Earth Science Lecture Overview

These flashcards cover the major concepts, facts, and theories presented in the Earth Science lecture, providing a comprehensive review for exam preparation.

What is the focus of Earth Science?

The study of Earth and its processes, including how the planet changes and how those changes affect life.

Name the four classical main branches of Earth Science.

Geology, Meteorology, Oceanography, and Astronomy (Environmental Science is sometimes included).

What does Geology study?

The solid Earth—its rocks, minerals, and the processes that shape them.

What does Meteorology study?

Earth’s atmosphere and weather patterns.

What does Oceanography study?

Earth’s oceans, including their composition, movement, and ecosystems.

What does Astronomy study?

Space beyond Earth, including stars, planets, and galaxies.

What does Environmental Science examine when included in Earth Science?

The interactions between humans and the Earth’s systems.

Why is studying Earth Science important for natural disasters?

It helps us understand natural disasters and how to prepare for them.

How does Earth Science help with resource management?

It aids in protecting and managing natural resources wisely.

What career-related benefit comes from studying Earth Science?

It opens pathways to careers in science, engineering, and sustainability.

Approximately how old is Earth?

About 4.5 billion years.

How many continents are on Earth?

Seven—Africa, Antarctica, Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, and South America.

Where is most of Earth’s gold located?

In the planet’s core.

What is the outermost layer of Earth’s atmosphere?

The exosphere.

What word describes space rocks that land on Earth’s surface?

Meteorites.

What is the second most abundant gas in the air we breathe?

Oxygen (about 20.95 %).

Where are the oldest rocks in the Grand Canyon found?

At the bottom of the canyon.

What was the name of the supercontinent during the late Paleozoic era?

Pangaea.

How old is the Universe estimated to be?

Approximately 13.8 billion years.

Big Bang misconception: What did not actually happen?

A single explosion—space appeared simultaneously everywhere instead.

Name one piece of evidence supporting the Big Bang theory.

The Cosmic Microwave Background (other evidence includes redshift and elemental abundances).

What cosmic radiation is a remnant of the early universe?

The Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB).

What phenomenon shows galaxies are moving away from us, supporting universal expansion?

Redshift (observed via the Doppler effect).

Which hypothesis explains the formation of the Sun and planets from a rotating gas cloud?

The Nebular Theory or Protoplanet Hypothesis.

Give one proponent of the Nebular Theory.

Immanuel Kant (others include Emanuel Swedenborg and Pierre-Simon Laplace).

According to the Nebular Theory, what formed from the remaining disc after the Sun?

The planets, through the accretion of dust and solid matter.

What giant impact is thought to have formed Earth’s Moon?

A collision between Earth and a large object early in the planet’s history.

What shape best describes Earth today?

An oblate spheroid—slightly flattened at the poles and bulging at the equator.

Approximately how thick is Earth’s atmosphere?

About 100 miles (160 kilometres).

Within what temperature range can liquid water – and thus life – generally exist?

Roughly −15 °C to 115 °C.

Why is a steady source of energy essential for life?

It powers the chemical reactions necessary for living cells.

How do Earth’s water cycle and volcanic activity sustain life?

They transport and replenish vital nutrients needed by organisms.

List four key factors that make Earth habitable.

A protective atmosphere, suitable temperature range, continuous energy source (light or chemical), and available nutrients.