The Study of Earth Science

Mrs. R. Williams

Big Ideas of Earth ScienceEarth Science is the study of the Earth we live in and our neighbors in space.

Earth scientists use several big ideas to guide their work:•The structure of the Earth system•Earth’s History•Earth in the Solar System

The Structure of the Earth System

Scientists often divide Earth into four parts, or spheres: the lithosphere (land), hydrosphere (water), atmosphere (air), and biosphere (life). These four spheres are not separate. They make up the Earth system. Changes in any part of the system can affect other parts.

Earth’s History

Scientists have evidence that Earth is 4.6 billion years old!

During this time, it has not remained the same.

Earth in the Solar System

Earth is not alone in space. It is part of the solar system. The solar system is made up of the sun and the planets-with their moons-that move around the sun.

The Branches of Earth ScienceThere are several branches of Earth science. We will be learning about:

Geology – the study of the solid Earth

Oceanography – the study of Earth’s oceans

Meteorology – the study of Earth’s atmosphere

Astronomy – the study of the universe beyond Earth

Environmental Science – the study of Earth’s environment and resources

-ology means

the study of

GeologyGeology is the study of the solid Earth. Geologists study the forces that have shaped Earth throughout its long history. They study the chemical and physical characteristics of rock.

OceanographyOceanography is the study of Earth’s oceans. Oceanographers study everything from the chemistry of ocean water to the shape of the ocean floor to living things in the ocean’s depths.

MeterologyMeteorology is the study of Earth’s atmosphere. Meteorologists do much more than just forecast the weather. They gather information about conditions in atmosphere from around the world.

AstronomyAstronomy is the study of universe beyond Earth. Astronomers focus on the solar system, observe stars and galaxies in an effort to understand the universe and its history.

Environmental ScienceEnvironmental Science is the study of Earth’s environment and resources. Environmental scientists work together to determine the effects of human activities on Earth’s land, air, water and living things. They try to solve problems, such as pollutions, that result from the use of resources.

Review1.What are the big ideas of Earth Science?

2.Why do scientists view Earth as a system?

3.Give an example how one of the spheres of the Earth system can affect at least one of the other spheres.

4.List the five braches of Earth science

5.What do geologists do?

6.What type of Earth scientist would probably study the effects human activities on coral reefs? Explain