Acting on the Geosphere

As mentioned on the previous page, there are many interactions between spheres. Let's examine how each sphere interacts with the geosphere.

Atmosphere and Geosphere

The location of the geosphere affects how the atmosphere affects it. For example, there is less oxygen the higher you get in the atmosphere. As a result, rocks at high elevations will oxidize at a slower rate than rocks at sea level. Also, temperatures in the atmosphere can contribute to erosion: freeze/thaw cycles can break rocks apart. Volcanic eruptions contribute particulates and gases to the atmosphere, altering it's composition and causing subsequent changes to Earth's biosphere and hydrosphere. The planet Earth itself is part of the geosphere, and its rotation affects the atmosphere by causing the Coriolis effect, which influences global wind and ocean currents.

Biosphere and Geosphere

The kind of life that interacts with the geosphere has a huge impact on it. Plant's roots contribute to erosion, and humans add nutrients to the soil to encourage plant growth. Also, if organisms are decomposed under heat and pressure, they turn into rocks (coal). The geosphere can also affect the biosphere. Plants and some animals have evolved to take advantage of minerals found in soil and rocks in their ecosystem. Different rocks contain different minerals, and when they are eroded, provide nutrients to the soil. Therefore, the types of rocks in a location will affect the type of soil which, in turn, affects the types of plants that can grow there. For example, volcanic soils are very fertile and support plant growth. The type of vegetation in an area will determine the types of animals that live there as well.

Hydrosphere and Geosphere

The way in which the hydrosphere interacts with the geosphere can be summarized in two words: weathering and erosion. Water will break down rocks, and the minerals carried away can be used to feed plants or form new rocks. Soil absorbs water, or if there's enough water, the soil is disintegrated.


Each of these interactions shows that the geosphere is shaped by the other spheres and, in turn, affects the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. Review the 'Volcanic Eruptions and Hazards' page in Chapter 16.1 for more examples of how volcanoes affect Earth's atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. This page provides great information that may help you with your Tectonic Inquiry Project! Note that the interactions are rarely one-way. For example, when rocks are weathered by water, the composition and pH of the water changes (i.e. it has more minerals). It's these complex interactions that make Earth Systems Science its own scientific field.