Earth Subsystems

DON BOSCO TECHNICAL INSTITUTE OF VICTORIAS INC.
VICMICO, Victorias City, 6119 Negros Occidental, Philippines

Senior High School Department | School Year 2023–2024
EARTH
SUBSYSTEMS
Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics 11
Chapter 1: Earth and Space
Prepared by: Lord William B. Pacurib
OBJECTIVES
Earth Subsystems
• Explain the flow of matter
and energy between the
geosphere, atmosphere,
hydrosphere, and
biosphere.
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INTRODUCTION
Earth Subsystems
How do the oceans, air,

land, and living
organisms connect and
influence each other?

INTRODUCTION
Earth Subsystems
As seen from space, the most prominent features of
Earth are the swirling white or graying clouds, the
vast blue oceans, and the brown and green
continents.
• These features make up the atmosphere,
hydrosphere, and geosphere, respectively.
• The continuous interaction among these three
spheres supports the sphere of life – the
biosphere.

LESSON PROPER
Earth Subsystems
Earth subsystems refer to
interconnected and distinct
components of the Earth,
including the land, air, water,
and living organisms, which
interact to shape the planet's
processes and phenomena.

LESSON PROPER
Hydrosphere
The hydrosphere
refers to all the water on
Earth's surface,
including oceans, lakes,
rivers, groundwater, and
glaciers.

LESSON PROPER
Components of the Hydrosphere
An ocean is a vast body of
saltwater that covers a
significant portion of the
Earth's surface, connecting
continents and playing a
crucial role in regulating the
planet's climate and supporting
diverse ecosystems.

LESSON PROPER
A sea is a large body of
saltwater that is partially
enclosed by land and
connected to an ocean. Seas
are often smaller than oceans
and can vary in size, depth, and
geographical features.
LESSON PROPER
A river is a natural
watercourse, typically
flowing from higher
ground to lower levels,
characterized by a
continuous flow of water
within a defined channel.

LESSON PROPER
Groundwater refers to the water
present beneath the Earth's surface in
soil pores and rock fractures.
It plays a crucial role in supplying

water to wells, springs, and supporting
ecosystems by contributing to
streamflow and maintaining water
levels in lakes and wetlands.

LESSON PROPER
Water Cycle
The water cycle, also known
as the hydrological cycle, is a
continuous process through
which water evaporates from
Earth's surface, rises into the
atmosphere, condenses into
clouds, and then falls back as
precipitation, replenishing
bodies of water and sustaining
life.

LESSON PROPER
Processes in Water Cycle
Evaporation is the process by
which liquid water is converted
into water vapor due to the
absorption of heat energy from its
surroundings, usually from the
sun. This vapor then rises into the
atmosphere, contributing to the
overall movement of water through
Earth's ecosystems and weather
patterns.

LESSON PROPER
Condensation refers to the
process by which water vapor, a
gaseous state of water, cools
and transforms into liquid water
droplets when it comes into
contact with cooler surfaces or
air. This phenomenon plays a
crucial role in the formation of
clouds and precipitation.

LESSON PROPER
Precipitation refers to the
process by which condensed water
vapor in the atmosphere forms into
larger droplets or ice crystals and
falls to the Earth's surface. This can
include various forms such as rain,
snow, sleet, or hail, and is a crucial
stage in the water cycle as it
returns water from the atmosphere
back to the land and oceans.

LESSON PROPER
Water Cycle’s Role in Transferring
Energy and Matter
Water cycle plays a vital role

in transferring both energy and
matter, as the phase changes of
water release latent heat during
condensation and absorb heat
during evaporation, influencing
weather patterns and
redistributing water and
nutrients across the planet.

INTERACTION
Can You Name It?
Label the following water
bodies.
1. Which vast and mysterious

expanse covers more than
70% of the Earth's surface Pacific
and holds countless
secrets within its depths?

INTERACTION
Can You Name It?
Label the following water bodies.
2. Which flows gracefully

through valleys and
nourishing surrounding lands,
and is often celebrated as a
lifeline of civilizations while Nile
being a subject of numerous
myths and stories?

INTERACTION
Can You Name It?
Baikal
Label the following water bodies.
3. Which natural feature, often

surrounded by serene
landscapes and serving as a
vital source of freshwater,
mirrors the sky's beauty in
its calm waters?

LESSON PROPER
Atmosphere
The atmosphere is the layer of
gases that surrounds Earth, held in
place by Earth’s gravity.
It plays a crucial role in protecting

and sustaining life by regulating
temperature, carrying weather
patterns, and containing essential
gases for respiration.

LESSON PROPER
Layers of the Atmosphere
The troposphere is the lowest
layer of Earth's atmosphere,
extending from the surface up to an
average height of about 8 to 15
kilometers.
It is where weather events occur and

contains most of the atmosphere's
water vapor and clouds.

LESSON PROPER
The stratosphere is the second
major layer of Earth's atmosphere,
situated above the troposphere and
below the mesosphere.
It contains the ozone layer, which

plays a crucial role in absorbing and
protecting against the majority of the
sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation.

LESSON PROPER
The mesosphere is the third layer of
Earth's atmosphere, situated above the
stratosphere and below the thermosphere.
It is characterized by its decreasing

temperature with increasing altitude and is
the region where most meteors burn up
upon entry due to its high atmospheric
pressure.

LESSON PROPER
The thermosphere is located below
the exosphere, characterized by
extremely high temperatures due to
absorption of intense solar radiation.
Despite the high temperatures, the

thermosphere's low density results in the
sensation of coldness for objects within
it.

LESSON PROPER
The exosphere is the outermost
layer of Earth's atmosphere,
extending beyond the
thermosphere and merging into
space.
In the exosphere, gas molecules

are very sparse and can travel long
distances before colliding with
another molecule.

LESSON PROPER
Greenhouse Effect
The greenhouse effect is a natural
process in which certain gases in Earth's
atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide and
water vapor, trap heat from the sun,
preventing it from escaping back into space.
This process is essential for maintaining a

stable temperature on Earth but can become
intensified by human activities, leading to
global warming and climate change.

INTERACTION
Greenhouse Effect
How do you think

greenhouse effect
impacts Earth's
temperature?

LESSON PROPER
Lithosphere
The lithosphere (geosphere) refers
to the rigid, outermost layer of Earth's
surface, encompassing the crust and a
portion of the upper mantle.
It is characterized by its solid and

rocky composition and is divided into
tectonic plates that interact through
movements such as plate tectonics.

LESSON PROPER
Processes that Shape the Lithosphere
Erosion is the natural process by
which wind, water, ice, or other agents
gradually wear away and transport soil,
rock, or sediment from one location to
another, reshaping landscapes over time.
It plays a significant role in shaping

Earth's surface features and altering
landforms.

LESSON PROPER
Volcanic activity refers to the
processes and phenomena that occur
when molten rock, ash, and gases
escape from a volcano's vent onto the
Earth's surface or into the atmosphere.
It includes events such as eruptions,

lava flows, and the release of volcanic
gases.

LESSON PROPER
Plate tectonics explains the
movement and interactions of the Earth's
lithospheric plates, which make up the
outer shell of the planet.
These plates float on the semi-fluid

asthenosphere below and are responsible
for the formation of continents, ocean
basins, earthquakes, and volcanic
activity.

LESSON PROPER
Biosphere
The biosphere refers to the interconnected realm on Earth
where living organisms thrive and interact with their
environment, encompassing various ecosystems and habitats.
It includes everything from the

depths of oceans to the
highest mountains, where life
can exist and flourish.

INTERACTION
Organisms
Classify the following organisms as producers, consumers, or
decomposers:
BACTERIA
DECOMPOSER
________________

INTERACTION
Organisms
decomposers:
LION
CONSUMER
________________

INTERACTION
Organisms
decomposers:
OAK TREE
PRODUCER
________________

INTEGRATION
Propose your Solution!
Group yourselves into three and think of a solution for the scenario assigned to
you:
GROUP 1: A city is rapidly growing and is expanding its
infrastructure through extensive urbanization and
construction projects, affecting the lithosphere. Due to
these activities, large areas of previously untouched
land are being cleared for building purposes, resulting
in altered landscapes, disrupted habitats, and increased
soil erosion. Given this situation, what needs to be done
to mitigate harmful consequences to the environment?

INTEGRATION
you:
GROUP 2: A coastal town heavily relies on fishing and
tourism. Recently, a large industrial complex has been
established nearby, discharging untreated waste directly
into the ocean, and affecting the hydrosphere. As a result,
fish populations are dwindling, and tourists have been
complaining about the foul smell and visibly polluted waters.
How can you address these challenges, and what needs to
be done to mitigate harmful consequences to the
environment?

INTEGRATION
you:
GROUP 3: A city is heavily reliant on coal-fired
power plants for electricity generation. Over the
past few years, residents have noticed an
increase in smog, respiratory illnesses, and
unusually warm winters. Local scientists
attribute these issues to the burning of fossil
fuels. What needs to be done to mitigate harmful
consequences to the environment?

VALUES INTEGRATION
Reflection on the Interconnectedness of Earth’s
Subsystems
The Earth subsystems interact with one another in a complex and

interconnected manner to sustain life. Each plays a crucial role in
maintaining the delicate balance necessary for life to thrive.
The lithosphere provides a solid foundation for the biosphere,

while the atmosphere and hydrosphere regulate temperature,
provide essential gases and nutrients, and support diverse
ecosystems.
This intricate web of interactions highlights the intrinsic value of

each subsystem and emphasizes the need for holistic approaches
to environmental stewardship (cf. Laudato Si, 140, 138, 38).

VALUES INTEGRATION
On the Care for the Subsystems
Caring for the Earth's subsystems is a moral obligation and
a sign of our concern for all people, especially the poor who
suffer the gravest effects of environmental degradation
(FCFC 51).
• Pope Francis has emphasized the connection between
the celebration of the Eucharist and care for the
environment, stating that all creation gives glory to God
and journeys toward union with the Creator
• Pope Benedict XVI also highlighted the need to respect
nature and develop a correct relationship with the
environment in everyday life, recognizing that the Earth
is a precious gift of the Creator

SHORT QUIZ
Multiple Choices. Choose the letter of the correct answer.
1. Which of the following best describes the

geosphere?
a. The layer of gases surrounding the Earth
b. The collection of all living organisms on Earth
c. The solid, rocky part of Earth, including the
crust and mantle
d. The global system of interconnected rivers
and lakes

SHORT QUIZ
2. What is the primary source of energy that

drives Earth's atmospheric processes?
a. Geothermal heat from the Earth's core
b. Radioactive decay in the mantle
c. Solar radiation from the Sun
d. Tidal forces from the Moon

SHORT QUIZ
3. How does the hydrosphere play a role in

regulating Earth's temperature?
a. By releasing volcanic gases into the
atmosphere
b. By absorbing excess heat from the Sun
c. By causing earthquakes and tsunamis
d. By influencing the rotation of the Earth

SHORT QUIZ
4. In the biosphere, what role do producers

(plants) play in the flow of matter and
energy?
a. They absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere
b. They release oxygen into the atmosphere through
photosynthesis
c. They extract nutrients from the geosphere
d. They regulate ocean currents and tides

SHORT QUIZ
5. Which process involves the exchange of

water between the hydrosphere,
atmosphere, and biosphere?
a. Volcanic eruptions
b. Fossil fuel combustion
c. Evaporation and condensation
d. Plate tectonics

SHORT QUIZ
1. Which of the following best describes the

geosphere?
a. The layer of gases surrounding the Earth
b. The collection of all living organisms on Earth
c. The solid, rocky part of Earth, including the
crust and mantle
d. The global system of interconnected rivers
and lakes

SHORT QUIZ
2. What is the primary source of energy that

drives Earth's atmospheric processes?
a. Geothermal heat from the Earth's core
b. Radioactive decay in the mantle
c. Solar radiation from the Sun
d. Tidal forces from the Moon

SHORT QUIZ
3. How does the hydrosphere play a role in

regulating Earth's temperature?
a. By releasing volcanic gases into the
atmosphere
b. By absorbing excess heat from the Sun
c. By causing earthquakes and tsunamis
d. By influencing the rotation of the Earth

SHORT QUIZ
4. In the biosphere, what role do producers

(plants) play in the flow of matter and
energy?
a. They absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere
b. They release oxygen into the atmosphere through
photosynthesis
c. They extract nutrients from the geosphere
d. They regulate ocean currents and tides

SHORT QUIZ
5. Which process involves the exchange of

water between the hydrosphere,
atmosphere, and biosphere?
a. Volcanic eruptions
b. Fossil fuel combustion
c. Evaporation and condensation
d. Plate tectonics

SUMMARY
Earth Subsystems
1. Lithosphere: The rigid outer layer of Earth, consisting of the
crust and upper mantle, where solid geological processes
occur.
2. Hydrosphere: The entirety of Earth's water in various forms,
including oceans, lakes, rivers, glaciers, and groundwater.
3. Atmosphere: The layer of gases surrounding Earth that
supports life and influences weather patterns and climate.
4. Biosphere: The part of Earth where living organisms exist,
including land, water, and the atmosphere, where
interactions create complex ecosystems.

Earth Subsystems

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DON BOSCO TECHNICAL INSTITUTE OF VICTORIAS INC.

VICMICO, Victorias City, 6119 Negros Occidental, Philippines

Where Soul Meets Technology

How do the oceans, air,

Where Soul Meets Technology

Where Soul Meets Technology

Where Soul Meets Technology

Where Soul Meets Technology

Where Soul Meets Technology

Where Soul Meets Technology

It plays a crucial role in supplying

Where Soul Meets Technology

Where Soul Meets Technology

Where Soul Meets Technology

Where Soul Meets Technology

Where Soul Meets Technology

Water cycle plays a vital role

Where Soul Meets Technology

1. Which vast and mysterious

Where Soul Meets Technology

2. Which flows gracefully

Where Soul Meets Technology

3. Which natural feature, often

Where Soul Meets Technology

It plays a crucial role in protecting

Where Soul Meets Technology

It is where weather events occur and

Where Soul Meets Technology

It contains the ozone layer, which

Where Soul Meets Technology

It is characterized by its decreasing

Where Soul Meets Technology

Despite the high temperatures, the

Where Soul Meets Technology

In the exosphere, gas molecules

Where Soul Meets Technology

This process is essential for maintaining a

Where Soul Meets Technology

How do you think

Where Soul Meets Technology

It is characterized by its solid and

Where Soul Meets Technology

It plays a significant role in shaping

Where Soul Meets Technology

It includes events such as eruptions,

Where Soul Meets Technology

These plates float on the semi-fluid

Where Soul Meets Technology

It includes everything from the

Where Soul Meets Technology

Where Soul Meets Technology

Where Soul Meets Technology

Where Soul Meets Technology

Where Soul Meets Technology

Where Soul Meets Technology

Where Soul Meets Technology

The Earth subsystems interact with one another in a complex and

The lithosphere provides a solid foundation for the biosphere,

This intricate web of interactions highlights the intrinsic value of

Where Soul Meets Technology

Where Soul Meets Technology

1. Which of the following best describes the

Where Soul Meets Technology