NW

Geo key words terminology list

  • Hydrosphere – All the water on Earth (oceans, rivers, lakes, glaciers, and moisture in the air).

  • Lithosphere – The solid outer layer of the Earth, including rocks, soil, and landforms.

  • Atmosphere – The layer of gases surrounding Earth, essential for weather and climate.

  • Biosphere – All living things on Earth and the ecosystems they form.

  • Qualitative data – Descriptive information (e.g. colours, textures, opinions).

  • Quantitative data – Numerical information (e.g. temperature, population size).

  • Habitat loss – The destruction or disturbance of natural environments where species live.

  • Biodiversity – The variety of living species in an area (plants, animals, microbes).

  • Conservation – Protecting and preserving natural environments and wildlife.

  • Biome – A large ecosystem with similar climate, plants, and animals (e.g. rainforest, desert).

  • Mitigate – To reduce the severity or impact of something (like climate change).

  • Adapt – To adjust to new conditions (e.g. animals or humans changing with the environment).

  • Manage – To control or handle a situation to reduce harm or improve outcomes.

  • Threatened species – Animals or plants at risk of becoming endangered.

  • Urban heat island – When urban areas are hotter than nearby rural areas due to human activity.

  • Green roof – A roof covered in plants that reduces heat and improves air quality.