Global Systems and Earth's Biomes Overview

Solstice

Poles tilted most toward or away from the sun.

Open System

Exchanges energy and matter, e.g., a forest.

Closed System

Exchanges energy only, matter remains constant.

Isolated System

No exchange of matter or energy occurs.

Biosphere

All living things and their supporting environment.

Atmosphere

Layer of gases surrounding Earth, primarily air.

Lithosphere

Solid Earth composed of rocks and minerals.

Hydrosphere

All water on Earth, constant in amount.

Insolation

Solar energy received by Earth's surface region.

Angle of Inclination

Earth's axial tilt of 23.5 degrees affects seasons.

Latitude

Imaginary lines parallel to the equator.

Equinox

Equal daylight and nighttime hours globally.

Angle of Incidence

Angle between sun's rays and surface perpendicular.

Albedo

Solar radiation reflected by a surface.

Greenhouse Gases

Gases retaining thermal energy from the sun.

Thermal Energy Transfer

Energy moves from high to low temperature.

Radiation

Energy emission as particles or waves.

Conduction

Energy transfer by direct contact, usually solids.

Convection

Energy transfer by particle movement in fluids.

Atmospheric Pressure

Pressure from air mass above a point.

Coriolis Effect

Deflection of objects due to Earth's rotation.

Climatograph

Graph showing precipitation and average temperature.

Tundra

Cold, arctic biome with permafrost soil.

Taiga/Boreal Forest

South of tundra, acidic soil, longer growing season.

Deciduous Forest

Fertile soil, moderate climate, diverse biotic community.

Grassland

Moderate precipitation, moisture-retaining soil.

Rain Forest

High precipitation, fertile soil, supports diverse life.

Desert

Low precipitation, thin soil, high daytime temperatures.