Читать книгу Exploring the Solar System - Peter Bond - Страница 99

 Summarize at least 6 major differences between Earth and the other terrestrial planets of the Solar System.

 Describe the processes that take place in Earth's water cycle.

 Outline the main characteristics of plate tectonics.

 What differences, if any, does the biosphere make to Earth's physical characteristics?

 Earth is sometimes described as a “Goldilocks” world, where conditions have been just right for life to evolve. With reference to examples, explain whether this is a reasonable description.

 Describe the main factors that influence: (a) Earth's surface temperature, (b) Earth's zonal winds, (c) Earth's atmospheric precipitation.

 What are the main features of Earth's magnetosphere? (b) Describe its interaction with the solar wind.

 How is human activity changing the physical characteristics of the planet?

 Describe some of the ways in which satellite technology being used to enhance our knowledge of planet Earth.