EARTH AND LIFE SCIENCE

Module 2: SUBSYSTEMS OF THE EARTH

OBJECTIVES:

A. Determine the four subsystems of the Earth;

B. Describe the characteristics of each subsystems;
C. Trace the flow of matter and energy in Earth’s subsystems; and
D. Express one’s internalized role as steward of the four subsystems concerning the flow of
matter and energy.
Atmosphere
• The gaseous layer above the Earth’s surface primarily
composed gases such as Nitrogen (78%), Oxygen (21%),
and other gases (1%) like carbondioxide and water vapor.
• The atmosphere supports life because animals need
oxygen and plants need carbon dioxide.
• The atmosphere supports life indirectly by regulating
climate. Air acts as both a blanket and a filter, retaining
heat at night and shielding from direct solar radiation
during the day.
Hydrosphere
• The water part of the Earth that includes ocean and
glaciers etc.
• The frozen part of the Earth’s hydrosphere is made of ice:
glaciers, ice caps and icebergs. The frozen part of the
hydrosphere has its own name, the cryosphere. Water
moves through the hydrosphere in a cycle. Water collects in
clouds, then falls to Earth in the form of rain or snow.
Lithosphere (Geosphere)
• The solid part of the Earth that consist the entire planet
from the center of the core to the outer crust. It includes
core, mantle and crust of the Earth.
Biosphere
• The zone of the Earth where oil forms of life exist. This
serve as the ecosystem of all living things.