The physical environment of our earth can be divided into four realms;

01. The solid part is known as the Lithosphere.

02. The liquid part is known as the Hydrosphere.

03. The part where living organisms are found is known as the Biosphere.

04. The air and gaseous part of the earth is known as the Atmosphere.

Lets have a closer look at these realsm:

Lithosphere

The Lithosphere encompasses the Earth’s solid outer layer, which includes the crust and upper mantle. The crust is further divided into Continental and Oceanic Crust. Beneath the crust, there is upper part of the mantle, which is quite solid and hard.

Lithospher=Upper Mantle+Earth’s Crust

The lithosphere provides the foundation for all other spheres, and most of the earth’s landforms are found on the lithosphere. Beneath the lithosphere there is a molten part of the mantle which is known as asthenosphere, which covers the Earth’s core.

Importance of Lithosphere

The lithosphere is an important part of the Earth’s system, which provides the basis/foundation for life, resources, and climate. Landforms develop on the lithosphere, which provides valuable resources to the human being. It also acts as an interaction between other realms of Earth. 

1. Foundation for Life and Habitats:
    • The lithosphere provides the landforms (mountains, valleys, plains, etc.) that serve as habitats for various species. 
    • It allows for the development of soils, which are essential for agriculture and food production. 
  • It provides a stable platform for human settlements and infrastructure. 
2. Source of Natural Resources:
  • The lithosphere is a rich source of minerals, fossil fuels, and metals, which are crucial for industrial activities and energy production.
  • Tectonic plate movement can concentrate mineral deposits in specific areas, leading to the formation of resource-rich regions. 
3. Interaction with Other Earth Spheres:
  • The lithosphere interacts with the hydrosphere (water), atmosphere (air), and biosphere (living organisms).
  • Weathering and erosion, driven by the hydrosphere and atmosphere, break down rocks and minerals in the lithosphere, making them accessible to the biosphere.
  • The lithosphere also influences weather patterns and water flow due to its landforms. 
4. Influence on Climate and Geological Processes:
  • The lithosphere’s landforms, such as mountains and valleys, can affect regional weather patterns and climate. 
  • Volcanic eruptions and other geological processes originating in the lithosphere can impact the climate on a global scale. 
  • The movement of tectonic plates is a major driver of earthquakes and volcanic activity, which can have significant impacts on the planet. 
5. Provides a stable surface for interaction:
  • The lithosphere provides a stable surface for the other spheres to interact with. 
  • This interaction is crucial for the health and functioning of the entire Earth system.

Hydrosphere

All waters present on the Earth surface, and within the lithosphere, including oceans, seas, lakes, rivers, groundwater, and ice are included in this realm. Water is essential for all known forms of life and plays a crucial role in regulating climate and weather patterns. 

Atmosphere

coming soon……

Biosphere

coming soon…….