Earth system

The Earth system is a complex interplay of its atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere. The atmosphere is the envelope of gases surrounding the planet, while the hydrosphere encompasses all water in liquid and frozen states, including groundwater and vapor. The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of Earth, composed of the crust and upper mantle. The biosphere is the life-supporting stratum where living organisms interact with nonliving factors.12

This system is powered by solar energy, with heat distributed across the planet through various processes like evaporation, convection, and ocean circulation. Natural cycles, such as the carbon and water cycles, are crucial for maintaining balance within the Earth system. While often modeled as a sphere, Earth's actual shape is an oblate spheroid, further complicated by landforms like mountains and valleys.13245