Across
- 2. The dynamic, interconnected set of physical, chemical, biological, and human components that interact to shape the Earth's environment and determine its state over time.
- 4. A region of space surrounding a magnet or a moving electric charge that exerts a magnetic force on other magnets or moving charges. The Earth has a magnetic field generated by the motion of molten iron in its core, which helps to protect the planet from harmful solar radiation.
- 9. A layer located in the Earth's mantle beneath the lithosphere. This layer has the ability to flow and deform in a manner similar to plastic when subjected to stress, which means that it can change shape without breaking. It is situated at a depth of approximately 100-200 kilometres beneath the Earth's surface.
- 11. The central part of the Earth, divided into an outer core and an inner core. The outer core is liquid and surrounds the solid inner core, and both are composed primarily of iron and nickel. The core generates the Earth's magnetic field.
- 13. The scientific study of the Earth's shape, gravity field, and rotation, as well as its orientation and position in space. Geodesy uses techniques such as satellite-based positioning and precise measurements of distances and angles.
- 15. Tectonic System The theory that the Earth's outermost layer (the lithosphere) is broken into several plates that move around on the underlying asthenosphere. The plate tectonic system is responsible for many geological phenomena, including earthquakes, volcanoes, and mountain ranges.
- 16. The preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms, typically found in rocks or sediments. Fossils provide important information about the history of life on Earth.
- 20. The transfer of heat by the movement of a fluid, such as a gas or liquid, due to differences in density caused by temperature variations. Convection is an important mechanism for the transfer of heat within the Earth's mantle and core.
- 21. Layer between Earth's mantle and inner core made of liquid iron and nickel, approximately 2,300 kilometres thick with an average temperature of 4,000 degrees Celsius. Movement of molten metals generates the Earth's magnetic field, which protects the planet from harmful radiation and is essential for life.
- 23. A fundamental concept in geology that states that the same physical, chemical, and biological processes that operate in the present also operated in the past. This principle allows geologists to interpret the past by studying present-day processes and their effects on the Earth's surface.
Down
- 1. A complex, interconnected system of physical, chemical, biological, and human components that interact to shape the Earth's environment and determine its state over time.
- 3. A systematic approach to understanding the natural world through observation, hypothesis testing, and experimentation. The scientific method is used to develop and refine scientific theories, which are explanations of natural phenomena supported by evidence.
- 5. The solid, central part of the Earth's core, consisting primarily of iron and nickel. It is surrounded by the liquid outer core and generates the Earth's magnetic field.
- 6. The thin outermost layer of the Earth, ranging from 5-70 km in thickness, that comprises the continents and ocean basins. It is composed of relatively low-density rocks such as granite and basalt.
- 7. The layer of the Earth between the crust and the core. The mantle is composed of solid rock, but it can flow slowly over long periods of time. It is divided into the upper and lower mantle based on differences in physical properties.
- 8. The scientific study of the Earth's physical structure, composition, history, and processes, including the study of rocks, minerals, fossils, and other geological materials.
- 10. The complex interplay of physical, chemical, biological, and human factors that determine the Earth's climate, including the atmosphere, oceans, land surfaces, ice sheets, and living organisms.
- 12. A vibration that travels through the Earth in response to an earthquake or other seismic event. Seismic waves provide valuable information about the interior structure of the Earth, including the location and nature of seismic discontinuities.
- 14. The process by which the Earth's magnetic field is generated by the motion of molten iron in the outer core. The geodynamo is driven by convection and plays a crucial role in protecting the Earth from harmful solar radiation.
- 17. The collection of rocks, minerals, fossils, and other materials that provide a record of the Earth's history, including its geological, biological, and environmental evolution over billions of years.
- 18. The rigid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle. It is divided into a series of large plates that move and interact with each other along boundaries.
- 19. The physical features of the Earth's surface, including mountains, valleys, and plains. Topography is influenced by a variety of factors, including tectonic activity, erosion, and climate.
- 22. The long-term average of weather patterns in a particular region, including measures such as temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind, and atmospheric pressure.