Hydrosphere

Definition

The hydrosphere encompasses all water found on, under, and over the surface of the Earth. It includes oceans, rivers, lakes, groundwater, and moisture in the atmosphere.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The hydrosphere interacts with the lithosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere through various biogeochemical cycles.
2. Oceans cover about 71% of Earth's surface and contain about 97% of all Earth's water.
3. Only about 2.5% of Earth's water is freshwater, with most being locked in glaciers and ice caps.
4. Water in the hydrosphere is continuously cycled through processes like evaporation, condensation, precipitation, infiltration, and runoff.
5. Human activities such as pollution and resource extraction can significantly impact the hydrosphere's health and balance.

Review Questions

• What percentage of Earth's surface is covered by oceans within the hydrosphere?
• Describe how water moves through different states in the hydrosphere.
• How do human activities affect the hydrosphere?

Related terms

Lithosphere:

The solid outer layer of Earth that includes the crust and upper mantle.

Atmosphere: The layer of gases surrounding Earth which is crucial for weather patterns and climate.

Biosphere:

The global ecological system integrating all living beings and their relationships with other spheres.