What Is Accurate About The Planet’s Climate System
The Earth’s climate system is a complex system made up of several interconnected parts. It is a major factor in controlling the Earth’s climate. This system is made up of the atmosphere, oceans, land, ice sheets, and biosphere, which interact with each other to create the climate we experience. As climate change continues to be a major issue in the world today, understanding the workings of the climate system is essential to understanding how the climate is changing and what can be done to stop it.
The Atmosphere
The atmosphere is the layer of gases that surrounds the planet and is composed of nitrogen, oxygen, water vapor, and trace amounts of other gases. This layer of gases is responsible for trapping the sun’s energy and redistributing it across the planet. Without the atmosphere, the Earth would be too cold for life to exist. The atmosphere also plays an important role in regulating weather patterns, such as precipitation, temperature, and wind.
Oceans
The oceans are large bodies of water that cover 70% of the Earth’s surface. They are important for regulating the planet’s climate because they store and transport energy, as well as absorb and release heat. The ocean also plays a role in the water cycle by evaporating water from the surface and redistributing it as precipitation.
Land
The land is the solid surface of the Earth that covers the remaining 30% of the planet’s surface. It is important for climate regulation because it stores and releases heat and moisture, and it is where plants grow, which affects the atmosphere. Changes in land use, such as deforestation, can have a large impact on the climate.
Ice Sheets
Ice sheets are large masses of ice that cover portions of the Earth’s surface, such as the Arctic and Antarctica. They are important for climate regulation because they reflect sunlight and act as a barrier between the atmosphere and the ocean, regulating the exchange of heat and moisture.
Biosphere
The biosphere is the sum of all living organisms on the planet, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. These organisms interact with each other and the environment to create a complex system that is essential for regulating the climate. Plants, for example, absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which is necessary for life on Earth.
Conclusion
The planet’s climate system is a complex system that is composed of several interconnected parts. The atmosphere, oceans, land, ice sheets, and biosphere all interact with each other to create the climate we experience. Understanding the workings of the climate system is essential for understanding how the climate is changing and what can be done to stop it.
Kyle Whyte is a notable scholar and professor at the University of Michigan, holding positions such as the George Willis Pack Professor in the School for Environment and Sustainability and Professor of Philosophy. Specializing in environmental justice, his work critically examines climate policy and Indigenous peoples’ ethics, emphasizing the nexus between cooperative scientific endeavors and Indigenous justice. As an enrolled Citizen Potawatomi Nation member, he brings a vital perspective to his roles as a U.S. Science Envoy and member of the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council. His influential research is supported by various prestigious organizations including the National Science Foundation, and disseminated through publications in high-impact journals. Kyle actively contributes to global Indigenous research methodologies and education, with affiliations to numerous institutes and societies dedicated to traditional knowledge and sustainability. Recognized for his academic and community engagement, Kyle has earned multiple awards and served in various visiting professorships. His efforts extend to leadership positions on boards and committees focused on environmental justice nationwide.