Earth Science Chapter 1 Section 1.1

biosphere

The part of the earth where life exists

geology

The scientific study of the origin, history, and structure of the earth.

earth science

The study of earth and space; includes geology, meteorology, astronomy, and oceanography

ecosystem

a community of organisms and their environment

biodegradable

capable of being readily decomposed into harmless substances by microorganisms

oikos

the Greek word for house

ecology

the branch of biology concerned with the relations between organisms and their environment

pollution

the contamination of the environment with waste or impurities

atmosphere

the layer of gases that surrounds Earth

hydrosphere

the portion of earth that is water

geosphere

the solid earth

meteorology

the study of the earth's atmosphere

oceanography

the study of the earth's oceans

astronomy

the study of the universe