Earth Systems

JULIE ROSE D. APDOHAN

Faculty, Environmental Science
Learning Objectives

• Define the concept of a system;

• Recognize the Earth as a system composed of
subsystems; and
• Determine how the different subsystems are interacting
and affecting one another.
Prompt Question

What is a system?
• An open system is a system that freely
exchanges energy and matter with its surroundings.
• A closed system is a system that exchanges only
energy with its surroundings, not matter.
The Earth is an open and closed system
The Earth’s Subsystem
What are interconnected spheres?
• Spheres are closely connected
• A change in one sphere results in changes
in others – called an event
– Forest fire destroys plants in an area
• Interactions between spheres
– No plants => erosion
– Soil in water => increased turbidity
– Turbidity => impacts water plants/animals
How do Earth’s Spheres Interact?
• Matter and Energy
– 1. By exchange of matter
• Water cycle
– Water evaporates into the atmosphere
– Water condenses forming clouds
• Nitrogen Cycle
– Bacteria release nitrogen into the soil from
the atmosphere
– Plants use nitrogen to grow
How do Earth’s Spheres Interact?
• Matter and Energy
▪ 2. By exchange of energy
• Moves back and forth between spheres
• Plants use solar energy to make food
• Animals eat plants for energy
• Solar energy
–Drives winds and weather
Everything is interconnected and interrelated