All parts of the Earth system are interlinked and interact with each other.
The Earth is a complex structure that consists of many interrelated natural systems. We use the broad term Earth System to describe these subsystems and their relationships to one another. The Earth system consists of five natural subsystems. These subsystems are the atmosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, biosphere, and geosphere.
All parts of the Earth system have a crucial role to play in the maintenance of the planet. Actions in one subsystem can often have unexpected repercussions in other subsystems. The actions of humans, for example, although only one component of the biosphere, can often end up affecting many, if not all, components of the Earth system.
What Do You Think?
The Impact of Humans
The view to the right in the main view panel clearly shows the impact of humans on the Earth.
- Rotate the globe and examine the distribution of the blobs of light.
- What do you predict is causing these blobs of light?
The blobs of light are caused by light pollution from cities.
- Verify your answer by zooming in on your home location on the globe.
- Was your prediction correct? If not, make a new prediction before going on to the next step.
Answer varies.
- Click here to see a good example in France of what is causing these blobs of light.