Page 52 - Geosystems An Introduction to Physical Geography 4th Canadian Edition

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Earth is often described as being made up of four "spheres"—the atmosphere, hydro- sphere, lithosphere, and biosphere. Geosystems views these spheres as Earth systems in which energy and matter flow within and among the systems' interacting parts. Analyzing
Earth systems in terms of their inputs, actions, and outputs helps you understand the Energy- Atmosphere system (GIA 1.1), Water, Weather, and Climate system (GIA 1.2), Earth- Atmosphere interface (GIA 1.3), and Soils, Ecosystems, and Biomes (GIA 1.4). In each case, you will see that the human–Earth relation is an integral part of Earth system interactions.
1.1
PART I: THE ENERGY– ATMOSPHERE SYSTEM
Incoming solar energy arrives at the top of Earth’s atmosphere, providing the energy input that drives Earth’s physical systems and influences our daily lives. The Sun is the ultimate energy source for most life processes in our biosphere. Earth’s atmosphere acts as an efficient filter, absorb-
ing most harmful radiation so that it does not reach Earth’s surface. Each of us depends on these interacting systems.
Biosphere
ATMOSPHERE
Chapters 2–6
Solar Energy to Earth and the Seasons Earth’s Modern Atmosphere
Atmosphere and Surface Energy Balances Global Temperatures
Atmospheric and Oceanic Circulations
Heat energy
Continental crust
Groundwater flow
The Dynamic Planet
Tectonics
Earthquakes and Volcanism Weathering, Karst Landscapes, and
Mass Movement
River Systems
Oceans, Coastal Systems, and Wind
Processes
Glacial and Periglacial Systems
TECTONIC CYCLE
PART III: THE EARTH–ATMOSPHERE INTERFACE
Earth is a dynamic planet whose surface is
changing. Two broad systems—endogenic
and exogenic—organize these agents in Part III.
In the endogenic system, internal processes
produce flows of heat and material from deep below
Earth’s crust. The exogenic system involves external
processes that set into motion air, water, and ice, all powered by solar energy. Thus, Earth’s surface is the interface between two vast open systems: one that builds the landscape and one that tears it down.
Chapters 12–17
1.3
LITHOSPHERE
Visit the Study Area in MasteringGeographyTM to explore Earth systems.
Visualize: Study geosciences animations of Earth’s Assess: Demonstrate understanding of Earth-system radiation balance, the hydrologic cycle, and the rock interactions (if assigned by instructor).
cycle.
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geosystems in action 1Exploring Earth SyStEmS
Subduction