Unit 1: Introduction to Earth and Environmental Science
Welcome to Earth and Environmental Science! Here, we'll discuss our goals for this course, what we're expected to learn, and how we'll learn about these important ideas - for now and in the future.
Water is the only substance on Earth that is naturally present in all different states of matter. This is because water plays an important role in every ecosystem on the planet. Why is water so important to life on Earth and the way our planet works?
Where is Earth located in Space? How is it connected to the other parts of our solar system, galaxy, and universe? How does our planet's relationship with its sun and moon impact us and Earth's environments?
The gases that form the protective layer around the planet that we call the "atmosphere" are one of the few things that set Earth apart from its neighbors in the solar system. Without this atmosphere, our planet would be lifeless and waterless - like Mars. How else is our atmosphere important?
Earth's geosphere contains all the solid land, rock, and material that makes up the physical surface and core of our planet. It's on the move and, in order to understand how, we better catch up!
Life on Earth survives in a delicate balance with the planet's natural resources and systems, but this balance is constantly being threatened by human actions and our daily choices. How do different environments and ecosystems respond to the impacts of humans? What can we do?