Planet Earth – Complete Notes (2025 Edition)
Prepared by The Earth Science Notes Team
About These Notes
This document provides a detailed overview of Earth, our home planet. It covers Earth's structure,
atmosphere, geology, oceans, ecosystems, and its place in the universe. These notes are designed
for students, educators, and enthusiasts of Earth sciences.
Introduction to Planet Earth
Earth is the third planet from the Sun and the only known celestial body to support life. It formed
about 4.54 billion years ago and has undergone immense geological and biological evolution.
Position in the Solar System
Earth orbits the Sun at an average distance of 149.6 million km. It is the fifth largest planet and the
densest in the Solar System. Its unique atmosphere, liquid water, and magnetic field make it
habitable.
Structure of the Earth
Earth is composed of several layers: • Crust – the thin, solid outer layer (5–70 km thick) • Mantle –
hot, semi-solid rock layer beneath the crust • Outer Core – liquid iron and nickel • Inner Core – solid
iron-nickel alloy Text-style cross-section: Surface → Crust → Mantle → Outer Core → Inner Core
Tectonic Plates and Continental Drift
The Earth's lithosphere is broken into tectonic plates that move slowly over the mantle. Their
movement causes earthquakes, volcanic activity, mountain formation, and continental drift.
The Atmosphere
Earth's atmosphere is a layer of gases surrounding the planet. It protects life from harmful radiation
and regulates temperature. Layers of the atmosphere: • Troposphere – weather occurs here •
Stratosphere – contains the ozone layer • Mesosphere – meteors burn up here • Thermosphere –
auroras occur here • Exosphere – merges into space
The Hydrosphere and Oceans
The hydrosphere includes all water on Earth — oceans, rivers, lakes, and groundwater. Oceans
cover about 71% of Earth's surface. Major oceans: Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Southern, Arctic.
The Geosphere and Landforms
The geosphere includes Earth's solid features: mountains, valleys, plains, and plateaus. Processes
such as weathering, erosion, and deposition continuously shape the landscape.
The Biosphere and Life
The biosphere encompasses all living organisms and their interactions with the environment. Life
exists in a range of ecosystems, from deep oceans to mountain peaks.
The Magnetosphere
Earth's magnetic field is generated by the movement of molten iron in the outer core. It shields the
planet from solar winds and cosmic radiation.
Climate and Weather
Climate refers to long-term atmospheric patterns, while weather describes short-term changes.
Earth's climate is influenced by solar radiation, ocean currents, and greenhouse gases.
Natural Resources
Earth provides essential resources: minerals, water, soil, and fossil fuels. Sustainable management
is crucial for future generations.
Earth in Space
Earth rotates on its axis every 24 hours and revolves around the Sun every 365.25 days. Its axial tilt
causes the seasons, and its rotation influences day and night cycles.
Human Impact on Earth
Human activities such as deforestation, pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions alter Earth's
systems. Efforts like renewable energy, conservation, and climate agreements aim to mitigate
damage.
Future of Earth
Earth will continue to evolve geologically and biologically. Understanding its systems is essential for
preserving life and adapting to changes.
Conclusion
Planet Earth is a dynamic, interconnected system supporting a diverse range of life. Studying its
components helps us protect it for future generations.
Extended Earth Science Notes 1
This section provides deeper exploration of geological cycles, atmospheric dynamics, ocean
currents, and biospheric evolution. It is intended for advanced study and research.
Extended Earth Science Notes 2
This section provides deeper exploration of geological cycles, atmospheric dynamics, ocean
currents, and biospheric evolution. It is intended for advanced study and research.
Extended Earth Science Notes 3
This section provides deeper exploration of geological cycles, atmospheric dynamics, ocean
currents, and biospheric evolution. It is intended for advanced study and research.
Extended Earth Science Notes 4
This section provides deeper exploration of geological cycles, atmospheric dynamics, ocean
currents, and biospheric evolution. It is intended for advanced study and research.
Extended Earth Science Notes 5
This section provides deeper exploration of geological cycles, atmospheric dynamics, ocean
currents, and biospheric evolution. It is intended for advanced study and research.
