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KEY CONCEPT The biosphere is one of Earth’s four interconnected systems. The biosphere is the portion of Earth that is inhabited by life. The biosphere includes all ecosystems. one of Earth’s systems. includes the biota, all the living things in the biosphere.
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KEY CONCEPT The biosphere is one of Earth’s four interconnected systems.
The biosphere is the portion of Earth that is inhabited by life. • The biosphere includes all ecosystems. • one of Earth’s systems • includes the biota, all the living things in the biosphere
hydrosphere—water, ice, and water vapor • atmosphere—air blanketing Earth’s solid and liquid surface • geosphere—geologic features above and below Earth’s surface There are three other Earth systems.
KEY CONCEPT Climate is a key abiotic factor that affects the biosphere.
Climate is the prevailing weather of a region. • Climate is the long-term pattern of weather conditions. • average temperature • precipitation • relative humidity • Key factors shape an area’s climate. • temperature • sunlight • water • wind
Earth has three main climate zones. • The three main zones are the polar, tropical, and temperate climates. • polar climate: the far northernand southern regions ofEarth • tropical zone: surrounds the equator • temperate zone: the wide area in betweenthe polar and tropical zones
90o N polar temperate tropical temperate polar The angle of the Sun’s rays help determine an area’s climate.
Earth’s tilt on its axis plays a role in seasonal change. • Solar heating causes movements in both water and air. • wind • ocean currents • Earth’s rotation also has effects on the winds and currents
Landmasses shape inland climates. • larger changes in temperatures • less precipitation • Oceans shape coastal climates. • smaller changes in temperatures • higher humidity • more precipitation
western slope eastern slope • Precipitation occurs on the side of the mountain facing the wind. • On the downwind side, drier and cooler air produce a rain shadow. • A rain shadow is an area of decreased precipitation. • Mountains have an effect on climate.
Many organisms survive in a specific climate due to their adaptations.