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What is Whole Earth System Science? Whole Earth System Science Is… • The concept that the earth is comprised of interacting components or subsystems. The Main Systems • Biosphere = the realm of all living things on earth, including humans. • Geosphere = the realm of all non-living aspects of the earth. The geosphere is divided into 3 subsystems; – The lithosphere – The atmosphere – The hydrosphere The 4 Spheres Biosphere Hydrosphere Lithosphere Atmosphere The Biosphere “Life” sphere • The biosphere consists of the totality of life forms on earth. – This includes all plants, animals, and humans. The Lithosphere “Land” sphere • The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the earth that includes the crust and uppermost part of the mantle. The Atmosphere “Air” sphere • The atmosphere is the gaseous portion of the planet, the planets envelope of air. The Hydrosphere “Water” sphere • The hydrosphere is the water portion of the planet. – This includes all oceans, lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, snow, ice. The Cryosphere “Frozen” sphere • The cryosphere is the collective term for all the ice and snow on the earth.