educazione civica in INGLESE power point, Slide di Inglese

Scarica educazione civica in INGLESE power point e più Slide in PDF di Inglese solo su Docsity! ENVIRONMENTAL INTERCONNECTIONS Ecosystems An ecosystem is a complex system made up of living organisms and their physical environment. These ecosystems can be found in various forms, such as forests, grasslands, deserts, and oceans. Each ecosystem is unique and plays a vital role in the overall balance of our planet. Ecosystems are composed of different species that interact with each other and the environment. These interactions can be categorized into two main types: biotic interactions and abiotic interactions. Thermosphere: Above the mesosphere, between about 85-600 km, is the thermosphere. This layer experiences extreme temperatures, increasing as altitude rises due to the absorption of high-energy solar radiation. The International Space Station orbits within this layer, and it is also where the northern and southern lights (auroras) occur. Exosphere: The outermost layer is called the exosphere, extending from around 600 km until it transitions into space. It is a region where the atmosphere becomes incredibly thin, with very few particles present. Satellites and other spacecraft orbit Earth within the exosphere. The atmosphere The atmosphere One of the main components of the atmosphere is nitrogen, which makes up about 78% of the air we breathe. Oxygen is the second most abundant gas, accounting for approximately 21%. These two gases are essential for supporting life, as they are involved in the process of respiration. Apart from nitrogen and oxygen, the atmosphere also contains trace amounts of other gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and ozone. These gases play important roles in regulating the Earth's temperature and climate. For instance, carbon dioxide plays a crucial role in the greenhouse effect, which helps to trap heat and keep the Earth warm. The atmosphere The atmosphere is also responsible for protecting us from the harmful effects of the sun's radiation. The ozone layer, located in the upper atmosphere, absorbs a significant amount of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This protects us from high levels of UV radiation, which can cause skin cancer and other health problems. Additionally, the atmosphere serves as a blanket, helping to regulate the Earth's temperature. It does this by trapping heat close to the Earth's surface, preventing it from escaping into space. This phenomenon, known as the greenhouse effect, is essential for maintaining a stable climate and preventing extreme temperature fluctuations. Moreover, the atmosphere is not only important for sustaining life but also for supporting weather patterns. It is involved in the formation of clouds, precipitation, and the distribution of heat across the Earth's surface. These weather patterns play a crucial role in determining our climate and influencing ecosystems, agriculture, and the water cycle. The geosphere The geosphere refers to the solid, rigid outer shell of the Earth. It is composed of various layers, including the crust, mantle, and core. 1. The crust is the outermost layer of the geosphere and consists of both continental and oceanic crust. It is the thinnest layer, ranging from about 5-70 km in depth. Continental crust is thicker and less dense than oceanic crust, making it float higher above the mantle. 2. The mantle is the layer beneath the crust and extends about 2,900 km in depth. It is largely composed of solid rock but also includes a partially molten region called the asthenosphere. The upper part of the mantle is rigid, while the lower part is more flexible and capable of slow-flowing movement. 3. The core lies beneath the mantle and consists of two main parts – the outer core and the inner core. The outer core is a liquid layer composed primarily of molten iron and nickel, while the inner core is a solid sphere composed mainly of iron. The geosphere The geosphere plays a crucial role in various geological processes: 1. Plate Tectonics: Plate tectonics involve the movement and interaction of these plates, leading to geological features like mountains, volcanoes, and earthquakes. 2. Rock Formation: The geosphere is responsible for the formation and alteration of rock. 3. Earth's Magnetic Field: The core's motion generates Earth's magnetic field, which is important for protecting the planet from harmful solar radiation and aiding in navigation. 4. Natural Resources: The geosphere contains valuable resources such as minerals, fossil fuels, and groundwater, crucial for various human activities. The biosphere The biosphere includes all living organisms, their interactions with each other and with their environment, and the physical, chemical, and geological factors that influence their existence. It encompasses a wide range of environments, from the depths of the oceans to the highest mountains, and from dense forests to vast deserts. It includes all types of organisms, from microscopic bacteria to towering trees and from simple organisms to complex animals. The biosphere is characterized by various cycles and processes that ensure the sustainability of life. For example, the carbon cycle involves the exchange of carbon dioxide between organisms and the atmosphere, while the water cycle ensures the constant circulation of water on Earth. These cycles and processes are essential for the survival and functioning of ecosystems. Human consumption patterns and waste generation also contribute significantly to environmental degradation. The excessive use of natural resources, including fossil fuels, minerals, and water, leads to resource depletion. Additionally, the improper management of waste, particularly plastic waste, has resulted in massive landfills and the contamination of soils, water bodies, and marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the extraction of fossil fuels, minerals, and metals has not only harmed ecosystems but also disrupted indigenous communities and caused conflicts over resources. Unfortunately, human activities have had a significant impact on ecosystems. Deforestation, pollution, and climate change have all contributed to the loss of biodiversity and disruption of ecosystems. These activities have led to the extinction of numerous species and the degradation of habitats. They had an important impact on the atmosphere; for example, the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation have led to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions. Human Impact Climate change and water The impacts of climate change are not only felt on land. Climate change affects the water cycle, leading to changes in precipitation patterns, evaporation rates, and water availability. Here are some key points regarding the relationship between climate change and water: 1. Changing precipitation patterns: Climate change can alter rainfall patterns, leading to more intense and erratic rainfall events. Some regions may experience increased rainfall, leading to more frequent flooding and a higher risk of landslides. In contrast, other areas may face more prolonged periods of drought, creating water scarcity issues. 2. Melting glaciers and polar ice: Rising global temperatures cause glaciers and polar ice caps to melt, contributing to sea-level rise. As sea levels rise, low-lying coastal areas become more susceptible to flooding and saltwater intrusion. This can contaminate freshwater sources, making them unusable. Climate change and water 3. Water availability and quality: Climate change can affect the quantity and quality of available water resources, impacting various sectors, including agriculture, industry, and households. Higher temperatures and increased evaporation rates can lead to reduced soil moisture and groundwater levels, reducing water availability for irrigation and drinking purposes. 4. Increased water stress: As climate change alters precipitation patterns, some regions may experience increased water stress and water scarcity. This can lead to conflicts over water resources, especially in areas where water is already limited. We should protect our planet! 3. Protecting and restoring our forests, wetlands, and other natural habitats helps combat biodiversity loss and climate change. Strengthening conservation efforts, reforestation, and sustainable land management practices are integral to preserving our ecosystems. 4. Encourage responsible consumption by supporting eco- friendly products, minimizing waste generation, recycling, and adopting a circular economy approach where resources are reused and recycled instead of being discarded. 5. Implement stricter regulations on air and water pollution, promote cleaner technologies, and support waste management practices that minimize pollution and promote recycling. We should protect our planet! Remember, everyone has a role to play in protecting our planet, so it is crucial to encourage individual actions and collective efforts towards a sustainable and resilient future.