1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:19,080 Earth Science Week encourages everyone from around the world to learn more about how our 2 00:00:19,080 --> 00:00:22,960 planet works and how its systems interact. 3 00:00:22,960 --> 00:00:28,840 In honor of Earth Science Week, this episode of NASA Connect will introduce you to Earth 4 00:00:28,840 --> 00:00:30,800 System Science. 5 00:00:30,800 --> 00:00:36,400 You will learn what a system is and how to apply that concept to learn more about how 6 00:00:36,400 --> 00:00:38,320 the Earth works. 7 00:00:38,320 --> 00:00:45,080 You'll observe researchers and scientists using math, science, and technology to comprehend 8 00:00:45,080 --> 00:00:47,220 the workings of our planet. 9 00:00:47,220 --> 00:00:52,600 In your classroom, you'll do a cool activity to help you understand systems. 10 00:00:53,120 --> 00:00:58,080 Using the instructional technology activities, you will explore earthquakes, Antarctica, 11 00:00:58,080 --> 00:00:59,080 and more. 12 00:00:59,080 --> 00:01:06,080 So stay tuned as NASA Connect takes you on a tour of our virtual Earth. 13 00:01:23,080 --> 00:01:40,080 Hi, I'm Jennifer Pulley, and welcome to NASA Connect, the show that connects you to math, 14 00:01:40,080 --> 00:01:42,600 science, technology, and NASA. 15 00:01:42,600 --> 00:01:47,360 We're here in sunny Virginia Beach, which is located in Virginia's Tidewater region. 16 00:01:47,360 --> 00:01:52,040 Now, in case you're not familiar with where Virginia Beach or Virginia's Tidewater region 17 00:01:52,040 --> 00:01:57,040 is located, let's take a look at a bird's eye view of our location. 18 00:01:57,040 --> 00:02:02,040 Virginia Beach is in the Tidewater region, located in southeastern Virginia. 19 00:02:02,040 --> 00:02:07,040 Virginia is part of the United States, which we all know is part of North America. 20 00:02:07,040 --> 00:02:12,040 The continent of North America is one of the seven continents on the planet Earth. 21 00:02:12,040 --> 00:02:17,040 Doesn't it appear that we are all interconnected in some way? 22 00:02:17,040 --> 00:02:21,040 On a global scale, have you ever wondered how the Earth really works? 23 00:02:21,040 --> 00:02:26,040 Now here, we can see the ocean, the beach, and the sky, not to mention all the people, 24 00:02:26,040 --> 00:02:28,040 animals, and marine life. 25 00:02:28,040 --> 00:02:32,040 They all play important roles in determining how our planet works. 26 00:02:32,040 --> 00:02:37,040 We can say that the Earth is whole, meaning that everything on the planet, inside and 27 00:02:37,040 --> 00:02:39,040 out, is interconnected. 28 00:02:39,040 --> 00:02:44,040 Say, do you know the branch of science that deals with studying how the Earth works? 29 00:02:44,040 --> 00:02:48,040 Well, if you said Earth science, you're getting warm. 30 00:02:48,040 --> 00:02:53,040 Scientists have established a new field of science called Earth System Science. 31 00:02:53,040 --> 00:02:59,040 The Earth is a system of individual parts that work together as a complex whole. 32 00:02:59,040 --> 00:03:03,040 Now, in order to understand this concept, we need to know what a system is, and we'll 33 00:03:03,040 --> 00:03:04,040 get to that in a minute. 34 00:03:04,040 --> 00:03:09,040 But first, throughout the program, you will be asked several inquiry-based questions. 35 00:03:09,040 --> 00:03:14,040 After the questions appear on the screen, your teacher will pause the program to allow 36 00:03:14,040 --> 00:03:17,040 you time to answer and discuss the questions. 37 00:03:17,040 --> 00:03:20,040 This is your time to explore and become critical thinkers. 38 00:03:20,040 --> 00:03:25,040 Students, take a few minutes to answer and discuss the following questions. 39 00:03:25,040 --> 00:03:27,040 What is a system? 40 00:03:27,040 --> 00:03:30,040 What are some examples of a system? 41 00:03:30,040 --> 00:03:34,040 Choose one system and draw a picture with its parts labeled. 42 00:03:34,040 --> 00:03:37,040 It's now time to pause the program. 43 00:03:37,040 --> 00:03:39,040 So what is a system? 44 00:03:39,040 --> 00:03:43,040 We use the word system when we want to describe something that is made up of different kinds 45 00:03:43,040 --> 00:03:44,040 of parts. 46 00:03:44,040 --> 00:03:48,040 These parts join together to form an interconnected whole. 47 00:03:48,040 --> 00:03:51,040 Was your definition similar to this one? 48 00:03:51,040 --> 00:03:57,040 Learning to think systematically is very useful because all sorts of systems surround us. 49 00:03:57,040 --> 00:04:01,040 In fact, each of us is our own complex system. 50 00:04:01,040 --> 00:04:06,040 For example, each of us is made up of more than 200 kinds of cells. 51 00:04:06,040 --> 00:04:13,040 These skin, bone, blood, gland, nerve, and muscle cells all join together to form an 52 00:04:13,040 --> 00:04:16,040 incredible system, an individual human person. 53 00:04:16,040 --> 00:04:21,040 Looking at ourselves as a system reveals two important features of systems. 54 00:04:21,040 --> 00:04:28,040 One, each part of a system can itself be described as a smaller system or subsystem. 55 00:04:28,040 --> 00:04:31,040 Two, a system can be very different from its parts. 56 00:04:31,040 --> 00:04:33,040 Let's look at the first feature. 57 00:04:33,040 --> 00:04:37,040 Each part of a system can also be described as a subsystem. 58 00:04:37,040 --> 00:04:41,040 One of the parts of a human system is the circulatory system. 59 00:04:41,040 --> 00:04:44,040 This system moves blood throughout your body. 60 00:04:44,040 --> 00:04:49,040 However, the circulatory system itself is a system with many parts. 61 00:04:49,040 --> 00:04:55,040 The parts of the circulatory system include the heart, veins, arteries, and blood cells. 62 00:04:55,040 --> 00:04:58,040 The heart is also a system made of parts. 63 00:04:58,040 --> 00:05:02,040 These include muscle cells, nerve cells, and valves. 64 00:05:02,040 --> 00:05:06,040 You can go even further and concentrate on the heart muscle cell. 65 00:05:06,040 --> 00:05:12,040 The heart muscle cell is made of a cell membrane, cell nucleus, and many different proteins. 66 00:05:12,040 --> 00:05:15,040 Whew! You could go crazy breaking down all those systems. 67 00:05:15,040 --> 00:05:19,040 And you know, in case you didn't realize, we are not the biggest system around. 68 00:05:19,040 --> 00:05:24,040 The human system is actually part of the system of life, which is part of the planet Earth. 69 00:05:24,040 --> 00:05:27,040 And the planet Earth is part of the solar system. 70 00:05:27,040 --> 00:05:29,040 Are you with me so far? 71 00:05:29,040 --> 00:05:34,040 So you see, each part of a system can itself be described as a system. 72 00:05:34,040 --> 00:05:39,040 The second system feature states that a system can be very different from its parts. 73 00:05:39,040 --> 00:05:42,040 A school bus is another example of a system. 74 00:05:42,040 --> 00:05:50,040 A school bus has hundreds of parts, such as the frame, engine, wheels, gas tank, and seats. 75 00:05:50,040 --> 00:05:55,040 Individually, none of these parts will get you from your home to school and back. 76 00:05:55,040 --> 00:06:01,040 Joined together as an interconnected whole, the bus system can take you back and forth to school. 77 00:06:02,040 --> 00:06:06,040 The school bus has properties that are different from the properties of its parts. 78 00:06:06,040 --> 00:06:09,040 No part of the school bus has the ability to transport you. 79 00:06:09,040 --> 00:06:13,040 Only the bus functioning as a whole system has these properties. 80 00:06:13,040 --> 00:06:17,040 So, did you come up with some good examples of systems? 81 00:06:17,040 --> 00:06:20,040 Now that you have an understanding of what a system is, 82 00:06:20,040 --> 00:06:25,040 how can you apply the concept of systems to learn more about how the Earth works? 83 00:06:25,040 --> 00:06:28,040 Recall the two features about systems. 84 00:06:28,040 --> 00:06:33,040 Number one, each part of a system can itself be described as a system. 85 00:06:33,040 --> 00:06:37,040 And number two, a system can be very different from its parts. 86 00:06:37,040 --> 00:06:43,040 Okay guys, I have three questions I want you to try and answer before we continue with the program. 87 00:06:43,040 --> 00:06:46,040 What do you think are the parts of the Earth system? 88 00:06:46,040 --> 00:06:52,040 How do the parts of the Earth system you identified work together to make Earth function as a whole? 89 00:06:52,040 --> 00:06:56,040 How is the Earth system itself part of larger systems? 90 00:06:56,040 --> 00:07:00,040 Compare your answers to all three questions with others in your class or groups. 91 00:07:00,040 --> 00:07:06,040 As the teacher pauses the program, keep in mind the two features about systems. 92 00:07:06,040 --> 00:07:08,040 How did you do with those questions? 93 00:07:08,040 --> 00:07:15,040 You know guys, NASA has come to understand that the only way to really comprehend the workings of our planet 94 00:07:15,040 --> 00:07:19,040 is to view the Earth as a whole system. 95 00:07:19,040 --> 00:07:24,040 To learn more about Earth system science and how NASA studies the Earth, 96 00:07:24,040 --> 00:07:28,040 let's go visit with Dr. Melody Ann Avery from NASA Langley Research Center. 97 00:07:28,040 --> 00:07:33,040 Earth system science is an integration of many scientific disciplines, 98 00:07:33,040 --> 00:07:42,040 including geology, biology, chemistry, physics, oceanography, meteorology, computer science, 99 00:07:43,040 --> 00:07:47,040 and all other sciences that study life and the Earth. 100 00:07:47,040 --> 00:07:53,040 NASA scientists use modern technologies to measure key features of our planet, 101 00:07:53,040 --> 00:08:00,040 such as concentrations of gases in the atmosphere and the temperature of the ocean in many locations. 102 00:08:00,040 --> 00:08:07,040 Satellites orbiting our planet provide enormous amounts of data that scientists use to try to understand 103 00:08:07,040 --> 00:08:10,040 how our planet works and the changes that are happening. 104 00:08:10,040 --> 00:08:18,040 You know, Earth science, long perceived as a minor field compared to biology and the physical sciences, 105 00:08:18,040 --> 00:08:25,040 is now emerging as an important field because of the new ability of humans to change the balance of the Earth system. 106 00:08:25,040 --> 00:08:32,040 And students, with Earth system science, you have greater opportunities to learn through inquiry, 107 00:08:32,040 --> 00:08:39,040 With Earth system science, you have greater opportunities to learn through inquiry, exploration, and discovery, 108 00:08:39,040 --> 00:08:45,040 aided by the expanded use of the Internet and visualization technology. 109 00:08:45,040 --> 00:08:52,040 I think it is fair to say that our quality of life depends on the quality of our Earth scientists 110 00:08:52,040 --> 00:08:57,040 and on the quality of our citizens' knowledge about the Earth systems. 111 00:08:57,040 --> 00:09:03,040 This is because understanding the land, air, water, and life of our planet 112 00:09:03,040 --> 00:09:07,040 gives us the knowledge to best manage the world around us. 113 00:09:07,040 --> 00:09:14,040 For the first time in history, we can dramatically change the way the planet works as a whole. 114 00:09:14,040 --> 00:09:18,040 Here are a few questions for you to think about. 115 00:09:18,040 --> 00:09:22,040 How can we change the way the planet works as a whole? 116 00:09:22,040 --> 00:09:27,040 What technologies have humans developed to make that change possible? 117 00:09:27,040 --> 00:09:31,040 Well, there are so many people living on the planet, 118 00:09:31,040 --> 00:09:37,040 and each person needs energy like food, water, heating, and transportation. 119 00:09:37,040 --> 00:09:43,040 All of this energy, if used carelessly, can change the Earth's climate, 120 00:09:43,040 --> 00:09:50,040 deplete its ozone shield, and dramatically alter the number and kinds of other organisms that share our planet. 121 00:09:50,040 --> 00:09:56,040 Students, let's take a look back at one of the questions that Jennifer posed to you earlier in the show. 122 00:09:56,040 --> 00:09:59,040 What do you think are the parts of the Earth system? 123 00:09:59,040 --> 00:10:05,040 Everything in Earth's system can be placed into one of four major subsystems, 124 00:10:05,040 --> 00:10:10,040 land, air, water, and life. 125 00:10:10,040 --> 00:10:13,040 We call these four subsystems spheres. 126 00:10:13,040 --> 00:10:24,040 Specifically, they are the lithosphere, or land, atmosphere, or air, hydrosphere, or water, and biosphere, or life. 127 00:10:24,040 --> 00:10:27,040 Let's learn a little bit about each sphere. 128 00:10:27,040 --> 00:10:32,040 Suppose you were to slice the Earth in half and view its different layers. 129 00:10:32,040 --> 00:10:34,040 What would it look like? 130 00:10:34,040 --> 00:10:38,040 The lithosphere, sometimes called the geosphere, 131 00:10:38,040 --> 00:10:42,040 contains the hard, solid land of the planet's surface called the crust, 132 00:10:42,040 --> 00:10:46,040 the semi-solid layer underneath the crust called the mantle, 133 00:10:46,040 --> 00:10:50,040 the liquid layer near the center of the planet called the outer core, 134 00:10:50,040 --> 00:10:54,040 and a solid, dense center called the inner core. 135 00:10:54,040 --> 00:10:56,040 The crust is very uneven. 136 00:10:56,040 --> 00:11:01,040 There are high mountain ranges like the Rockies and Andes, shown in red, 137 00:11:01,040 --> 00:11:08,040 huge plains or flat areas like those in Texas, Iowa, and Brazil, shown in green, 138 00:11:08,040 --> 00:11:12,040 and deep valleys along the ocean floor, shown in blue. 139 00:11:12,040 --> 00:11:15,040 The atmosphere contains all the air in our system. 140 00:11:15,040 --> 00:11:22,040 It extends from the planet's surface to more than 100 kilometers above the planet's surface. 141 00:11:22,040 --> 00:11:26,040 The atmosphere itself is composed of a number of layers. 142 00:11:26,040 --> 00:11:30,040 The middle portion of the atmosphere, the stratosphere, 143 00:11:30,040 --> 00:11:35,040 protects the organisms of the biosphere from the sun's ultraviolet radiation. 144 00:11:35,040 --> 00:11:42,040 When air temperature in the lower part of the atmosphere, the troposphere, changes, weather occurs. 145 00:11:42,040 --> 00:11:47,040 As air in the lower atmosphere is heated or cooled, it moves around the planet. 146 00:11:47,040 --> 00:11:54,040 The result can be as simple as a breeze or as complex as a tornado or hurricane. 147 00:11:54,040 --> 00:12:00,040 The hydrosphere contains all the solid, liquid, and gaseous water of the planet. 148 00:12:00,040 --> 00:12:06,040 The hydrosphere extends from Earth's surface downward several kilometers into the lithosphere 149 00:12:06,040 --> 00:12:10,040 and upward about 12 kilometers into the atmosphere. 150 00:12:10,040 --> 00:12:16,040 Solid or frozen water can be found in the form of glaciers, ice caps, and icebergs. 151 00:12:16,040 --> 00:12:19,040 This is also called the cryosphere. 152 00:12:19,040 --> 00:12:25,040 Liquid water can be found in the form of oceans, rivers, lakes, streams, 153 00:12:25,040 --> 00:12:28,040 and groundwater beneath the Earth's surface. 154 00:12:28,040 --> 00:12:33,040 Gaseous water, water vapor, can be found in the atmosphere 155 00:12:33,040 --> 00:12:37,040 and also inside your lungs where it is key to life. 156 00:12:37,040 --> 00:12:43,040 The final sphere, the biosphere, contains all the planet's living things. 157 00:12:43,040 --> 00:12:49,040 This sphere includes all of the microorganisms, plants, and animals of Earth. 158 00:12:49,040 --> 00:12:57,040 Within the biosphere, living things form ecological communities based on physical surroundings of an area. 159 00:12:57,040 --> 00:13:01,040 These communities are referred to as biomes. 160 00:13:01,040 --> 00:13:08,040 Deserts, grasslands, and tropical rainforests are three of the many biomes that exist within the biosphere. 161 00:13:08,040 --> 00:13:11,040 Can you determine what biome you live in? 162 00:13:11,040 --> 00:13:16,040 Now it is time for you and your teacher to discuss Jennifer's second question. 163 00:13:16,040 --> 00:13:22,040 How do the parts of the Earth system you identified work together to make Earth function as a whole? 164 00:13:22,040 --> 00:13:26,040 Also, now that you've compared your parts list with NASA's list, 165 00:13:26,040 --> 00:13:31,040 how does each sphere work together to make Earth function as a whole? 166 00:13:31,040 --> 00:13:37,040 This is a great time to pause the program and discuss these questions with your peers or teacher. 167 00:13:37,040 --> 00:13:44,040 Students, remember there is one last question that Jennifer would like for you to discuss with your teacher, 168 00:13:44,040 --> 00:13:50,040 and that is, how is the Earth system itself part of larger systems? 169 00:13:50,040 --> 00:13:55,040 But before you discuss that question, let's send it back to Jennifer. 170 00:13:56,040 --> 00:14:00,040 Thanks, Dr. Avery. Okay, guys, let's review. 171 00:14:00,040 --> 00:14:08,040 So far, we introduced a new approach to understanding how the Earth works called Earth System Science. 172 00:14:08,040 --> 00:14:14,040 Next, we defined what a system is and how the Earth system is composed of spheres. 173 00:14:14,040 --> 00:14:20,040 Now it's time for you to become an Earth System Scientist and apply what you've learned about systems. 174 00:14:20,040 --> 00:14:27,040 But before we begin the activity, let's review an important mathematical standard called representation. 175 00:14:27,040 --> 00:14:31,040 Representation is central to the study of mathematics. 176 00:14:31,040 --> 00:14:36,040 Basically, representations help you communicate your thinking. 177 00:14:36,040 --> 00:14:43,040 Some examples of representations include drawings, charts, graphs, symbols, and physical objects. 178 00:14:43,040 --> 00:14:48,040 By creating, comparing, and using various types of representations, 179 00:14:48,040 --> 00:14:54,040 you can develop and deepen your understanding of mathematical concepts and relationships. 180 00:14:54,040 --> 00:15:01,040 Earth System Scientists are constantly looking for patterns that can help them understand how the Earth works. 181 00:15:01,040 --> 00:15:08,040 By analyzing data, they can construct relationships among numbers and the scientific principles they are investigating. 182 00:15:08,040 --> 00:15:15,040 Often, scientists will present the relationships through some form of visual or graphical representation. 183 00:15:15,040 --> 00:15:18,040 Now that you understand the importance of representation, 184 00:15:18,040 --> 00:15:23,040 the students at Great Neck Middle School, right here in Virginia Beach, will show you this program's activity. 185 00:15:23,040 --> 00:15:26,040 It involves system diagrams. 186 00:15:26,040 --> 00:15:30,040 NASA Connect asked us to show you this program's activity. 187 00:15:30,040 --> 00:15:33,040 It's an introduction to systems. 188 00:15:33,040 --> 00:15:38,040 You can find the activity in the educator guide, which can be downloaded at the NASA Connect website. 189 00:15:38,040 --> 00:15:41,040 Here are the main objectives. 190 00:15:41,040 --> 00:15:48,040 Students will be able to, one, model a familiar Earth system by using standard system symbols. 191 00:15:48,040 --> 00:15:55,040 Number two, evaluate the global water cycle by comparing it to a working model. 192 00:15:55,040 --> 00:16:00,040 In the activity, you will be asked to create a system diagram, or flow chart, 193 00:16:00,040 --> 00:16:04,040 of one of the Earth subsystems you identified earlier in the program. 194 00:16:04,040 --> 00:16:08,040 Here is an example of how to create a system diagram. 195 00:16:08,040 --> 00:16:13,040 Class, let's model how to represent soil being warmed by the sun. 196 00:16:13,040 --> 00:16:16,040 Follow along with me using your journal. 197 00:16:16,040 --> 00:16:24,040 Students that have personal digital assistants, or PDAs, should use PicoMap to draw their system diagram. 198 00:16:24,040 --> 00:16:28,040 The sun is considered the source. 199 00:16:28,040 --> 00:16:33,040 Soil is the destination. 200 00:16:33,040 --> 00:16:43,040 Heat energy flows from the sun to the soil. 201 00:16:43,040 --> 00:16:49,040 Class, what factors might affect how much heat energy is absorbed by the soil? 202 00:16:49,040 --> 00:16:50,040 Kyle? 203 00:16:50,040 --> 00:16:51,040 Seasons. 204 00:16:51,040 --> 00:16:52,040 Great answer. 205 00:16:52,040 --> 00:16:53,040 Anyone else? 206 00:16:53,040 --> 00:16:54,040 Abby? 207 00:16:54,040 --> 00:16:56,040 Clouds and time of day. 208 00:16:56,040 --> 00:16:57,040 Good answer, Abby. 209 00:16:57,040 --> 00:17:03,040 Seasons, clouds, and time of day all affect how much heat energy is absorbed by the soil. 210 00:17:03,040 --> 00:17:08,040 Other conditions include land cover and atmospheric conditions. 211 00:17:08,040 --> 00:17:13,040 Using circles to represent conditions or factors that might affect the system. 212 00:17:13,040 --> 00:17:17,040 Let's add the three factors. 213 00:17:17,040 --> 00:17:21,040 Seasons. 214 00:17:21,040 --> 00:17:27,040 Time of day. 215 00:17:27,040 --> 00:17:32,040 And clouds. 216 00:17:32,040 --> 00:17:38,040 After your teacher completes the model example, you will gain more experience with system diagrams 217 00:17:38,040 --> 00:17:44,040 by completing a system diagram or flow chart for one of your systems you listed while watching this program. 218 00:17:44,040 --> 00:17:49,040 Students, you are strongly encouraged to develop your own symbols or representations. 219 00:17:49,040 --> 00:17:54,040 Be prepared to write a short paragraph summarizing your system. 220 00:17:54,040 --> 00:18:00,040 Now you are ready to take on the challenge of developing a system diagram for one of Earth's subsystems. 221 00:18:00,040 --> 00:18:07,040 You will work in groups to read the technical passage, The Global Water Cycle, which is located in the educator guide. 222 00:18:07,040 --> 00:18:15,040 To help you visualize the water cycle, you can download a great picture at the United States Geological Society website. 223 00:18:15,040 --> 00:18:20,040 Or you can access a wonderful animation of the water cycle at the following website. 224 00:18:20,040 --> 00:18:27,040 Using your own symbols, create a systems diagram for The Global Water Cycle as described in the reading passage. 225 00:18:27,040 --> 00:18:34,040 Students, don't forget to label your sources and destinations and label the direction of the flow. 226 00:18:34,040 --> 00:18:39,040 Have one or two groups share their diagrams and explanations to your class. 227 00:18:39,040 --> 00:18:49,040 Finally, students, you can evaluate other groups' system diagrams using the activity-specific scoring tool that can be found in the educator guide. 228 00:18:49,040 --> 00:18:56,040 Special thanks to the AIAA, student branch from George Washington University, for helping us out on this activity. 229 00:18:56,040 --> 00:18:58,040 Thanks, we had a great experience. 230 00:18:58,040 --> 00:19:04,040 And we encourage teachers to visit our website to learn more about the AIAA mentorship program in your area. 231 00:19:04,040 --> 00:19:05,040 Thanks, you guys. 232 00:19:05,040 --> 00:19:11,040 And by the way, I still haven't forgotten about that third question I asked you earlier in the program. 233 00:19:11,040 --> 00:19:15,040 How is the Earth system part of larger systems? 234 00:19:15,040 --> 00:19:18,040 I'll get your answers a little later in the program. 235 00:19:18,040 --> 00:19:22,040 But first, did you know NASA has three important mission statements? 236 00:19:22,040 --> 00:19:29,040 They are to understand and protect our home planet, to explore the universe and search for life, 237 00:19:29,040 --> 00:19:34,040 and to inspire the next generation of explorers, as only NASA can. 238 00:19:34,040 --> 00:19:40,040 So, how do these NASA mission statements apply to the study of the Earth and beyond? 239 00:19:40,040 --> 00:19:46,040 Well, Dr. J. Marshall Shepard from NASA's Office of Earth Science has the scoop. 240 00:19:46,040 --> 00:19:47,040 Thanks, Jennifer. 241 00:19:47,040 --> 00:19:56,040 The Earth Science Application Program focuses on applications of national priority to expand and accelerate the use of knowledge, science, and technologies 242 00:19:56,040 --> 00:20:03,040 resulting from the Earth Science Enterprise mission of improving predictions in weather, climate, and natural hazards. 243 00:20:03,040 --> 00:20:08,040 NASA has identified 12 applications of national priority to benefit society. 244 00:20:08,040 --> 00:20:16,040 They are energy forecasting, agricultural efficiency, carbon management, aviation safety, homeland security, 245 00:20:16,040 --> 00:20:22,040 community growth management, disaster preparedness, public health, coastal management, 246 00:20:22,040 --> 00:20:28,040 biological invasive species, water management and conservation, and air quality management. 247 00:20:28,040 --> 00:20:37,040 Essentially, NASA operates many scientific missions through partnerships with public, private, and academic institutions to study the Earth and its subsystems. 248 00:20:37,040 --> 00:20:44,040 Earth system scientists analyze the data to learn how the different subsystems work together to function as a complete whole. 249 00:20:44,040 --> 00:20:49,040 Then, federal agencies such as the Department of Energy, Federal Aviation Administration, 250 00:20:49,040 --> 00:20:56,040 U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Geological Survey Society, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 251 00:20:56,040 --> 00:21:03,040 and other agencies use our data to develop application tools to help improve the quality of life here on Earth. 252 00:21:03,040 --> 00:21:08,040 It's important that we all work together to make sure our planet is livable for many generations to come. 253 00:21:08,040 --> 00:21:10,040 Here's a question to think about. 254 00:21:10,040 --> 00:21:19,040 Choose four of the 12 applications and try to determine what Earth subsystem, lithosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, or atmosphere, 255 00:21:19,040 --> 00:21:22,040 or subsystems it's associated with. 256 00:21:22,040 --> 00:21:25,040 Then discuss your answers amongst your peers and teacher. 257 00:21:25,040 --> 00:21:32,040 As the teacher pauses the program, keep in mind how Jennifer defined what a system is earlier in the program. 258 00:21:32,040 --> 00:21:36,040 Are you starting to understand about the concept of systems? Good! 259 00:21:36,040 --> 00:21:38,040 Jennifer mentioned NASA's mission statement. 260 00:21:38,040 --> 00:21:41,040 The first part is to protect and understand our home planet. 261 00:21:41,040 --> 00:21:49,040 Data collected by NASA satellites contribute greatly to our understanding and ability to forecast weather, climate patterns, and natural hazards. 262 00:21:49,040 --> 00:21:54,040 The second part of NASA's mission statement is to explore the universe and search for life. 263 00:21:54,040 --> 00:22:01,040 Applications developed from Earth system science data could potentially be used to study the other planets in the solar system. 264 00:22:01,040 --> 00:22:08,040 Speaking of our solar system, I believe that Jennifer hasn't answered the question regarding how our Earth is a part of larger systems. 265 00:22:08,040 --> 00:22:12,040 The third part of NASA's mission statement definitely applies to you. 266 00:22:12,040 --> 00:22:15,040 To inspire the next generation of explorers. 267 00:22:15,040 --> 00:22:21,040 Understanding how the Earth works and environmental awareness are topics that challenge and excite the youth of today. 268 00:22:21,040 --> 00:22:28,040 We need future scientists and engineers like you to continue to bring real scientific breakthroughs in studying our planet. 269 00:22:28,040 --> 00:22:33,040 By the way, do you know what careers are related to the study of Earth system science? 270 00:22:33,040 --> 00:22:37,040 Well, I created a list of a variety of applications related to careers. 271 00:22:37,040 --> 00:22:39,040 Let's take a look at them. 272 00:22:39,040 --> 00:22:41,040 Forestry. 273 00:22:41,040 --> 00:22:43,040 Migration of populations. 274 00:22:43,040 --> 00:22:44,040 Water management. 275 00:22:44,040 --> 00:22:48,040 Agriculture, such as crop forecasting and fish catch. 276 00:22:48,040 --> 00:22:53,040 Health issues, such as famine or outbreaks of asthma and other diseases. 277 00:22:54,040 --> 00:22:59,040 Technological instrumentation applications based on satellite and other types of remote sensing. 278 00:22:59,040 --> 00:23:02,040 And weather forecasting and weather related events. 279 00:23:02,040 --> 00:23:07,040 Can you match some of the careers you thought of with my applications list? 280 00:23:07,040 --> 00:23:11,040 I bet you didn't realize that there are a lot of careers associated with studying the Earth. 281 00:23:11,040 --> 00:23:14,040 And mathematics is a fundamental skill in all. 282 00:23:14,040 --> 00:23:20,040 The last part of the mission statement says, as only NASA can. 283 00:23:20,040 --> 00:23:28,040 NASA contributes scientific research and technology, which our partners use to develop innovative approaches for Earth science applications worldwide. 284 00:23:28,040 --> 00:23:31,040 It's important to understand how the Earth functions as a whole. 285 00:23:31,040 --> 00:23:41,040 And to meet the needs to help manage forest fires, coastal environments, agriculture, impacts of infectious diseases, aviation safety, and hurricane forecasting. 286 00:23:42,040 --> 00:23:49,040 So the next time you watch the news and hear about hurricanes, floods, wildfires, earthquakes, or a volcano erupting. 287 00:23:49,040 --> 00:23:52,040 Take a moment and think about how it might be impacting your local area. 288 00:23:52,040 --> 00:23:54,040 Jennifer, back to you. 289 00:23:54,040 --> 00:23:56,040 Thanks, Dr. Shepard. 290 00:23:58,040 --> 00:24:05,040 Hey guys, check out this really cool web activity that should motivate you to learn more about the 12 national applications. 291 00:24:05,040 --> 00:24:07,040 Thank you, sir. 292 00:24:07,040 --> 00:24:10,040 Going fishing. 293 00:24:10,040 --> 00:24:18,040 Hey, let's take a look at two really cool web activities developed by space stars to learn more about two of the Earth's subsystems. 294 00:24:18,040 --> 00:24:21,040 The lithosphere and the hydrosphere. 295 00:24:21,040 --> 00:24:25,040 The two web activities are called Earthquake Hunters and Water World. 296 00:24:25,040 --> 00:24:29,040 And both activities can be downloaded from the NASA Connect website. 297 00:24:29,040 --> 00:24:32,040 Do you have what it takes to be an earthquake hunter? 298 00:24:32,040 --> 00:24:45,040 NASA has a very important satellite system called the Global Earthquake Satellite System, or GESS, that is very concerned with tectonic activity on the Earth's surface. 299 00:24:45,040 --> 00:24:48,040 Say, do you know what tectonic means? 300 00:24:48,040 --> 00:24:53,040 Well, it pertains to the structure or movement of the Earth's crust. 301 00:24:53,040 --> 00:25:03,040 Now, this activity lets you step into the shoes of the scientists studying information from GESS by taking a look at the tectonic activity on Earth. 302 00:25:03,040 --> 00:25:11,040 You will use a Geographic Information Systems, or GIS, software tool to allow you to analyze different types of data. 303 00:25:11,040 --> 00:25:19,040 Explore and investigate where the majority of earthquakes took place in 2002 and 2003. 304 00:25:19,040 --> 00:25:26,040 Are they around large cities, such as Los Angeles, Tokyo, Japan, or Mexico City, Mexico? 305 00:25:26,040 --> 00:25:30,040 Do they occur all over the world or in just certain locations? 306 00:25:30,040 --> 00:25:34,040 Is there a relationship between earthquakes and plate boundaries? 307 00:25:34,040 --> 00:25:41,040 It is your job to determine where the majority of earthquakes occur around the world and how many people they affect. 308 00:25:41,040 --> 00:25:44,040 Can you forecast where the next earthquakes will occur? 309 00:25:44,040 --> 00:25:50,040 In the second web activity called Water World, students will explore the continent of Antarctica. 310 00:25:50,040 --> 00:25:55,040 Approximately 90% of the world's snow and ice can be found in Antarctica. 311 00:25:55,040 --> 00:25:59,040 But there is more to this mysterious continent than just that. 312 00:25:59,040 --> 00:26:03,040 What if all the frozen snow and ice on Antarctica melted? 313 00:26:03,040 --> 00:26:09,040 Imagine what would happen if 30 million cubic kilometers of snow and ice became part of the hydrosphere. 314 00:26:09,040 --> 00:26:18,040 Students, you will analyze the map of the world when the oceans are 5 meters, 50 meters, and 73 meters above normal sea level. 315 00:26:18,040 --> 00:26:22,040 What area of the world will be affected by a 5 meter increase in sea level? 316 00:26:22,040 --> 00:26:27,040 What about a 50 meter increase or a total thaw of Antarctica? 317 00:26:27,040 --> 00:26:31,040 Will the place where you live still be above sea level? 318 00:26:31,040 --> 00:26:36,040 The answers to all these questions are left for you to decide. 319 00:26:37,040 --> 00:26:41,040 Okay guys, now we can finally get to that question that hasn't been answered. 320 00:26:41,040 --> 00:26:45,040 How is the Earth system part of larger systems? 321 00:26:45,040 --> 00:26:48,040 The answer to that question is left up to you. 322 00:26:48,040 --> 00:26:53,040 Your challenge is to answer the question based on what you learned from this program. 323 00:26:53,040 --> 00:26:59,040 Develop a PowerPoint presentation, write a report, or even design a piece of artwork. 324 00:26:59,040 --> 00:27:07,040 Students, check out the Earth System Science song on our website developed by Magic State of the Arts and heard at the end of this program. 325 00:27:07,040 --> 00:27:11,040 It might guide you in finding the answer to your question. 326 00:27:11,040 --> 00:27:15,040 Submit your presentation, report, or artwork to the NASA Connect website. 327 00:27:15,040 --> 00:27:20,040 There's a good chance that your presentation will be seen by millions of students across the country. 328 00:27:20,040 --> 00:27:22,040 We look forward to your submittals. 329 00:27:22,040 --> 00:27:25,040 Well guys, that wraps up another episode of NASA Connect. 330 00:27:25,040 --> 00:27:28,040 We'd like to thank everyone who helped make this program possible. 331 00:27:28,040 --> 00:27:31,040 Got a comment, question, or suggestion? 332 00:27:31,040 --> 00:27:36,040 Then email them to connect at lark dot nasa dot gov. 333 00:27:36,040 --> 00:27:42,040 Or pick up a pen and mail them to NASA Connect, NASA's Center for Distance Learning, 334 00:27:42,040 --> 00:27:47,040 NASA Langley Research Center, Mail Stop 400, Hampton, Virginia, 23681. 335 00:27:47,040 --> 00:27:54,040 Teachers, if you would like a videotape of this program and the accompanying educator guide, check out the NASA Connect website. 336 00:27:55,040 --> 00:28:00,040 So until next time, stay connected to math, science, technology, and NASA. 337 00:28:00,040 --> 00:28:03,040 Bye from Virginia Beach! 338 00:28:03,040 --> 00:28:06,040 Take a look at the Earth on which we live. 339 00:28:06,040 --> 00:28:08,040 How are we all connected? 340 00:28:08,040 --> 00:28:13,040 Within the systematic cycles of life, are we not all affected? 341 00:28:13,040 --> 00:28:16,040 How does it work? It's so complex. 342 00:28:16,040 --> 00:28:18,040 I tried to fathom a Googleplex. 343 00:28:18,040 --> 00:28:23,040 So many systems work as one as we orbit around the sun. 344 00:28:23,040 --> 00:28:26,040 Out here on the Olympus sphere. 345 00:28:26,040 --> 00:28:30,040 Captioning funded by the NAC Foundation of America.