Energy in the Earth System

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts of energy transfer, atmospheric science, and geological interactions from the Earth system lecture notes.

Electromagnetic Wave

A wave consisting of an electric field and a magnetic field.

Heat

The transfer of thermal energy from one object to another; it is not thermal energy itself.

Convection

The transfer of heat by movement of a fluid, through which thermal energy moves within the atmosphere.

Conduction

The transfer of heat between two substances that are in direct contact.

Radiation

The transfer of energy by electromagnetic waves.

Greenhouse Effect

The process in which heat from the sun gets trapped in the Earth like it would in a greenhouse.

CFCs

Chemicals that have damaged the ozone layer, allowing more UV light to pass through and harm life badly.

Sink Holes

Holes formed when weak parts in the Earth break.

Delta

A structure formed over years as sediment carried by water is deposited where it meets an ocean.

Sea Breezes

Breezes that occur during the day as solar radiation warms land faster than water.

Land Breezes

Breezes that occur at night as land cools faster than water.

Atmospheric Layers (Closest to Furthest)

Troposphere (closest), Stratosphere, and Thermosphere (farthest).

Geosphere (in a volcanic eruption)

The Earth system layer comprising molten rock, soil, and sediments that make up the Earth's crust and interior.

Atmosphere (in a volcanic eruption)

The air layer into which volcanoes release gases and water vapor when they erupt.