Environmental Science Chapter 3 Outline and Study GuideSection 1 Objectives Describe the composition and structure of the Earth. Describe the Earth’s tectonic plates. Explain the main cause of earthquakes and their effects. Identify the relationship between volcanic eruptions and climate change. Describe how wind and water alter the Earth’s surface. Key Terms: geosphere, crust, mantle, core, lithosphere, asthenosphere, tectonic plate, erosion

Section 2 Objectives Describe the composition of the Earth’s atmosphere. Describe the layers of the Earth’s atmosphere. Explain three mechanisms of heat transfer in Earth’s atmosphere. Explain the greenhouse effect. Key Terms: atmosphere, troposphere, stratosphere, ozone, radiation, conduction, convection, greenhouse effect

Section 3 Objectives Name the three major processes in the water cycle. Describe the properties of ocean water. Describe the two types of ocean currents. Explain how the ocean regulates Earth’s temperature. Discuss the factors that confine life to the biosphere. Explain the difference between open and closed systems. Key Terms: water cycle, evaporation, condensation, precipitation, salinity, fresh water, biosphere, closed system, open system