Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources

These flashcards cover key concepts related to Earth systems, plate tectonics, soil formation, and atmospheric conditions, providing definitions and explanations to assist in understanding the subject.

Plate Tectonics

The theory that Earth's lithosphere is broken into plates that move over the asthenosphere.

Convergent Boundaries

Places where tectonic plates collide, causing mountains, volcanoes, earthquakes, and subduction zones.

Divergent Boundaries

Places where tectonic plates move apart, causing seafloor spreading and rift valleys.

Transform Boundaries

Places where plates slide past each other, commonly causing earthquakes.

Subduction

The process where one tectonic plate sinks beneath another.

Sea Floor Spreading

The creation of new crust at mid-ocean ridges.

Hot Spots

Stationary magma plumes that create volcanoes.

Epicenter

The surface location directly above the earthquake focus.

Weathering

The breakdown of rock into smaller particles.

Erosion

The transport of soil by wind, water, ice, or gravity.

Soil Horizons

Layers of soil that differ in composition and properties.

Porosity

The amount of pore space in soil.

Permeability

The ability of soil to absorb water.

Soil Texture Triangle

A tool used to classify soil based on texture.

Coriolis Effect

The deflection of wind due to Earth's rotation.

Insolation

Incoming solar radiation.

Albedo

The reflectivity of Earth's surface.

Rain Shadow Effect

The dry conditions on the leeward side of mountains.

El Niño

A climate pattern characterized by warmer Pacific waters and altered weather.

La Niña

A climate pattern associated with cooler Pacific waters and increased upwelling.