Physical geographers not only study the earth's physical systems but the connections between them. The four physical systems include the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere.
The atmosphere extends vertically from Earth's surface for several miles! It is made up of the gasses surrounding our planet, including the air we breathe.
The biosphere is made up of all of the living things found on Earth...this includes humans, plants, animals and even the smallest bacteria.
The hydrosphere contains all the water of the earth. The hydrosphere includes water in all of its forms: liquid, solid and gaseous.
The lithosphere is the non-living land we stand on. From the base of the ocean floor to the top of Mount Everest, the lithosphere makes up the foundation of everything on Earth. |
Can you identify how any of them are connected?
How would any changes in the balance of these systems affect our everyday lives?
How would any changes in the balance of these systems affect our everyday lives?