Earth: An Introduction to Physical Geology (12th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0134074254
ISBN 13: 978-0-13407-425-2

Chapter 1 - Section 1.1 - Geology: The Science of Earth - Concept Checks - Page 7: 2

Answer

The changes that are caused by human and other organisms are, • Habitat Alteration and Land Use • Climate Change • Soil and Erosion deterioration • Pollution The factors that apparently are not changed by the humans and other organism are, • Movements of Tectonic Plate • Magnetic field of Earth • Geological erosion and weathering • Parameters of Earth's Orbital

Work Step by Step

Organisms, including humans, have the capability to significantly influence the Earth through various courses. The ways in which organisms, including humans, bring about changes on Earth are discussed below: Habitat Alteration and Land Use: Humans alter the Earth's surface through the processes of deforestation, altering land for agriculture, building cities, and shifting natural scenery. These undertakings lead to habitat devastation, shattering, and loss of biodiversity. Climate Change: The activity of burning fossil fuels and deforestation by humans is the main reason for global warming and climate change through the release of greenhouse gases. Alterations in temperature and precipitation patterns will have important effects on ecosystems and the Earth's development. Soil erosion and deterioration: The different actions of humans, like agricultural activities, deforestation, and overgrazing, can speed up the process of erosion and lead to soil degradation. When shrubbery cover is taken out, soil becomes more vulnerable to erosion by wind and water, causing the loss of fertile topsoil and increased sedimentation in the water forms. Pollution: Humans are responsible for producing various pollutants in the environment, including plastics, heavy metals, and chemicals. These pollutants pollute water bodies, soil, and the atmosphere, resulting in unfavourable effects on ecosystems and human health. Introducing Non-Native Species: Non-native species have been introduced by humans to new environments, which upset native ecosystems and threaten biodiversity. Hostile species will harm native species, change nutrient cycles, and influence the whole operative system of ecosystems. In spite of these major impacts, there are still Earth processes that are mostly natural to organisms, including humans. Following are a few examples: Movements of the Tectonic Plate: The tectonic plate's movement, which is responsible for volcanic activity, the creation of mountain ranges, and earthquakes, is a natural Earth process that is not affected by organisms. Magnetic field of Earth: Magnetic field of the earth was created because of the movement of molten iron in its outer core. Organisms, including humans, can navigate using the Earth's magnetic field, but they cannot directly affect its generation or activities. Geological erosion and weathering: Natural forces are active in the natural weathering processes, which include the chemical and physical breakdown of rocks and erosion by water, ice, and wind. These activities are not considerably affected by organisms. Parameters of Earth's Orbit: The determination of the seasons and long-term climate deviations is because of the Earth's orbit around the sun, which is mainly administered by gravitational forces and celestial dynamics and remains unaffected by organisms. It is worth thinking that humans and other organisms are not directly affecting these natural Earth processes, but the whole Earth system is interconnected, and it is highly possible that indirectly, the activities of humans and other organisms badly influence these natural processes, and as a result, the world is currently facing the worst climate change.
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