How the earth systems work • What is air made up of of • What are the earth's ecospehere Hydrosphere Lithosphere Biosphere Atmosphere • Different cycles of matter Carbon Cycle Oxygen Cycle Hydrogen Cycle Nitrogen Cycle Phosphorous Cycle • How human activities are causing changes in atmosphere over period of time? • What are the different types of tectonic plate movements and their effects? • To what extent is it possible to use science to prevent or reduce natural disasters?

What gas makes up the majority of the atmosphere?

Nitrogen, which constitutes approximately 78 ext{%}.

What is the second most abundant gas in the atmosphere?

Oxygen, making up about 21 ext{%}.

What are the four spheres of Earth?

Hydrosphere, Lithosphere, Atmosphere, and Biosphere.

Define the Hydrosphere.

The sphere of Earth that encompasses all water, including oceans, rivers, lakes, and water vapor.

What is the Lithosphere?

The solid outer part of the Earth, consisting of rock.

What is the Atmosphere?

The layer of gases surrounding the Earth.

What does the Biosphere represent?

The sphere that contains all living organisms and their interactions.

What cycles were discussed as crucial for ecosystem balance?

The Carbon, Oxygen, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Hydrogen cycles.

How do elements move through different spheres?

Through various biogeochemical cycles that maintain ecological balance.

What human activity has altered the carbon cycle?

The burning of fossil fuels.

What is a major consequence of altering the carbon cycle?

Contributing to global warming.

What are Divergent boundaries?

Boundaries where tectonic plates move apart from each other.

What is a Convergent boundary?

A boundary where tectonic plates move towards each other, often forming mountains.

Define Transform boundaries.

Boundaries where tectonic plates slide past one another, often causing earthquakes.

What geographical features are a result of plate movements?

Mountains and other geological formations.

What role does technology play in natural disaster mitigation?

Monitoring geological activity to predict disasters.

What is a limitation of science regarding natural disasters?

Science cannot prevent natural disasters, only reduce their impact.

What is the primary component of the atmosphere in terms of gas composition?

Nitrogen, constituting about 78 ext{%}.

List the five cycles discussed that maintain ecological balance.

Carbon, Oxygen, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Hydrogen cycles.

How do the spheres of Earth interact?

They work together to support ecosystems and life.

What impact do fossil fuels have on atmospheric composition?

They increase carbon dioxide levels, affecting global warming.

What is one example of a natural disaster caused by tectonic activity?

Earthquakes.

What does assessment of technology in natural disasters involve?

Evaluating its role in monitoring and reducing the impact of disasters.

Why is the study of the atmosphere important?

It helps to understand the composition of air and its effects on life.

Describe the role of the Biosphere.

It includes all organisms and their interactions with the environment.

What is the significance of studying matter cycles?

To maintain the balance of elements essential for life.

How does human impact affect natural cycles?

It disrupts the natural balance of elements like carbon.

What are the main features of convergent boundaries?

They can create mountains or lead to tectonic activity like earthquakes.

Why is recycling matter in ecosystems necessary?

To ensure sustainability and continuous availability of essential elements.

What is the consequence of tectonic plate movements?

The formation of geographical features and occurrence of natural disasters.

What are trace gases and why are they significant?

Gases present in very small amounts that can have significant environmental effects.