Question

this isn't exactly chemistry but can someone help me out with this earth science study guide?
UNIT A SCIENCE STUDY GUIDE

• Explain why there are distinct horizons in soil – Be able to describe them.
Identify different types of maps and what they can be used for
Locate points on the Earth's surface by their latitude and longitude
Describe the advantages and disadvantages of different types of maps
Explain what makes topographic maps different from other maps
Describe the Earth's two majorsources of energy
Explainhowhumansaffect Earth's systems
List five characteristicsof minerals

Answer 1

I'm a Chemistry student but most of the questions are Geography-related, so I can only reply to a couple of them. I guess you should ask in that category.

So, the Earth's source of energy is the Sun. Solar energy triggers photosynthesis which allows organic compounds to be formed, so solar energy is transformed into energy of chemical bonds. It is what all living organisms live from. After dying, they may turn into fossil fuels which is a resource we use widely.

Honestly, I am a bit confused why they ask you to point out two main sources of energy. I believe they mean Solar energy and energy of fossil fuels but my suggestion is to ask a person doing Geography.

On the question about human effect on the environment - basically, we alter the natural cycles of the elements. For example the Carbon cycle is disrupted due to the enormous amounts of CO2 expelled in the atmosphere. The equilibrium of Carbon-containing compopunds is affected.

Lastly, some properties of minerals include colour, opacity, lustre, hardness, crystal lattice type, cleavage, and more.