constitutes the solid water of glaciers; and the atmosphere constitutes the planet's gaseous envelope.

The biosphere denotes the innumerable species of life ranging from invisible bacteria to massive whales and trees. There are two dynamic exchanges of energy fuel that happen between the reservoirs of the Earth system; they include external energy from solar radiation and internal energy from the Earth’s interior.