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Year 10 - Geography

Understanding the regulatory functions of the biosphere

Global biomes

Unit Summary

This unit teaches pupils about ecosystems and biomes at different scales. Pupils learn about the factors influencing biome distribution and the physical systems and processes regulating them. Pupils will also learn about the impact of population growth and resource extraction on biomes.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain how the biosphere regulates the atmosphere and provides important environmental services.

Key Notes

  • The biosphere regulates the composition of the atmosphere.
  • The biosphere maintains soil health and regulates water within the hydrological cycle.
  • The biosphere provides globally important services.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • atmosphere: the air above our heads, made up of gases, solids and liquids
  • ecosystem services: benefits gained from the day-to-day functioning of the world's ecosystems that support human life
  • regulate: to control, for example, the flow of water in a pipe or the temperature in a room
  • soil health: the structure, composition and nutrient content of a soil; a measure of soil fertility
  • hydrological cycle: the continuous recycling of water in its different states, for example via rainfall and evaporation

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • The biosphere is affected by the atmosphere but has little impact on it.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this geography topic using two clear key points.

The biosphere regulates the composition of the atmosphere. The biosphere maintains soil health and regulates water within the hydrological cycle.

2. Define this geography term and use it in an example. 'atmosphere'

the air above our heads, made up of gases, solids and liquids.

3. Correct this common geography misunderstanding.

Mistake: The biosphere is affected by the atmosphere but has little impact on it. Correction: The biosphere has significant impacts on the composition of the atmosphere, affecting the concentration of gases and moisture content.

More Lessons In This Unit

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