Geosphere, Plate Tectonics, Biosphere & Their Interactions

Flashcards covering definitions and key concepts on the geosphere, plate tectonics, biosphere, ecosystems, biomes, and examples of geosphere–biosphere interactions.

What is the geosphere?

The solid outer section of Earth that includes the entire crust and the rigid upper mantle.

Is the geosphere a continuous layer? Why or why not?

No. It is broken into a number of huge plates that move relative to one another.

Who proposed the Pangaea theory and what does it state?

Alfred Wegener proposed that all continents were once joined in a single supercontinent called Pangaea which later broke apart and drifted apart.

Upon which softer layer do tectonic plates rest?

The asthenosphere.

Name the three main types of tectonic plate boundaries.

Convergent, Divergent, and Transform boundaries.

What happens at a convergent plate boundary?

Two plates move toward each other, often causing subduction or mountain building.

Describe a divergent plate boundary.

Two plates move apart from each other, allowing magma to rise and create new crust.

What characterizes a transform plate boundary?

Two plates slide horizontally past one another, often causing earthquakes.

List four major tectonic plates of the world.

Examples include the Pacific Plate, North American Plate, Eurasian Plate, and African Plate.

Give two examples of minor tectonic plates.

Juan de Fuca Plate and the Caribbean Plate.

Define the biosphere.

The global sum of all living organisms on Earth, including plants, animals, and microorganisms.

What is an ecosystem?

The interaction between a biotic community and its abiotic environment, including energy transfer and biogeochemical cycling.

How are biomes classified?

By predominant vegetation and the adaptations of the organisms present.

Name five major biomes.

Aquatic, Grassland, Forest, Desert, and Tundra.

How do plants demonstrate interaction between the geosphere and biosphere?

Plants obtain nutrients and anchorage from soil—part of the geosphere—enabling them to grow.

Give an example of animals modifying the geosphere.

Beavers build dams that alter waterways and create new ponds.

How can plant roots affect rocks?

Roots can grow into cracks and break rocks apart, contributing to erosion and soil formation.

Why is soil crucial for many organisms?

It provides nutrients and habitat for plants, which in turn support animal life.