Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
geosphere
noun
/ˈdʒiːəsfɪər/
Definition
The geosphere refers to the solid parts of the Earth, encompassing the rocks, minerals, and landforms, as well as the processes that shape them.
Examples
- The geosphere plays a crucial role in the carbon cycle, which affects the planet’s climate.
- Scientists study the geosphere to understand geological events like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
- The interaction between the geosphere and the biosphere is essential for sustaining life on Earth.
Meaning
In a broader sense, the geosphere includes the Earth’s crust and the upper mantle, excluding the atmosphere and hydrosphere, focusing on the physical composition of the Earth.
Synonyms
- solid Earth
- geological sphere
- lithosphere