Environmental Science Objectives – Chapter 3

1. Describe the composition and structure of the Earth.

2. Describe the Earth’s tectonic plates.

3. Explain the main cause of earthquakes and their effects.

4. Identify the relationship between volcanic eruptions and climate change.

5. Describe how wind and water alter the Earth’s surface.

6. Describe the composition of the Earth’s atmosphere.

7. Describe the layers of the Earth’s atmosphere.

8. Explain three mechanisms of heat transfer in Earth’s atmosphere.

9. Explain the greenhouse effect.

10. Name the three major processes in the water cycle.

11. Describe the properties of ocean water.

12. Describe the two types of ocean currents.

13. Explain how the ocean regulates Earth’s temperature.

14. Discuss the factors that confine life to the biosphere.

15. Explain the difference between open and closed systems.

Key Terms to Know

Geosphere

Crust

Mantle

Core

Lithosphere

Asthenosphere

Tectonic plate

Erosion

Atmosphere

Troposphere

Stratosphere

Ozone

Radiation

Conduction

Convection

Greenhouse effect

Water cycle

Evaporation

Condensation

Precipitation

Salinity

Fresh water

Biosphere

Closed system

Open system