11

Earth and Life

Science
Quarter 1 – Module 1:
Characteristics of Earth as
Habitable Planet and Earth’s
Su GOVERNMENT PROPERTY

NOT FOR SALE

Lesson Characteristics of Earth as
1 Habitable Planet

Hello! Welcome to the world of Science. Never let COVID-19 disconnect you
from the world of knowledge. This module is designed to help you keep going and never
stop from learning. This contains a variety of friendly activities to support your journey
towards learning. Simply follow the instructions and perform the series of arranged
activities; for sure, you’ll go a long way in this voyage.
After going through this module, you are expected to:
1. describe the characteristics of Earth that are necessary to support life (S11ES-Ia-
b-3); and
2. explain that the Earth consists of four subsystems, across whose boundaries matter
and energy flow (S11ES-Ib-4).

The solar system is located in the Milky Way galaxy, a huge disc- and spiral-shaped
aggregation of about at least 100 billion stars and other bodies. Its spiral arms rotate around a
globular cluster or bulge of many, many stars, at the center of which lies a supermassive
blackhole. This galaxy is about 100 million light years across (1 light year = 9.4607 × 10 12 km).
The solar system revolves around the galactic center once in about 240 million years. The Milky
Way is part of the so-called Local Group of galaxies, which in turn is part of the Virgo
supercluster of galaxies. Based on the assumption that they are remnants of the materials from
which they were formed, radioactive dating of meteorites, suggests that the Earth and solar
system are 4.6 billion years old on the assumption that they are remnants of the materials from
which they were formed. Much of the mass of the Solar System is concentrated at the center
(Sun) while angular momentum is held by the outer planets. Orbits of the planets elliptical and
are on the same plane. All planets revolve around the sun. The periods of revolution of the
planets increase with increasing distance from the Sun; the innermost planet moves fastest, the
outermost, the slowest. All planets are located at regular intervals from the Sun. Most planets
rotate prograde. Inner terrestrial planets are made of materials with high melting points such as
silicates, iron , and nickel. They rotate slower, have thin or no atmosphere, higher densities, and
lower contents of volatiles - hydrogen, helium, and noble gases. The outer four planets - Jupiter,
Saturn, Uranus and Neptune are called "gas giants" because of the dominance of gases and their
larger size. They rotate faster, have thick atmosphere, lower densities, and fluid interiors rich in
hydrogen, helium and ice (water, ammonia, methane).
Figure 1: The Solar System

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 Earth is considered as a home of simple, single-celled organisms up to the most complex
life forms including humans. It is undeniable that the planet we live in is a rare planet as it is
the only planet in our solar system that permits life. The different characteristics of Earth are
responsible for the proliferation of life. Earth is unique. It is termed as “planet of life” where
matter and energy continue to flow. Most of the cell’s processes requires energy from the
Sun which is the main source of energy. Since Earth is a closed system, energy flows to all
of its living components to continue various life processes and functions. The different forms
of energy also allow the recycling of matter needed for life. What are the characteristics of
Earth that make life possible? What makes Earth different from the rest of the planets and
other heavenly bodies in the Solar System?

In this lesson, you are tasked to describe the characteristics of Earth that supports
life.

Activity 1: How is Earth different from its neighboring planets?

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Instruction: Study the images of the 3 planets: Venus, Earth, and Mars, then tell what makes
Earth different from the other planets. Another information is given in a table below showing the
comparison of the three planets based on the given characteristics on the first column. Study the
common characteristics and differences of the 3 planets. Then, answer Practice Questions 1.

Figure 2: Venus, Earth, and Mars. Images from NASA

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/25/Terrestrial_planet_sizes.jpg
Table 1: Comparison of the features of Venus, Earth, and Mars
(National Aeronautics and Space Administration, 2015)

• The rows above are color coded according to their relationship with respect to each other.

• Escape velocity is the minimum speed an object needs to escape a planet's pull of gravity.

• Surface pressure is the atmospheric pressure at a location on the surface of the planet. It is
proportional to the mass of air above the location.

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• ‘Temperature if no greenhouse gases are present’ = indicates the temperature of the planet
without the warming effect of greenhouse gases. Note that the temperature of the Earth would be
around 18 0C   lower without greenhouse warming. The greenhouse effect is not necessarily
undesirable. It is runaway greenhouse effect which we would like to avoid (e.g. Venus).

• Length of day is a function of rotational speed.

• The ability of a planet to retain its internal heat is proportional to its size. Mars may have lost
much of its internal heat very early in its evolution.

• A planet's temperature is a function of its distance from the Sun. However, this factor can be
modified by the intensity of greenhouse warming.

• Water in liquid form is one of the most important prerequisites for life. There is recent evidence
that liquid water, in the form of brine (salty water) flows intermittently on the surface of Mars.

• Thermophiles - bacteria that can tolerate extreme temperatures (41 to 122 0C) commonly
associated with hot springs and deep-sea hydrothermal vents. Life, in general can tolerate a wide
range of temperature conditions. The temperature range that allows water to exist in the liquid
state is the over-riding factor.

• Planets should have sufficient size to hold a significant atmosphere. The composition of the
atmosphere, specifically the amount of green house gases, influences the planet surface
temperature.

• The amount of solar radiation that a planet receives is primarily a function of distance from
the sun. Sunlight is essential for photosynthesis but some organism are able to extract energy
from other sources (chemosynthetic organisms).

• A system that will be able to constantly supply nutrients to organisms is important to sustain
life. On Earth, nutrients are cycled through the hydrologic cycle and plate tectonics
(volcanism)
• Internal heat drives plate tectonics. The ability of a planet to maintain internal heat is related
to size.

Practice Questions 1
Completion Type. Fill out the blanks of the sentences to complete the concepts about
the similarities or differences of Earth with other planets. Copy the complete statement
in your Answer Sheet.

1. What is the twin sister of planet Earth in terms of planet size: mass, density, diameter,
gravity and escape velocity? ______________________.
2. How do you compare the size of Mars to Earth? Complete the statement: Mars is almost
______________ the size of the Earth.

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 3. Which among the three planets: VENUS, EARTH, MARS, contains oxygen in its
atmosphere? It is _________________.
4. How do the 3 planets differ in their mean temperature? Complete the statement:
Planet Venus is ______ than Earth since it has 523 degrees Celcius change in
temperature, Mars is _______ since it has -64 degrees Celcius mean temperature than
Earth.
5. How do the 3 planets differ in their change in temperature due to greenhouse gases?
Complete the statement:
Planet Venus is ______ than Earth since it has 464 0C change in temperature, Mars is
_______ than Earth since it has 10 0C change in temperature than Earth comprises of 33
0C.
6. In terms of their distances from the sun, how do you compare the 3 planets? Complete
the statement:
Planet ______ is nearer from the sun compared to Earth, while Planet ________ is farther
than Earth from the sun.
7. Which planet has global magnetic field? ____________________.
8. What do you think is the consequence if greenhouse gases are not present on Earth? Is
it colder or hotter? ___________________.
9. What greenhouse gas is unique to Earth? __________________________.
10.Based from the given information in the table, what characteristics are unique to planet
Earth compared to other planets in the solar system?
_______________________________________________________________.
11.Do you think one factor is enough in order for a planet to be habitable? Why or why not?

______________________________________________________________________.

Earth, Venus, and Mars may have similarities: (1) They all are terrestrial planets, made of
solid rocks and silicates; (2) They all have an atmosphere; (3) They all almost have the same time
to rotate on their axes; (4) Earth and Mars both have water; (5) They all have carbon dioxide; and
(6 All have landforms. Earth, Venus, and Mars have differences: (1) Venus has no water; (2)
Venus and Mars don’t have oxygen; and (3) Earth has life forms and is unique in our solar
system because it has liquid water on its surface. The moon, the only satellite of Earth also plays
important role for life. The moon’s gravitational pull causes tides. In some instances, the moon
also plays a role in the distribution of life forms, like in birds for migration and navigation. It also
has an effect on the planet’s polar shifts.

What makes Earth a Habitable Planet?

The following are the factors that make our planet capable of sustaining varied life forms which
thrive in the various ecosystems. Try to read and understand the factors that make our planet
habitable.

The Features of a Habitable Planet

1. Temperature – This will influence how quickly atoms and molecules move. Most living
things are limited to a temperature range of -15˚C to 115˚C. Given this temperature range,

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water (H2O) may still exist in liquid form being crucial to life. Among the other planets, only
Earth’s surface has this temperature range. Very low temperatures cause chemicals to react
slowly, which interferes with the reactions necessary for life. It can also cause the freezing of
water, making liquid water unavailable. On the other hand, very high temperature like at
about 125oC, protein and Carbohydrate molecules, and the genetic material (e.g., DNA and
RNA) start to break apart. Also, high temperatures cause the quick evaporation of water.

2. Water (Hydrosphere) – This matter dissolves and transports materials in and out of the
cell (body). Only Earth has the right chemical materials like liquid water that could support
life. Most of Earth’s surface is about 75 percent covered with water. Water is present in the
atmosphere, ground, freshwater lakes, rivers, streams; and even in the polar ice caps. Water
is also found in all living things. Some plants, for example, are as much as 90–95 percent
water by weight. Adult humans are about 60 percent water by weight. Water is important for
the many life functions carried out by cells, tissues, and organs. It helps dissolve certain
nutrients and carry them throughout an organism. Water is also important for disposing of
bodily wastes. Other than being a water reservoir, the forms of water are all sources of fish
and shellfish that humans consume. They also serve as thermostat and heat reservoir,
especially the ocean. They also serve as ways for transportation.

3. Right Atmospheric Conditions - The Earth’s atmosphere is capable of trapping heat

and houses the important atmospheric gases such as carbon dioxide and oxygen which cause
the earth to warm. Oxygen, a gas which is produced mostly by plants needed in respiration
(in animals) and carbon dioxide which is used by plants in manufacturing food. The
atmosphere shields the surface from harmful radiation through the ozone (O 3) layer & from
small- to medium-sized meteorites. Earth has the right size to hold a sufficient-sized
atmosphere since it has enough gravitational force to keep most gases close to its surface.
Earth’s atmosphere is about 100 miles thick.  Small planets and moons have insufficient
gravity to hold an atmosphere. The gas molecules escape to space, leaving the planet or moon
without an insulating blanket or a protective shield. Venus’ atmosphere is 100 times thicker
than Earth’s. It is made almost entirely of greenhouse gases, making the surface too hot for
life. The four giant planets are completely made of gas.

Figure 3. Earth’s ozone layer:

Greenhouse Gases - Without the greenhouse effect, Earth would be frozen,

more than 60º F colder. As mentioned above, the atmosphere is capable of trapping
heat because of greenhouse gases. Examples of greenhouse gases are water vapor,
methane, and carbon dioxide. These gases make up the atmosphere. The atmosphere
consists of 78.1% nitrogen, 20.9% oxygen, 0.9% argon, 350 ppm carbon dioxide, and
other components.

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Figure 4. Greenhouse gases absorbing heat

4. Energy – Living things use light or chemical energy to run essential life processes. With the
availability of sufficient energy, organisms can perform different metabolic reactions through
the cells. The inner planets such as Earth, get too much sunlight for life. The outer planets
get too little. When there is too little sunlight or too few of the chemicals that provide energy
to cells, such as iron or sulphur. Organisms die. Light energy is a problem if it makes a
planet too hot or if there are too many harmful rays, such as ultraviolet. Too many energy-
rich chemicals is not a problem.

5. Right Distance from the Sun – Earth is in the Goldilocks Zone, as some scientists
say. A region with the ‘just the right temperature to sustain life’ – not too cold, not too
hot. Earth’s place in the solar system as the third planet from the Sun, places it in an area of
space, that is “just right” for life as we know it. If the Sun is closer to Earth, liquid water
would not be possible on this planet as all of it would evaporate and life forms will not exist. If
it were a little farther away, it would be colder and liquid water would always be solid ice.

Figure 5: The Habitable Zone in the Solar System (in the green circle)
6. Strong magnetic field (the Magnetosphere) - It shields us from the
electromagnetic radiation coming from the Sun. The magnetic field deflects the
radiation that may destroy the ozone layer. A planet requires a rapidly rotating
magnetic field to protect it from flares from nearby stars and from harmful radiation.
Figure 6. Earth’s magnetic field

7. Nutrients – These are materials that build and maintain an organism’s body. The inner
planets including Earth and moons have the same general chemical components which make
nutrients easily available in the environment. Without chemicals to make proteins &
carbohydrates, organisms cannot grow. The soil serves as a living medium—a medium for

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growth of all kinds of vegetation. It is composed of mixtures of minerals, water, air, organic
matter, and organisms. The soil promotes growth for plants by providing nutrients, water,
and as a substrate for anchorage of roots. In return, vegetation produces trees and forests
cover, ensures the water and nutrient cycle, and prevents soil and wind erosion.

Planets without systems to deliver nutrients to its organisms (e.g., a water cycle or volcanic
activity) cannot support life. Also, when nutrients are spread so thin that they are hard to
obtain, such as on a gas planet, life cannot exist. Too many nutrients are not a problem.
However, too active a circulation system, such as the constant volcanism on Jupiter’s moon,
Io, or the churning atmospheres of the gas planets, interferes with an organism’s ability to get
enough nutrients.
There are various biogeochemical cycles and geologic processes that facilitate the transport
and replenishment of the chemicals and nutrients required by the biotic factors. Examples
include water cycle and volcanism. The presence of volcanoes, cycle of water and
atmosphere, contribute to the flow of nutrients within earth’s systems.
Figure 7: The Water Cycle                            Figure 8: Volcanic Activity

8. It is protected by the plate tectonics from the very hot temperature of the core – The
earth’s core causes the convection currents in the mantle causing the overlaying lithosphere
to move. However, the surface is protected from heat from the core by the lithospheric plates.

Practice Questions 2
A. Directions: The picture in each item depicts a certain characteristic of Earth as a
planet of life. Fill in the missing letters to form the words or phrases implied. Analyze
each picture and the given clue letters to answer this activity. Write your answers in a
separate sheet of paper.

1. L __ __ U __ __ W __ T __ __

2. P__ __ S __ __ __ E of __ X__G __ N

3. D __ S __ __N __ E of E __R T __ from the __ U N

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 4. I __ F __ U __ N __ E of M __ O __ on E _RT __

5. E __ R__ H’S A T __ O __ P H __ R __

B. Direction: Answer what is asked. Answer in complete statements in your Answer

Sheet.
1. What is a Goldilocks Zone?
2. What conditions need to exist in order for life to survive? Describe three
characteristics that make Earth suitable for life?
3. What temperature range is good for life?
4. What sort of atmosphere do living things need to survive?
5. Why do living things need water to survive?
6. What do organisms get from the food they eat? What is its use?
7. How s light necessary for living things?
8. How does the earth’s magnetic field affect life on earth?
9. Does the mass or size of the planet matter for it to be habitable? Why?

Activity 3: Crash Landing

Directions: Imagine yourself in an interstellar voyage. A meteoroid has hit your spaceship! This
happened while you are passing through a stellar system with one (1) star and seven (7) planets,
some of which has moons. You are running out of fuel so you need to crash land on one of the
planets. Listed below are the planets and their characteristics. Which of these planets should be
your choice for crash landing? Explain your answer by stating the qualities you look for in a
habitable planet. Write your answer in a paragraph form in your paper. You can use questions 1
to 3 below as your guide in making your answer in paragraph.

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1) What planet will you choose to crash-land? _____________________________________

2) Why did you choose this planet? (stating the characteristics that make the planet habitable)
______________________________________________________________________________
3) What is/are the similarities and differences of the planet you chose compared to Earth?

____________________________________________________________________.
Rubrics in writing the paragraph/explanation (20 points):
Criteria Score Scoring guide
*Showed the proper
characteristics of a
habitable planet
*clearly describe the
different characteristics of a
habitable planet
*Explained well how a
characteristic is essential to
life
Coherence/ organization of
concepts
Total Score

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 Instructions: Complete the following paragraph below by supplying with the correct
words. Choose your answer from the given words inside the parentheses.

(1)_____ (Earth, Venus) is unique in our solar system because it has (2)_______(polar
ice cap, liquid water, water vapor) on its surface. Water is present in the atmosphere,
ground, freshwater lakes, rivers, streams; and even in the polar ice caps. Water is also found in
all living things. Adult humans, for example, is about (3)________(60 percent, 90–95 percent)
water by weight. Water is important for the many life functions carried out by cells, tissues, and
organs. Scientists sometimes speak of Earth as having “Goldilocks” conditions—in other words,
Earth is (4)______ (either hot or cold, neither too hot nor cold) for life. Earth’s (5)________
(revolution, distance) in the solar system as the third planet from the Sun, places it in this area
of space. This also explains why Earth has enough (6)_________ (nutrients, temperature) ranging
from -15˚C to 115˚C. Earth has (7)_________ (gravitational force, magnetic field) to keep most
gases close to its surface. These gases make up the (8)__________(Goldilocks zone, atmosphere). It
also traps heat and protects the Earth from the damaging rays of the Sun. The (9)_______(sun,
moon), the only satellite of Earth also plays important role for life. Its gravitational pull causes
tides. It also has an effect on the planet’s polar shifts. Another feature of the Earth that makes it
livable is its (10)_________ (gravitational force, magnetic field) that shields us from the
electromagnetic radiation coming from the Sun. It deflects the radiation that may
destroy the ozone layer.

Lesson
Earth’s Subsystems
2

Planet Earth is considered habitable because of the following reasons: (1) it has the right
distance from the sun; (2) it is protected from harmful solar radiation by its magnetic field; (3) it
is kept warm by an insulating atmosphere; and (4) it has the right amount of ingredients for life,
including water and carbon. Earth is different from other planets in a way that it is the only
planet with liquid water on the surface.
Earth is sometimes called the “water planet” or the “blue planet” because seas cover more than
two-thirds of its surface. Earth is the only planet or moon in the solar system with rain that falls

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from clouds, runs over the land, and collects in extensive oceans. It is also the only body we
know that supports life.
This self- learning module will help you understand about the four subsystems of the
earth namely: atmosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere. You will also discover
through this lesson that matter and energy flow in these four subsystems.

“We are all connected. To each other, biologically. To the earth, chemically. To the
rest of the universe atomically.” This quote is said by Neil DeGrasse Tyson, an American
astrophysicist. Do you agree with him? Why do you think he said that we are all connected?
A certain group of interacting, interrelated, or interdependent parts that work together to
form a complex whole is called a system. The scientists around the world try to study our planet
through the smaller systems it has and fit them together to form a whole picture which is known
as the Earth System Science.

Specifically, Earth System is commonly referred as the spheres which are divided into
four: geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere and biosphere. These four spheres regulate the
different functions of Earth which makes it habitable which is similar on how a human body
system works. All human body systems work together to maintain a well-functioning and
healthy body. On Earth, each of the four spheres or systems must keep itself in balance. A
change in one system will affect other systems.

Activity 1: What are the sub-systems of the Earth?

The planet Earth is home to varied life forms which interact continuously with the
non-living components. There are four subsystems that composed the earth. These include
the atmosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere. Each of these systems, allow earth
to keep itself in balance. A change in one system will affect other system.
Earth is one of the inner planets in the solar system. According to radiometric dating
record, it is said to be 4.56 billion years old. It is the only planet in the solar system to
harbor life. Earth is a closed system. This means that if it gets what it wants, it does not
return it back. It gets energy from the Sun but returns only some back to space.
Biogeochemical cycles drive the Earth’s subsystems. It is through these cycles that earth
materials are recycled and replenish. The following are the subsystems.

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 1. Atmosphere – A set of layers of gases that blankets the planet held by the planet’s
gravity. This sphere relates to meteorological features and phenomena such as weather,
clouds, or aerosols (particles in the air). It includes an ever‐changing mixture of gas and
small particles located above and surrounding the Earth’s surface. It is consisted of 78%
nitrogen, 20.95% oxygen, 0.93% argon and 0.04% water vapor including all other
gases. Different layers of the atmosphere include the troposphere, stratosphere,
mesosphere and thermosphere. One of the most important processes by which the heat
on the Earth's surface is redistributed is through atmospheric circulation. There is also a
constant exchange of heat and moisture between the atmosphere and the hydrosphere
through the hydrologic cycle.
o Features: clouds, weather, aurora, air pollution/aerosols, dust, and so on.
o Processes: atmospheric circulation

Figure 1: The Layers of the Atmosphere

Layer Major Features
Troposphere Densest part. Almost all weather
types are in this region.
Stratosphere Location of ozone layer which
absorbs and scatters the solar
ultraviolet radiation.
Mesosphere Region where meteors usually burn
up and become “shooting stars”
Ionosphere It is where radio communications
possible.
Thermosphere It is the area of aurora and
satellites.
Exosphere Upper limit of the atmosphere
separating Earth and space.

2. Hydrosphere - It is the liquid component of the Earth including oceans, glacial waters,
and freshwater bodies that covers 70% of the earth’s surface much of it is in the form of ocean
water, about 98% of the water on Earth is saltwater. Only 3% of Earth's water is fresh: two-
thirds are in the form of ice, and the remaining one-third is present in streams, lakes, and
groundwater.
This sphere is associated with water in solid (ice) and liquid states. It composed of all waters on
the surface (oceans, rivers, and lakes) and also the water underground (in wells and aquifers)
and may also include moisture in air (visible as clouds and fogs). The oceans are important sinks
for CO2 through direct exchange with the atmosphere and indirectly through the weathering of
rocks. Heat is absorbed and redistributed on the surface of the Earth through ocean circulation.
o Features: oceans, icebergs, lakes, rivers, glaciers, snow, and so on.
o Processes: hydrologic cycle (condensation, evaporation..), ocean circulation

3. Geosphere - It is the solid sphere of the earth. It includes rocks, sediments, soils, and
surface landforms. It is predominantly classified as the lithosphere: the upper mantle and crust.
The lithosphere is a part of the geosphere that is composed of the solid, outermost part of
the planet. The lithosphere includes the rocks of the crust and mantle, the metallic liquid outer
core, and the solid metallic inner core. This is where geologic processes such as volcanism
and orogenesis (mountain building) take place.
The Plate Tectonics, as an important process shapes the surface of the Earth. The primary
driving mechanism is the Earth's internal heat, such as that in mantle convection.
o The associated features of the geosphere based on types are:
• Fluvial & Alluvial processes: deltas, river channels, canyons, alluvial fans

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 • Aeolian processes: sand dunes, yardangs, wind streaks
• Tectonic Processes: folds, faults, mountains
• Volcanic Processes: volcanoes, central vents, volcanic deposits
• Impact Processes: impact craters
• Other Processes: mass wasting processes, erosional processes
o Processes: weathering, erosion, mantle convection, volcanic eruption, and so on.
o Earth’s Interior Layers:
Crust – upper portion composed of 2 types: Oceanic crust (underlies the ocean basin)
and Continental crust (underlies the continents) which is most abundant composition
is oxygen and silicon.
Mantle – solid rock layer between crust and crust.
Core – it is an iron-rich sphere divided into 2 parts: outer core (liquid iron-nickel-
sulfur, generates magnetic field) and inner core (solid iron-nickel alloy)

4. Biosphere - This is the living sphere of the earth such as biomes or ecosystems . The
biosphere is the set of all life forms on Earth. It is the totality of all the ecosystems in the
whole planet. This includes life on land, in the oceans and rivers, and even life that we cannot
see with the naked eye—from the soil to the rainforest, from mangroves to coral reefs, and from
the plankton-rich ocean surface to the deep sea. It compels us to interact with other living
organisms with the influence of the abiotic factors in the system. For the majority of life on
Earth, the base of the food chain comprises photosynthetic organisms. During photosynthesis,
CO2 is sequestered from the atmosphere, while oxygen is released as a byproduct. The biosphere
is a CO2 sink, and therefore, an important part of the carbon cycle.
o Features: coastal biomes, forests, desert, grasslands, and other ecosystems.
o Processes: photosynthesis, biogeochemical cycles (carbon cycle, nitrogen cycle..)

Practice Questions 1: Matching A-B-C

Directions: Match Column A (Description) with Column B (Earth’s Sphere)then match Column B with
Column C (Process that happens in a specific Earth sphere) through drawing a line between them.
Column A Column B Column C
1. It is a thin gaseous
layer composed of 78% • • biosphere • • photosynthesis
N, 21% O, 0.9% Ar and
other trace gases
2. It is the set of all life
forms on Earth which • • atmosphere • • atmospheric
covers all ecosystems. circulation

3. It is the solid
portions of Earth • • hydrosphere • • erosion,
including the crust, weathering
mantle and core.
4. It is the combined
mass of water found • • geosphere • • evaporation,
on, under, and above transpiration
the surface.

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Activity 2: How are the subsystems interconnected?
According to John Muir, “When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached
to the rest of the world.” How is the given diagram related to the said quote? How does the four
subsystem of the Earth connect with each other?

Figure 2: Earth Subsystems

Any event on Earth is going to involve more than one sphere. Even in one’s daily routine
like waking up, eating, bathing, walking and many others; it involves the interaction of the
different spheres. Humans use a variety of natural resources to generate power, such as plant
material, oil, natural gas, wind, water and sunlight. You can see right away that we have
involved all of the spheres already, even before we started talking about how we harness these
resources! We use corn for ethanol (biosphere), oil and natural gas for heating homes and
fuelling cars (the geosphere) and the wind (atmosphere) and the water (hydrosphere) for
electricity.
Human can impact all four of Earth’s spheres. These negative impacts, such as burning
fossil fuels, pollute the atmosphere. Piling up our waste in landfills affects the geosphere.
Pumping waste into the oceans harms the hydrosphere. And overfishing and habitat destruction
can reduce the diversity of living things in the biosphere.
However, people everywhere are working to change things. Recycling efforts are increasing
all over the world, and companies are finding new ways to reduce fossil fuels.

Practice Questions 2

Instructions: Analyze the interactions of the spheres after the onslaught of Taal Volcano as
shown in the picture below. Write a short paragraph explaining the interaction of the Earth’s
systems, how matter and energy flow within or across the systems, during or after the eruption
(at least 5 sentences, maximum of 10). Use the guide questions below in writing.

What if a volcanic eruption happens? How will it affect the atmosphere? biosphere?
hydrosphere? Or the geosphere?

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Guide questions:
1. What sphere caused the event?
2. What are the effects of the event on one or more spheres?
3. How does matter and energy flow across the Earth’s subsystems?
4. What is the global implication of the event?

Rubrics in writing the paragraph/explanation (20 points):

Earth is a complex (1)_________ made up of many smaller systems through which

matter and (2)_________ are continuously cycled. Energy and matter flow through Earth’s
spheres: geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and (3)_________. Energy flows through
the atmosphere mostly by convection. The Earth consists of (4)______ subsystems,
across whose boundaries matter and energy flows, the atmosphere (air), biosphere (living
things), hydrosphere (water), and (5)________ (land). The atmosphere provides the
geosphere with heat and energy needed for rock breakdown and erosion. The biosphere
receives gases, heat, and sunlight (energy) from the (6)__________. It receives water from
the (7)__________ and a living medium from the (8)__________ which is the soil.
MADRIDEJOS NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – MADRIDEJOS, CEBU
Name of Learner: ___________________________ Grade Level & Section: _____________________
Name of Adviser: ________________________Name of Subject Teacher: ______________________

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Assessment
MULTIPLE-CHOICE TYPE. Read the questions carefully and select the correct answer
from the choices given after each question. Write the letters and words of corresponding
correct answers on your answer sheet.

1. Earth is found in between planets _____ and ______?

A. Mercury and Venus C. Mercury and Sun
B. Mars and Neptune D. Venus and Mars

2. Which of the following gases is the most abundant in Earth’s atmosphere?

A. Carbon dioxide B. Hydrogen C. Nitrogen D. Oxygen
3. What are the materials that build and maintain an organism’s body?
A. energy B. nutrients C. Oxygen D. water
4. Which of the following describes a habitable Earth?
A. has a weak magnetic field
B. right distance from the Sun
C. dominant presence of solid ice
D. presence of oxygen in the hydrosphere

5. Which of the following describes a Goldilocks Zone?

A. a zone composed mainly of frozen water
B. a region where life is impossible to exists
C. a zone composed only of rocks and other celestial debris
D. an area where the temperature is not too hot and not too cold

6. Which temperature range is good for life to exist?

A. -15˚C to 125˚C C. 15˚C to 115˚C
B. -10˚C to 115˚C D. -14˚C to 125˚C
7. Why is the ozone layer important in sustaining life on earth?
A. It is where Earth satellites orbit and auroras show.
B. It influences hydro-meteorological phenomenon such as storms.
C. It is where celestial objects get burned and disintegrated upon entering Earth.
D. It shields the Earth from the Sun's ultraviolet radiation and keeps the planet warm.

8. How do oxygen and carbon dioxide make the earth habitable?

A. Carbon dioxide and oxygen help prevent the entry of UV radiation.
B. Carbon dioxide and oxygen lead to maintenance of water on Earth.
C. Carbon dioxide and oxygen is used by photosynthetic organisms and by our cells to function.
D. Carbon dioxide is used by photosynthetic organisms in photosynthesis, and the oxygen is used
by humans and animals for respiration.

9. Which of the following is an important characteristic of earth in sustaining life?

A. Earths’ position beyond the Goldilocks Zone
B. The atmosphere that blocks the rays of the sun from reaching Earth
C. The abundant nitrogen in the atmosphere made life possible on Earth
D. The presence of liquid water which plays a vital role for cell’s metabolism
10. Which factors are needed for organisms to live on Earth?

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A. temperature and nutrient C. only A
B. atmosphere and energy D. both A and B

11. Which of the following is the reasons why the lithospheric plates are important?
A. It sustains various life forms.
B. It helps in regulating the atmosphere.
C. It plays an important role in ecosystems.
D. It protects the Earth’s surface from heat of the core.
12. Which distinct characteristic made Earth different from any other planet?
A. It is the only rocky planet.
B. It is the only planet that changes its structure.
C. It is the only planet that turns around in space.
D. It is the only planet that has a large amount of liquid water.

13. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of Earth?

A. It is the third planet from the Sun.
B. It is the only known planet that can support life.
C. It has blue waters, rocky and green land masses.
D. It has abundant carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
14. Which of the following is NOT true about the hydrosphere?
A. It is a way for transportation.
B. It serves as thermostat and heat reservoir, especially the ocean.
C. Half of the Earth's surface is composed of the oceans and the seas.
D. The hydrosphere contains all the water on our planet including ice and vapor.

15. Which of the following is NOT true about the earth's atmosphere?
A. The earth’s atmosphere protects us from the sun’s radiation.
B. It contains the ozone layer that absorbs the ultraviolet wavelengths.
C. The atmosphere only consists of nitrogen, carbon dioxide, oxygen, and argon.
D. It has the greenhouse gases like water vapor, methane, and carbon dioxide .

16. Which of the following is true about the role of soil (geosphere) in growth and life
(biosphere) on Earth?
A. They negatively affect growth and life on Earth.
B. The soil provides nutrients, water, and substrate for vegetation.
C. There is no relationship between the soil and vegetation.
D. The soil allows growth of different types of plants but not microorganisms.

17. Which of the following is NOT true about the earth's atmosphere?
A. The earth’s atmosphere protects us from the sun’s radiation.
B. It contains the ozone layer that absorbs the ultraviolet wavelengths.
C. The atmosphere only consists of nitrogen, carbon dioxide, oxygen, and argon.
D. It has the greenhouse gases like water vapor, methane, and carbon dioxide .

18. Earth includes beach grasses, forms of life in the sea, on land, and even in the air. Which
Earth’s sphere is being describe in the statement?
A. atmosphere C. geosphere
B. biosphere D. hydrosphere

19. From the given choices, which is an example of a connection between the biosphere and the
atmosphere?
A. Animals eat plants. C. Animals lie in caves.

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 B. Animals drink water. D. Plants produce oxygen.

20. When nitrogen is returned to the soil, during the decomposition of dead plants, is an
interaction that occurs in what system?
A. biosphere and atmosphere C. biosphere and geosphere
B. hydrosphere and geosphere D. atmosphere and geosphere

Answer Key *Showed the

proper
characteristics of
a habitable planet
*clearly describe
the different
characteristics of
Practice Question 1 a habitable planet
Completion Type: *Explained well
how a
characteristic is
1. Venus essential to life
2. One-half Coherence/
3. Earth organization of
4. Hotter, colder concepts
5. Hotter, colder Total Score
6. Venus, Mars
7. Earth What I have Learned
8. Colder
9. Water vapour/water 1. Earth
2. Liquid water
10. GHG like water vapour, oxygen in atmosphere;
3. 60%
magnetic field
4. Neither too hot nor cold
11. One factor is not enough for a planet to be habitable 5. distance
since the different factors like water and oxygen in 6. temperature
atmosphere are equally important/interconnected 7. gravitational force
for existence of life. 8. atmoshpere
9. moon
Practice Questions 2 10.magnetic field/magnetosphere
A.Liquid water Lesson 2:
1. Presence of oxygen Practice Question 1
2. Distance of Earth from the sun Matching type:
3. Influence of Moon on Earth 1. Atmosphere, atmospheric circulation
4. Earth’s atmosphere 2. Biosphere, photosynthesis
B.1. Goldilocks zone is an area in space that is just right for 3. Geosphere, erosion, weathering
life to exist. 4. Hydrosphere, evaporation, transpiration
2. presence of liquid water; oxygen; Goldilocks zone; etc.
3. -15 0C – 115 0C What’s More
4. at least about 100 miles thick with the presence of
Activity 2:
gases needed for life
Practice Questions 2
5. Yes, to sustain life by providing the necessary medium
for all life processes and functions. BASED ON GIVEN Rubrics:
6. they get energy for essential life processes to take
place
7. Yes, light is necessary for life since it is the source of
energy for all organisms.
8. Earth’s magnetic field shields the Earth from
electromagnetic radiation from the sun.
9. Yes, the mass and size of the planet matters for it to be
habitable since it is related to the ability of the planet to
maintain internal heat and to have enough gravity to hold a
sufficient-sized atmosphere.

What’ More
Activity 3: Crash Landing
Criteria Score Scoring guide

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