Science Form One
Science Form One
A. What is Science?
Science is the investigation of the world and everything around us.
B. What is technology?
Technology is the use of knowledge gained through science for innovation (designing, making
and producing) tools to meet people’s needs and to make our lives easier (application).
The facts discovered through science are used to help us work faster, easier and better.
APPLIED SCIENCE
Science Technology
SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY
Focuses on gaining knowledge Focuses on making things in order to meet
people’s needs.
Pursues knowledge and understanding for Make objects and devices to meet people’s
its own sake needs
Involves discovery through careful Involves design, invention and production
experimentation
Tries to be as value free as possible Is driven by society and its values
SUMMARY: Science is the investigation of the world and everything around us while
technology is the application of scientific principles or laws.
D. The impact of technology on society
Technology in our modern everyday lives can be listed under three main headings:-
II. Information and communication: gather, store, retrieve, process, analyses, transmit
information through devices such as mobile phone, radio, television, computer, CD,
DVD, Digital camera, game console, credit cards and laser.
Positive impact
Architecture, engineering, building etc – changing of raw materials into finished products
(machines, cars, devices, scanner, roads, bridges, tall buildings).
Negative impact
Create waste such as used oil, plastics bags, empty cans, bottles and card board boxes,
people do not always dispose of the waste properly e.g. pollute the environment
E. The influence of Society on Technology
I. Travel
People travel daily form one place to another quickly and safety.
Roads rebuilt or redesigned to take account to the increase in number of cars.
II. Communication
People communicate with others anywhere and at any time led to the development of
mobile phones, internet and electronic mail, take photographs, play music and videos,
show maps using GPS (global positioning system).
Develop memory sticks, cards, powerful laptop and computers, very small cell phones
and small digital cameras.
Recycle waste products e.g. bottles, tins, papers, plastics and metals
Cars used unleaded petrol (lead is very poisonous as it can damage the brain)
Solar and wind energy is used as source of energy which do not pollute the
Environment.
Some health technologies that have led to important improvements in our health
Include:-
X-ray technology allows us to see inside the human body so that we can identify
Broken bones
The development of vaccine technology has meant that diseases that used to cause death
and illness no longer affect us.
The development of drugs such as antibiotics and pain killers has meant that many
diseases can be cured.
Technology that put people to sleep during surgical operations (anesthetics) has meant
that operations can now be carried out safely and painlessly.
2. DOING SCIENCE
Ask a question
Make up a hypothesis
Draw conclusion
1. Questions What did you observe? The answer will form a hypothesis.
2. Hypothesis is the possible/explanation to a scientific question, intelligent guess.eg why
did some things float in water and others sinks?
3. Fair test is an experiment in which only one factor is changed. This means that the
results of the experiment are unquestionable / valid.
4. Controlling variables are things that can be changed and may affect the final result.
5. Independent variable is the variable that you are interested in that will be changed in an
investigation. All the other possible variables must stay the same. If more than one
variable changes, then you do not know which variable has caused the effect.
6. Dependent variable is the variable that will not change BUT can be affected by the
change in the independent variable.
7. Control group is something that is used to compare your experimental group to. Without
a control, you cannot tell whether or not a change has happened in your experimental
group.
8. Experimental group is the group in which you made a change to the independent
variable that you are interested in.
Safety means being protected against harm which could be caused by hazards around us.
Hazards are things around us that could cause damage to us if they are not used safely, eg sharp
tools.
Biological hazards – are dangers to health that may be caused by contact with animals /
Plants can cause allergies.
Chemical hazards – Chemical that may be poisonous / may burn / damage your skin
/Clothing eg dangerous chemicals include common acids such as sulphuric acid.
Physical hazards – This type of hazard may be encountered when you are working with
high voltage electricity sources and with high energy radiation sources as X – rays.
In order to reduce the risk of injuries and accidents happening in the Laboratory, there are some
rules that should be followed by all people who work in the lab. These rules are knows as safety
guidelines.
MEASUREMENTS
I. Scalar quantity simplest measurements that have a numerical value of size but no
direction. Examples of scalar quantity are mass, length, speed, volume, width, time, area,
temperature, density.
III. Vector quantity: complex measurements that have a numerical value of size and
direction. Examples of vector quantity are force, velocity and acceleration.
N.B:-
a. ADD the magnitude of the vectors together if both vectors are acting in exactly the same
direction
b. SUBTRACT the magnitude of the vectors from each other if the vectors are acting in exactly
the opposite direction
Example – an object moving at a speed of 50km/h in the Easterly direction comes across a
force moving at a speed of 10km/h in a Westerly direction ( opposite direction)
Calculate the resultant vector
SUMMARY
Scalar quantities Vector Quantities
They can be described fully with only one They need more than one number and / or
number phrase to describe them fully.
They do not have a direction They have to include a direction
They have a fixed scale which never They do not have a fixed scale
changes eg length- ruler have a fixed scale
Classifying physical quantities into scalar and vector quantities
A. MEASURING LENGTH
- If the 0 (zero) point of the scale is not lined up properly with one end of the object being
measured. The length could be longer or shorter.
- If the rule is not placed straight and lined up along the object that is being measured.
- Parallex error; it happens because the thickness of the rule and the position from which
you are making your measurement affect how the scale on the rule lines up with the end
of the object being measured.
1. Line up the 0 point on the rule exactly with one end of the object being measured
2. Make sure that the rule lies flat and lines up evenly against the edge of the object you are
measuring
3. Use a thin transparent rule if possible to avoid parallax error
4. Make sure your eyes are directly above the end of the object you are measuring to avoid
parallax error
5. Carefully read the number on the scale that lines up with the other end of the object you
are measuring
6. Record the measurement by writing it down
B. MEASURING AREA
Area is a measure of the size of surface of something.
The units of area are always in a squared unit.
SI unit of area is the square metre (m2).
In order to determine the area of a regular object such as a square, triangle and circle we use the
following formulas
4cm
Formula = S x S
= 4cm x 4cm
= 16cm2
5mm
3mm|
Formula = L x W
= 5mmx3mm
= 15mm2
7km
radius
Area = πxr2
= 22/7 x7km x 7km
= 154 km2
- Area of a triangle we use the formula half base x height ( ½ xbxh )
3cm
4cm
c. MEASURING VOLUME
The SI unit of volume is m3 ( the cubic metre ). Other units of volume are:
REGULAR OBJECTS
The volume of regular shaped objects such as a cube and cuboid we use the formular
Height (h)
Width(w)
Length ( l )
For example, if a cuboid is 3metre long, 2metre wide and 1metre, then its volume will be
Volume = l x w x h
= 3m x 2m x 1m
= 6 m3
IRREGULAR OBJECTS
Volumes of irregular shapes such as fluids ( liquids and gas) and other solid shapes may be
measured using an instrument known as a Measuring Cylinder. This is a tall glass or plastic
container with a scale on one side. Measuring cylinders come in various sizes. Other instruments
used to measure volume are displacement can, burette, pipette, beaker, flask.
Diagram
*Parallex error – A, B, D
*Meniscus - C
Diagram
DISPLACEMENT CAN
Diagram
POSSIBLE SOURCES OF ERROR
- Not placing the measuring cylinder on a level surface when taking the reading
- Not taking the reading of volume form the bottom of the meniscus
- Avoid parallex error when taking the reading ( eye at the level of the surface of the water)
MEASURING MASS
1kg = 1000g
1g = 1000mg
1 tonne = 1000kg
- instrument is at level
- start at zero (0- point / reset it)
- wait for the meter to stop moving
- do not measure when breeze is disturbing and not greater than maximum
- avoid parallax error.
DENSITY
Density is mass of a unit volume of a substance. Compare the heaviness of equal volume of a
substance.
Density = Mass _
Volume
Buoyancy means the way in which something floats on a liquid. As the buoyancy force is
greater than force of gravity acting on a substance, the substance will stay afloat.
Diagram
MEASURING TEMPERATURE
Temperature is the measure of how hot / cold a substance is. It can also be defined as the
measure of how much heat an object has.
SI unit for temperature is Kelvins ( K ).
Instrument for measuring temperature is a thermometer.
Types of thermometer
i. Clinical thermometer – measures body temperature.
It ranges from 35 oC to 42 oC.
The scale of it measures to the nearest 0.1 oC.
It uses mercury which expands and contracts and has a thick glass.
Mercury is stored in the bulb ( reservoir).
The bulb is connected to a constriction ( kink) to prevent the backflow of mercury to the bulb.
DIAGRAM
Diagram
The table below shows the difference between a laboratory thermometer and a clinical
thermometer
Other types of thermometers are electronic thermometer, meat thermometer and outdoor
thermometer.
Although Degrees Celsius are the standard unit used to measure temperature of something, there
are two other scales of temperature measurement that are used.
A. Kelvin scale: to convert Kelvin into degrees Celsius, you use the formula.
For example, if someone said the temperature outside was 298k, what would be the temperature
in degrees Celsius. To get the answer you subtract 273k from 298k. See below.
For instance, if the temperature is 17oC, what would be the temperature in Kelvin? This is how to
get the answer.
B. Fahrenheit scale: In order to convert 0F into 0C, we can use the following formula:
For example, if you were told that the temperature is 220C, what would be the temperature in
degrees Fahrenheit?
MEASURING TIME
The SI unit for time is second(s) and the symbol is ‘s ‘. There are :
- 60 seconds in 1 minute.
- 60 minutes in 1 hour.
- 24 hours in 1 day
- 7 days in 1 week.
- 30 days in 1 month.
- 12 months in 1 year.
- 10 years in 1 decade.
- 100 years in 1 century
Diagrams
Stop clock
10
1. Growth – the increase in size of a living thing due to the increase in cell numbers.
2. Reproduction – the production of new ones from one or more parent.
3. Respiration – getting energy from food in the presence of oxygen.
4. Sensitivity – how living things respond /react to changes around them.
5. Nutrition - the feeding of organisms to provide energy.
6. Movement- the ability of an organism to move.
7. Excretion - the removal of waste products from the body or living thing
The largest groups of living things are called Kingdoms. These groups can be further divided
into smaller groups called phyla, classes, orders, family, genus and species.
For example, the complete scientific classification of humans (binomial classification) is as
follows:
Classification keys
Dichotomous – are the simplest type made up of brief descriptions arranged in numbered pairs.
A simple way to classify and identify an organism is to use something –Key.
2. Cell membrane-controls the movement in and out of the cell. It only allows certain
substances and therefore we say it –is semi permeable
6. Vacuole- contains a liquid called cell sap. It stores dissolved substances eg salts and
sugars.
7. Mitochondria for cell-produce energy which is used by the cells to carry out other
functions.
Cell Specialization
Nerve cells
*carry electrical messages as quickly as possible.
Muscle cell
*contract and relax and pull the bones to effect movement. There are also muscle cells in the
heart which help it to keep blood pumping.
Sperm cells
*it has a tail that beats and enables it to swim (move)
Specialized Plant cells
Conducting cells
*transport food, water and mineral salts through the plant e.g. Xylem cells, Phloem cells
Palisade cells
*found in the leaves and have large number of chloroplasts (photosynthesis takes place in these
cell mostly
Guard cells
* It controls the amount of water loss from plants. Open and close the stomata to allow gases to
pass in and out of the leaf. They are found in leaves
The Microscope
Plants and Animal Systems
a. Unicellular organism
An organism with only one cell e.g. amoeba, desmid, bacterium, yeast, paramecium.
b. Multi-cellular organism
An organism with many different kinds of cells e.g. a bird, cow, sponge, chimpanzee, baobao
tree
i. Tissue
A group of similar cells working together to carry out a particular function e.g. bone tissue, leaf
tissue muscle tissue
ii. Organs
Different tissues grouped together and all work together to perform one major function e.g. a
leaf, kidney, stem, heart.
iii. System
Several organs work together to form a system. Each organ has its own part to play in the
working of the system.eg digestive system in animals and transport system in plants.
Cells------->Tissues-------->Organs--------->Systems----------->Organisms
2.2: ENERGY FLOW IN LIVING THINGS
a. Leaf Structure
-The underside of a leaf has tiny holes called stomata (stoma for singular). Carbon dioxide enters
and oxygen leaves through the stomata during photosynthesis through the process of diffusion.
-The upper surface of a leaf contains palisade cells which contain a large number of chloroplasts.
Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll needed for photosynthesis.
b. Photosynthesis –is a process whereby green plants make their own food.
Green plants need four things for photosynthesis:
-carbon dioxide from the air
-water from the soil
-sunlight
-chlorophyll to trap the energy in sunlight
c. Word equation
Sunlight
Water + Carbon dioxide ------------------------> Carbohydrate + Oxygen
Chlorophyll
Step Reason
-Put the leaf in boiling water for 3 minutes -To break open the cells
-Boil the leaf in alcohol for 10 minutes in a -To remove chlorophyll
water bath
-Put the leaf in hot water -To soften the leaf
-Spread the leaf on a white tile and add a -To test the presence of starch. If starch is
few drops of iodine solution on the leaf present the leaf will turn blue-black
e. Oxygen as the other product of photosynthesis
Conclusion: If oxygen is present the glowing splint relights. This shows that oxygen is produced
during photosynthesis.
Conclusion: The part exposed to light will turn blue-black showing that photosynthesis took
place. The part covered with aluminium foil will not change colour because no photosynthesis is
taking place on those parts.
Therefore light is necessary for photosynthesis.
ii. Is carbon dioxide necessary for photosynthesis?
Leave the plants for 2 days in sunlight and test for starch.
Conclusion: Leaves from plant 1 did not turn blue-black because there was no carbon dioxide
and leaves from plant 2 turned black as carbon dioxide was
Therefore carbon dioxide is necessary for photosynthesis tom take place.
We use a variegated leave, which is a leave that has chlorophyll in some parts but don’t have in
others, (Part of the leaf is green and the other may be white, purple or yellow).
Conclusion: The part of the leaf that is green will turn blue-black while the part of the leaf that is
white, purple or yellow will remain unchanged.
Photosynthesis
Energy + Water + Carbon dioxide -----------------> Food + Oxygen
Respiration
Food + Oxygen -------------> Energy + Water + Carbon dioxide
RESPIRATION PHOTOSYNTHESIS
Energy is released Energy is captured and stored
Carbon dioxide is released Carbon dioxide is used up
Oxygen is used up Oxygen is released
Water is given out Water is taken in
Glucose is broken down Glucose is formed
A breaking down process A building up process
Takes place in the Takes place in chloroplasts
mitochondria
Takes place continuously in Only takes place in plant cells
plant and animal cells that contain chlorophyll and are
exposed to sunlight
-Increase of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere which cause the increase in the earth’s temperature
(greenhouse effect) leading to Global warming.
-Reduced oxygen content in the atmosphere causing breathing problems to people
-Removed moisture from the atmosphere (transpiration) resulting to less rainfall
-Destroy habitats of some animals which may die or move away
TRANSPORT OF SUBSTANCES IN PLANTS
Water, mineral salts and food are transported by vascular bundles in plants. These vessels are
from roots to the leaves of a plant and are made up of the xylem tissue and the phloem tissue
TRANSPIRATION
Transpiration is the loss of water through the leaves of plants. It is lost through the stomata in the
leaves.
b) Respiration
When plants and animals respire they produce and release carbon dioxide back into the
atmosphere.
c) Decomposition
When plants and animals die they decompose. During this process carbon dioxide is produced
and released into the atmosphere
d) Fossilization
This is the formation of fossil fuels from the remains of dead plants and animals. This takes place
for millions of years. Some decomposing bodies of dead plants and animals result in the
formation of fossil fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas.
e) Combustion (burning)
When fossil fuels and other materials burn, carbon dioxide is produced and released back into the
atmosphere.
a) Water
It is used for domestic purpose such as drinking, cooking, washing etc. It is also used in
agriculture and industries, it can be conserved by regularly checking water pipes for
leaks and repairing damaged pipes.
b) Soil
Soil is used for different purpose such as construction of roads and building, growing
crops, molding pots, and can be conserved by Afforestation, not burning the veld
c) Minerals
Minerals are a source of income to our country. They sustain the country’s economy.
d) Wildlife
Wildlife includes both wild animals and wild plants. It acts as tourism attraction, source
of food, source of income and source of employment, and can be conserved by
construction of wildlife resources and national parks and introduction of anti-poaching
units.
RECYCLING
This means reusing things that have been used. They may be processed before they can be used.
Electron
Shell Nucleus
An atom is the smallest particle of matter that can exist on its own. It has a nucleus. The nucleus
is made of protons and neutrons. The nucleus is surrounded by electrons which move around the
nucleus in shells. In between the shells and the nucleus is an empty space.
Protons carry a positive (+) charge. Neutrons have no charge and electrons carry a negative
charge (-).
Expansion in gases
Expansion in solids
Before heating the ball passes through the ring easily.
After heating the ball it does not pass through the ring.
Why?
Ans: the ball does not pass through the ring because on heating the particles they gain energy and
start moving away from each other thus increasing the size of the ball.
On cooling the particles they loose energy and come closer to one another- making the ball to go
back to its normal size.
Expansion in liquids
Before heating the water level is within the flask but during heating the water level rises and
water spills out. This shows that water expands when heated.
Liquid
Melting Evaporation
Freezing Condensation
DIFFUSION
It is the movement of particles from a place of high concentration to a place of low concentration
until they are evenly distributed eg perfume
The smell of perfume spread from where it was sprayed through the classroom. This showed
movement of particles (diffusion)
Diffusion in liquids
Particles in water are loosely packed and they can move a little. Potassium per manganite is used
in the experiment to colour the water so that the movement of particles can be seen clearly.
When particles gain energy they become less dense and rise up and cool particles come down.
The movement is called convectional current.
Diffusion in gases
In set up A the lid separates the two substances (air and bromine gas).
In set up B the lid has been removed and particles in the jar of air can move to the jar that
contains bromine gas and bromine particles can also move up until all the particles are evenly
distributed.
Diffusion may be observed in everyday life when we perform the following activities:
- When we spray perfumes.
- When we spray air fresheners.
- When we spray insecticides.
- When you smell good food cooking in a house.
Water Molecule
Hydrogen
Atoms Oxygen atom
Water expands when it is cooled. When water is cooled will contract, but only until it reaches a
temperature of 4 and below 4 it starts to expand.
When water expands the particles move away from each other and thus making ice to be less
dense than water.
This is why ice floats on top of water.
Properties of Acids
- All acids dissolve in water.
- Acids have a sour taste. You will recognize this property in some of the natural acids
which we use as foods. The sour taste of lemons and the sour taste of milk that has
gone bad are due to acids. However it is important that you never try to confirm this
property with laboratory acids- these are very dangerous.
- Acids change the colour of certain substances called indicators. Indicators are dyes
often obtained from animals and plants.
- Acids are corrosive.
- Acids react with some metals to make hydrogen.
- Acids react with a family of chemicals called carbonates to make carbon dioxide.
Base
It is a substance that reacts with an acid to produce a salt and water only.
It neutralises an acid.
Most bases are oxides of metals.
Examples of bases
Iron oxide Magnesium oxide
Calcium hydroxide
Most bases do not dissolve in water. Bases that dissolve in water are called alkalis.
Copper oxide, iron oxide etc do not dissolve in water, so they are called bases
Alkalis
-Is a chemical substance that turns red litmus paper blue.
-It is a substance with a pH more than 7
Examples of Alkalis
Sodium hydroxide Potassium hydroxide
Milk of magnesia
Properties of Alkalis
- Alkalis feel slippery between the fingers as if you were holding soap.
- Alkalis readily dissolve oils and fats. This property makes them very useful as
cleaning agents for greasy surfaces.
- Alkalis change the colour of certain substances called indicators.
- Alkalis are corrosive.
All alkalis are bases but only soluble bases are alkalis
Common acids and bases that we may come across and that are highly corrosive include:
- Sulphuric acid (car battery acid)
- Hydrochloric acid (swimming pool acid)
- Sodium hydroxide (caustic soda)
1.Chemical burns
More concentrated alkalis and acids burn the skin.
2.Poisoning
-Dilute the poison as quickly as possible by making the person drink water or even milk.
-Do not make the person vomit.
-Take the poisoned person to see a doctor immediately.
-Take the container of the poison with you so the appropriate treatment can be quickly decided.
UNIT 4.0: SEXUAL REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH: Human Growth And Development
Ureter
Penis Testis
Epididymis
Scrotum
Organ Function
Penis Passes semen from the male’s body to the female’s body during sex.
It also passes urine out of the body as waste.
Foreskin No special function. Is sometimes removed in a process known as
circumcision.
Urethra Transports both semen and urine to the outside. Testis
Glands Add liquid to sperm cells. The liquid (seminal fluid) nourishes the
sperm.
Sperm duct Transport sperm cells to the urethra.
Testis Produces the sperm cells.
Epididymis Stores the sperms.
Scrotum Holds the two testes outside body to keep them cool and allow for the
optimum production of sperm.
Vagina
Cervix
Organ Function
Vulva Opening which allows the penis into the vagina.
Vagina It receives the penis. It is also the birth canal.
Cervix A ring of muscles which closes the lower end of the uterus.
Uterus/ womb Where the baby grows during pregnancy.
Oviduct/ fallopian Collects ovum during ovulation. It is where fertilization takes
tube place. Transports ovum, or zygote (fertilized ovum) to uterus.
Ovaries Produce oestrogen and progesterone. They also produce the ova.
Sex Cells
The male sex cell is the sperm and the female sex cell is the ovum.
In Females
- Menstruation starts.
- Breasts develop.
- Hips become wider and rounder.
- The voice does not deepen.
- Pubic hair grows.
- Pimples may develop.
A. Oestrogen
It is produced by the ovaries and it has the following functions:
- It stimulates the development of the secondary sexual characteristics in females.
- It stimulates the maturation of the ovum during the menstrual cycle.
- It brings about the mood and behavioural changes that happen at puberty.
- It rebuilds the lining of the uterus that breaks down during menstruation.
B. Progesterone
It is another sex hormone that is produced by the ovaries in females and has the following
functions:
- It prepares the lining of the uterus for implantation. (It stimulates the thickening of
the wall of the uterus so that it is ready to receive a zygote if fertilization occurs)
- It maintains the uterus in pregnancy.
C. Testosterone
It is the most important sex hormone in males. It is produced by the testes and it has the
following functions:
- It stimulates the development of the secondary sexual characteristics.
- It stimulates sperm formation and development.
- It is responsible for changes in aggression, mood and behavior that happen to boys
during puberty.
Menopause
Women are fertile from puberty until about the ages of 45 to 55 when the menstrual cycle begins
to become irregular and eventually stops permanently. This is known as menopause and the
woman can no longer have babies.
Depo provera -No preparation needed before -Does not prevent disease
injection sexual intercourse. transmission.
-Very effective. -May bring changes to the
-Only done four times a year. menstrual cycle.
-May have some side effects.
-Its effects may last longer than
expected.
Diaphragm -Protects the cervix against -May develop holes.
infections. -Requires expertise to fit.
-Highly effective with -Must be inserted before sexual
spermicide. intercourse.
Sterilisation -Normally 100% effective. -Does not prevent disease
-Does not interrupt sex act. transmission.
-Only suitable for people who do
not want any more children
( cannot be reversed easily)
Abstinence -100% effective. -Requires extra- ordinary self
-No threats of pregnancy or control.
sexually transmitted diseases.
-No health risks.
Sexually transmitted infections are transmitted from one person to another through sexual
intercourse. They are caused by micro-organisms like fungi, virus, bacteria. They include:
THRUSH
It is transmitted through having sex with an infected person.
Cause
It is caused by a fungus
Signs and Symptoms
- White patches on the mouth and tongue
- Discharge from the penis or vagina
- A burning sensation while urinating
- Inflammation of the tip of the penis or vulva
- Itching on the vagina
Treatment
Antifungal creams such as gentian violet cream, iodine cream or nystation cream.
GONORRHOEA
It is transmitted through sexual intercourse with an injected person.
Cause
It is caused by a bacterium
In females
- Signs and symptoms are similar in both men and women, its just that they are difficult
to recognize because the female reproductive organs are inside.
Treatment
Antibiotics need to be taken as early as possible. If not treated immediately, gonorrhea can cause
sterility, miscarriage and premature labour, babies can be born infected with the disease.
SYPHILIS
Can be transmitted through sexually intercourse with an infected person.
Cause
Caused by a bacterium
Primary stage
There is a development of a sore, pimple or blister at the sexual organ, anus or mouth which
disappears on its own.
Secondary stage
Comes after a few weeks or months and includes:
- Fever - Body rush - White patches on the mouth
- Swollen glands - Loss of hair - Nausea
Latent stage
No signs and symptoms can be observed, however, for many years, the bacteria is still spreading
around the body.
Tertiary stage
It may be too late to cure the disease and death is highly possible at this stage. Organs that can be
damaged include:
- Brain - Liver
- Heart
Treatment
Antibiotics can be used.
GENITAL HERPES
Can be transmitted through sexual intercourse, kissing and mother to child transmission.
Cause
Caused by the herpes simplex virus
Treatment
Anti-viral drugs can be used to make the virus dormant. Pregnant women should visit the doctor
immediately after diagnosis. Babies born with the infection may have mental diseases.
HIV/AIDS
N.B
HIV= Human Immune deficiency Virus
AIDS = Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome
AIDS is a disease caused by a virus called HIV. The virus destroys the immune system which
defends the body against infections.
Fossil fuels
These are dead remains of plants and animals that decayed and buried under the soil, millions of
years ago. E.g. coal, natural gas, petrol, diesel and oil.
Renewable resource is a source that can be replaced or used again. Non- renewable resource is a
resource that cannot be replaced once it has been used.
The table below shows some renewable and non- renewable energy sources
SOLAR POWER
Solar power is the best alternative energy source in Botswana. Even though the solar power is
expensive to install (the panels and batteries are expensive) the maintenance costs are low. Some
of the solar power can be used in a solar cooker, a reflecting screen concentrates the sun`s rays
onto a pot with food.
The business potential of solar power in Botswana
There are businesses opportunities in supply, installation and maintenance of solar
panels, batteries and appliances.
The development of solar technology in Botswana will assist many small businesses,
particularly in the rural areas which are not supplied by the national power grid.
There are some research opportunities in this field of alternative energy supply.
WIND POWER
Wind energy has been used in Botswana on a small scale. It may be used in pumping water for
livestock and for domestic supply in rural areas.
The business potential of wind power in Botswana
The business potential of Botswana is very small but there is a limited supply of pumps
and storage tanks.
Wind is a valuable source of energy for farmers, particularly in rural areas.
HYDROELECTRIC POWER
There is no hydroelectric power generated in Botswana but Botswana is part of the West
Corridor Power Project which involves using the hydroelectric energy of the Congo River at the
Inga rapids. The power generation is estimated to be 3500 megawatts. 2000 megawatts will be
used by South Africa and the rest will be used be shared by Angola, Namibia, Botswana and the
DRC. Construction is expected to start in 2009 and be completed by 2012.
The business potential of hydroelectric power in Botswana
The costs of developing hydroelectric power are very high. The costs have to be shared by
countries. The establishment of Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) in 1993 which was signed
by all SADC countries in 1995 was aimed at making the development of alternative energy
sources possible for small countries.
Financial implications
-Wood collected from the environment free of charge. Hence makes it a source of fuel in most
areas.
-Coal is an expensive source of fuel in Botswana. Not so many people can afford to buy it.
-Paraffin is expensive because it is imported from other countries
-Solar panels are expensive to buy and install but maintenance or running cost is low.
Environmental implications
-Large scale deforestation as trees are chopped down
-Less trees = less shade. Moisture evaporates from the soil and the soil dries out. Dry soils erode
more quickly.
-Wood, unless it is very carefully managed, is a non-renewable resource.
-Burning of coal causes air pollution and is contributes to greenhouse effect and global warming.
-Coal is a non-renewable energy resource.
-Paraffin is a non-renewable resource
-Burning of paraffin releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
-Burning of gas releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
-Solar power is a renewable resource
-Solar power does not cause water or air pollution
Examples;
1. The chemical energy stored in petrol is converted into heat in a car engine .This heat energy is
used to move mechanical parts of the car causing the car to move. Thus chemical energy is
converted into kinetic energy.
2. In a thermal power station, the coal is burned to heat water and change it into steam. The
steam turns the turbines which in turn produce electricity. The chemical energy stored in coal is
converted into electrical energy.
3. When we burn wood, the chemical potential energy is converted into heat energy. etc
Table below gives approximate speed of sound in various materials and how temperature affects
the speed of sound in air.
Longitudinal wave
A wave in which particles of the medium move parallel (in the same direction) to the movement
of the wave. E.g. sound wave, etc.
Transverse wave
A wave in which particles of the medium move in a direction perpendicular (at 90 ̊ angle) to the
direction in which the wave moves. e.g. a wave in water , electromagnetic waves , etc
Difference between wavelength, frequency and amplitude
Wavelength
Is the shortest distance between two identical points on a wave.
Frequency
Is how often the particles of the medium vibrate when a wave passes through the medium.
Amplitude
Is the maximum amount of movement of a particle of the medium from its rest position. It can be
said as the distance from rest to crest or from the rest position to the trough position.
HEARING
The sense of hearing enables us to hear information from our environment. The ears are the
organs responsible for hearing and also for the maintenance of balance. The ears transfer energy
of sound waves to special cells, which send signals to the brain. The brain interprets the signals
as sound.
The movement of sound waves into the ear and electric signals to the brain
The human eardrum is a stretched membrane. When sound waves hit the eardrum, it vibrates
and the brain interprets the vibrations as sound. The eardrum sends the vibrations to the small
bones. The stirrup passes the vibrations along the cochlea. Cochlea contains thousands hair like
nerve endings called cilia. When cochlea vibrates, it moves the cilia. The cilia change messages
to electrical signals which are sent to the brain through auditory nerve. The brain translates the
electric signals and tells us what we are hearing.
The table below shows the different degrees of hearing impairment that can happen.
PERSONAL HYGIENE
CARING FOR TEETH
The Tooth
Tooth structure
The tooth is made up of two main parts,
-The root
It is made up of gum, cementum, periodontal ligament and nerve and blood supply. This is the
part of the tooth that is found cemented in the gum and that attaches to the jaw bone. The tooth is
held in place in the gum by cementum.
-The crown
It is made up of enamel, dentine and pulp cavity. This is the part that sticks out the gum. It is the
part that grinds and cut the food. The shape of the crown depends on the function of the tooth.
An adult person has 32 teeth. Teeth of children from 4 months to six years are called milk teeth.
Types of Teeth
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is caused by mouth acids. The acids dissolve the tooth enamel creating a hole
cavity. When the hole reaches pulp cavity serve pain is felt
Stages of Decay
Gum disease
Gum disease is caused by accumulation of plaque around the teeth. (Plaque is a mixture of food,
saliva and bacteria)
Plaque irritates the gum causing swelling.
Slowly the gum gets damaged resulting in teeth being exposed to infection.
Gum disease is also caused by
-lack of vitamin C (scurvy)
-smoking
-stress
-poor nutrition
Dental Care
-Eat food rich in vitamins eg oranges
-Brush teeth after meals
-Use tooth brush/ dental floss to remove food left between teeth
-Use toothpaste to clean teeth
(NB Toothpaste is alkaline so it neutralizes acids in the mouth)
Why do the molar and pre-molars decay faster than the incisors and canines?
Because they have cusps which trap food.
-Eat a balanced diet
-Visit a dentist to check/clean your teeth at least twice a year
-Brush your teeth for at least 3 minutes.
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
Infectious disease is any type of disease caused by micro-organisms. These diseases are caused
by virus, bacteria, fungi and protozoa. Micro-organisms that cause diseases are called pathogens.
Communicable diseases are diseases that can be passed from one person to another.
- All diseases are also infectious diseases.
Non communicable diseases are diseases that cannot be passed from one person to another or
organism to another.
i) Causative agents => are microbes that cause a disease eg bacteria, virus, protozoa,
fungus etc.
ii) Vectors => A vector is a carrier of a disease causing agent eg food, water, air,
animals. Vectors often contain the causative agent that hide or live on or in them.
Life Cycles
A life cycle is a summary of the development stage of an organism from the first stage of
development (the egg) to the last mature adult stage. Though all life cycles follow the same
circular pattern the actual development stage may differ from organism to organism.
i) House flies
The house fly is an insect and it is a vector of a number of diseases. They spread diseases like
diarrhea, typhoid, cholera, etc. A house fly feeds mostly on rotting materials eg animal dung,
human faeces, etc. When a house fly visits such places, bacteria present in the rotting materials
cling to its body especially its legs. Later when this fly walks over a place of freshly cooked food
these bacteria fall on the food. Also when the house fly feeds it spits saliva containing germs on
to the food.
Control of Houseflies
-Avoid defecating in public places
-Place waste food in sealed containers
-Cover all cooked food
-Kill adult houseflies by spraying with insecticides
-Pitlatrine must be deep enough to trap the flies that have entered.
The mosquito is also an insect. There are different types of mosquito that is:
* Female Anopheles Mosquito- spreads malaria (female)
Malaria is caused by the female anopheles mosquito. Malaria is passed from person to person
when infected mosquito bites them. Malaria passes through a series of developmental stages.
Some of these stages develop further in the mosquito and others develop further in human. The
mosquito and human are therefore capable of infecting each other that is if an uninfected
mosquito bites an infected person, then the mosquito becomes infected. If an infected mosquito
bites an uninfected person, then the person becomes infected.
*Eggs –the adult mosquito lays egg in batches of 200 or so in stagnant or slow moving water.
They trap air bubbles in order to float.
*Larva- After a day the larvae hatch from the eggs. The larvae have breathing tubes called
spiracles on their bodies. They can often hang out of the surface of water.
*Pupa- after 12 days the larvae changes into pupae which also breathe through tubes called
siphons. The siphons are open to the atmosphere while pupae themselves are under the water.
The pupae do not feed.
*Adult- after about 2 days the pupae change into an adult. The female starts laying eggs and the
life cycle is repeated.
The mouth part of the female mosquitoes are adapted for sucking blood while the male mosquito
live on plant juices.
Control of Mosquitoes
-Draining stagnant water
-Spraying still water with oil to kill larvae and pupae
-Using mosquito coils to kill adult mosquitoes
-Sleeping under mosquito nets
iii) Bilharzia Fluke
Unlike houseflies and mosquitoes, the bilharzias fluke is not a vector for disease causing
parasites. It is an organism that actually causes the disease itself. It is a small flatworm which is
transmitted by water rather than insects. The adult fluke is a parasite and lives in the veins of the
rectum or bladder.
Adult fluke lives in man and produces eggs. The eggs are passed out along with urine or faeces.
If the eggs reach the water they hatch into larvae. The larvae can only develop inside a water
snail. In the snail these larvae develop into embryo. These embryo flukes leave the snail and
swim about in water. If a person swims or stands in the infected water the embryo penetrate in
the skin and enter the blood. These embryos then settle in the rectum or bladder and develop into
adults.
Metamorphosis
Many insects eg housefly, mosquito etc have a life cycle in which there is a complete change
from egg to adult. This is termed as complete metamorphosis.
Egg ------------> Larva ---------------> Pupa ----------------> Adult
Food Poisoning
This is food/ drink containing harmful micro- organisms
iii) Refrigeration => The low temperature stops the growth of microbes.
iv) Canning => The microbes are killed by cooking the food. The food is placed in
sterile tins or glass jars while still very hot. The container is then sealed. The seal
prevents the food from becoming contaminated again.
v) Pasteurisation => This method is commonly used to treat milk. The milk is heated
for thirty minutes at temperature between 50 C and 60 C.
vi) Pickling => Pickling is another ancient method that is used to preserve meats, fruits
and vegetables. Pickling combines the preservative qualities of an acid, such as
vinegar. Acids stops bacterial growth.
vii) Fermenting => uses yeast to produce alcohol. Alcohol is a good preservative because
it kills bacteria. When you ferment grape juice you create wine, which will last quite
a long time without refrigeration.
viii) Carbonating => water in which carbon dioxide gas has been dissolved under pressure.
By taking out oxygen, carbonated water stops bacterial growth..
ix) Cheese making => the milk in cheese becomes something completely unlike milk.
This process makes use of bacteria, enzymes and naturally formed acids to solidify
milk proteins and fat and preserve them.
x) Irradiation => is a process that uses electron beams, X-rays or gamma rays. It
produces a similar effect to pasteurization, cooking or other forms of heat treatment,
but with less effect on look and texture.
Nuclear radiation is able to kill bacteria without changing the properties of the food. So, if you
seal food in plastic and then radiate it, the food will become sterile and can be stored on a shelf
without refrigeration. Unlike canning, the taste or texture of the food does not change when you
irradiate it. Therefore it’s often used to preserve foods such as herbs or spices so that their
flavours or aromas are not changed.
Irradiation can also delay fruit ripening and help stop vegetables such as potatoes and onions
from sprouting.
xi) Chemical food preservation => there are three classes of chemical preservatives
commonly used in foods
*Benzoates (such as sodium benzoate)
*Nitrites (such as sodium nitrite)
*Sulphites (such as sulphur dioxide)
All these chemicals either slow down the activity of bacteria or kill the bacteria.
NUTRITION : DIGESTION
Digestion is the process in which food is broken down into simpler substances or parts that can
then be absorbed (taken up) by the body. This can be mechanical- reducing food in size to
increase its surface area so that chemicals can act on it. It can also be chemical- breaking down
of food by chemical substances called enzymes.
IMPORTANCE OF DIGESTION
THE ENZYMES RESPONSIBLE FOR FOOD DIGESTION AND THE END PRODUCTS
OF DIGESTION
Digestive enzyme Secreted from Food type digested End product of digestion
Salivary amylase -Salivary lands Starch (Complex Glucose and other simple
& pancreatic -Pancreas carbohydrate) sugars
amylase
Protease -Stomach Protein Amino acids
(Pepsin & trypsin) -Pancreas
Lipase Pancreas Fat Fatty acids and glycerol
ABSORPTION OF FOOD INTO THE BLOOD STREAM
The simple molecules obtained during chemical food digestion need to get from the digestive
system to every cell in the body. The blood system is the transport system that carries the simple
molecules of food to the cells. The walls of the small intestine have tiny finger-like projections
on them called villi (singular: villus). Blood capillaries and special lymph vessels called lacteals
are found in the villi. Simple sugar molecules and amino acids diffuse across the membrane of
the villus into the blood system. Fatty acids and glycerol diffuse into the lacteals. The lacteals
join up to become lymph vessels which eventually empty the fatty acids and glycerol into the
blood stream too.
TESTING FOR STARCH
2. Emulsion test
A drug is a chemical substance that has an effect on our body when it is introduced.
Medicinal drugs are taken to cure an illness. They are also used to reduce the symptoms of
illness and make you feel better. Examples are painkillers- paracetamol, antibiotics- penicillin
and cough medicines. Medicinal drugs are not usually harmful to the person taking them unless
abused.
Non-medicinal drugs do not have any medical use. They are often taken with the intention of
changing the mood of the user. Some non-medicinal drugs are legal, for example alcohol and
nicotine in tobacco. Some non-medicinal drugs are illegal, for example cannibas (dagga),
cocaine and heroin.
Functions of Blood
Blood perform the following functions:
- Transportation - Regulation of body temperature
- Defence against diseases - Blood clotting
1.TRANSPORTATION
i) Haemoglobin in red blood cells combine with oxygen in the lungs. It is then carried to all cells
of the body.
ii) The blood also carries carbon dioxide from the tissues of the lungs.
iii)Blood takes the digested food materials such as glucose, amino acids, lipids, vitamins and
minerals from the intestine and carries them to the liver for storage.
iv) The hormones of the glands are carried by the blood to the tissues.
v) Nitrogenous waste such as urea are carried to the kidneys by the purpose of excretion.
4.Blood Clotting
Blood platelets help in blood clotting at the site of injuries.
COMPONENTS FUNCTIONS
RED BLOOD CELLS
-They are red because they contain a molecule called -Red blood cells carry oxygen
haemoglobin. and carbon dioxide around the
-Haemoglobin is the molecule that caries oxygen body.
around the body inside the red blood cell.
-They are shaped like a disc.
-They have no nucleus.
-They are produced in the bone marrow.
WHITE BLOOD CELLS (also known as -They defend the body against
LEUKOCYTES) diseases.
-These are the cells of the immune system. *Phagocytes- detect and eat up
-There are different types of white blood cells and bacteria or germs (therefore they
have different shapes. are large and change shape).
-They have a nucleus *Lymphocytes- identify the
germs with its huge nucleus and
sends out antibodies.
BLOOD PLATELETS (THROMBOCYTES) -When a wound occurs, they stick
-They are not proper cells; they are small fragments together with other substances to
of cells without a nucleus. form a blood clot. This stops
-They are produced in the bone marrow. blood from coming out of the
body.
BLOOD PLASMA -Most of the substances found in
-Plasma is 90% water. The other 10% contains blood are transported around the
minerals, proteins, hormones, antibodies, proteins body in the plasma.
involved in blood clot formation, and waste products
dissolved in water.
BLOOD GROUPS
There are four blood types known as A, B, AB and O.
BLOOD TRANSFUSION
Is when the blood of one person (a donor) is given to another person (the recipient) by letting it
flow into the body of the recipient through a needle placed in one of their veins.
2. Blood must be tested for diseases such as Hepatitis, HIV/AIDS and other STIs. This is to
ensure that the recipients are not given infected blood from the donors.
3. Blood must be warmed up to normal body temperature. This is to ensure that there are no
disparities between the blood donated and the victim’s blood.
4. All equipment that is used such as containers, needles and tubes must be sterilized to
ensure utmost hygiene.
Deoxygenated blood enters the heart on the right side through the vena cava. It passes through
the right auricle to the right ventricle. When the heart contracts(beats) it pumps blood to the
lungs through the pulmonary artery.
Oxygenated blood passes from the lungs to the left side of the heart through the pulmonary vein
into the left auricle. It then passes to the left ventricle where it is pumped out of heart through the
aorta.
Veins
Capillaries Have walls that are one cell Provide cells with nutrients
thick and no valves and oxygen from the blood
cells.
1. Heart attacks
2. Strokes
It may occur as a result of any of the following:
-Arteries at the brain can be blocked by clots.
-Arteries at the brain can be blocked by cholesterol.
-Arteries at the brain can rupture causing aneurysms in the brain.
A stroke can lead to paralysis and death in severe cases.
3. Anaemia
It is a shortage of oxygen in the body due to:
-shortage of red blood cells
- shortage of blood.
-sickle-shaped red blood cells.
-not enough iron in the diet.
-the destruction of red blood cells by diseases.
4. HIV/AIDS
It is a virus which has the following effects on the circulatory system:
-destruction of white blood cells
-poor immunity
-vulnerability to different diseases
7. Spasm
This is an uncontrolled, repeated contraction of the heart muscles in the coronary artery walls.
Breathing
It is the taking in of air (inhaling) and taking out of air (exhaling). When breathing oxygen gets
into our bodies through lungs.
Breathing in (inhaling)
- The ribs move up and out.
- The diaphragm contracts and rises.
- As a result, the volume of the chest is increased.
- The lungs expand.
- Air is forced into the lungs.
Oxygen diffuses from the lungs into the bloodstream. The blood transports oxygen to all parts of
the body where is needed.
Carbon dioxide diffuses from the cells where it is as a waste product of metabolism. It is carried
by the blood to the lungs. It crosses into the lungs by diffusion. It exits the lungs during
exhalation.
Air breathed out will turn lime water milky, while air breathed in will not turn the lime water.
During exercise the pulse rate is high. This means that the heart is beating faster per unit time.
The heart beats faster to carry more nutrients and oxygen to the body parts. As a result, the
breathing rate increases to supply more oxygen to respiring cells and remove carbon dioxide
from them.
Excretion is the removal of the waste products of metabolism (chemical reactions) that take place
in the body.
Excretion is the removal of waste products produced by the processes that take place in cells
while Egestion is the removal of undigested food as solid waste (faeces).
Magnetism
Is a property of matter which produces a field of attractive (bringing together) or repulsive
(forcing apart) forces. Magnetism is the force that causes a nail or paper clip to be pulled toward
a magnet.
When we change something from being non-magnetic to being magnetic, we say that
magnetism is induced in the material.
Methods of Magnetisation
There are two main ways that we can induce magnetism in non-magnetic materials:
Electrically
Stroking an object with a magnet
Double stoke method: a piece of iron or steel is stroked by two strng magnets using
opposite ends of the magnets. This produces a stronger magnet.
Electric Charge
Electrostatic Charging causes static electricity. Static electricity is electricity which does not
move. When we charge objects by friction, and they retain their charge, the charged objects are
said to have static electricity.
All matter is made up of tiny particles called atoms. Atoms are made up of protons, neutrons and
electrons. An atom has an equal number of protons and electrons, and their total charges balance
each other. Protons are positively charged and electrons are negatively charged. The protons
are bound very tightly into the nucleus and cannot escape but the electrons can move towards an
atom or away from it.
To measure the size of an electric charge we have to use standard units. The SI unit of charge is
the Coulomb (C). One coulomb is the amount of charge accumulated in one second by a current
of one ampere.
Attraction
Attraction is a force that pulls two objects together. A positive charge will attract a negative
charge.
Most of the electricity that is used throughout the world is generated in large power stations that
burn coal or oil. The energy changes in a power station are:
*The burning of fossil fuels in a boiler produces heat energy that changes water into steam.
*The steam is used to turn a large turbine. As the turbine turns, it also turns a large dynamo
called a generator.
*The generator converts this kinetic energy into electrical energy.
Effects of Electricity
The Heating effect of electricity and its applications
Electrical energy can be converted to heat energy.
A solution of copper sulphate is able to conduct electricity. You will have seen some of the signs
of a chemical reaction;
- Bubbles of gas were made at the carbon rod connected to the positive side of the battery.
- The carbon rod connected to the negative terminal of the power supply became covered
with copper.
The chemical effect of electricity is used in a number of applications:
1. Electrolysis- is the breaking down a liquid chemical compound (an electrolyte) by
passing an electric current through it. For example it is used in industries to extract metals
such as copper and aluminium from ore.
2. Electroplating- is similar to electrolysis.
3. Electrical cells (batteries)- the batteries that we use in torches and radios are also
examples of the chemical effects of electricity.
When a coil of wire is wound around an iron nail and current is allowed to pass through the coil,
a magnetic field is created. When the current flows, the iron nail is turned into a magnet. We call
this an electromagnet.
Electromagnets are used in:
1. Communication devices such as the telephone, radio and television.
2. Industry to operate cranes, generators, motors and transformers.
3. The home to operate electric door bells and some toys.
Electric Power Consumption: The Power Rating of an Electric Appliance to its Electrical
Energy Consumption
The power of an appliance tells you how much energy it consumes in one second. To consume
something is to use it up. Power is measured in units called watts (W) and kilowatts (kW).
Power (W) = Volts x Amps or W = Vx A
One kilowatt = One thousand watts: 1 kW = 1000W
One megawatt = One million watts: 1mW = 1 000 000W
An electricity meter placed in your school or house by the power corporation records the number
of units used.
The cost of using any appliance can be calculated using the formula:
Cost = electric power x time x cost per kWh
Or
Cost = number of units(power x time) x cost per unit
Some examples:
1. Calculate the cost of running a 100W light bulb for four hours if the Power Corporation
charges P0. 95 per unit.
100W = 0.1 kW
Cost = 0.1 x 4 x 0. 95 = P0.38
Or
Cost = (0.1 x 4) x 0.95 = 0.4 x 0.95 = P0.38
2. Calculate the cost of using a 3kW heater for 30 minutes (1kWh costs P0.95)
30 minutes = 0.5 hrs
Cost = 3 x 0.5 x 0.95 = (P1.425) = P1.43
Fuses: It is a safety device used to prevent wires from becoming too hot. A fuse contains a strip
of metal that will melt easily when heated or when overloaded with current. In this way the
appliance is protected from damage.
Fuses are normally rated 1A, 3A, 5A and 13A.
The earth wire is connected to earth for safety purposes. An appliance that has a metal casing
must be connected to earth. If there is a broken wire in the appliance and it touches the metal
casing of the appliance and you then touch that appliance, you are the direct contact between the
live electric wire and the earth. You can suffer from a serious electrical shock.
Modern appliances are double insulated, this means that the electrical parts in the appliance are
not in contact with the outer casing of the appliance, eg hairdryers, radios, etc. These appliances
usually carry the double insulation symbol
A fuse must always be connected to the live wire so that the electricity stops flowing when the
fuse breaks.
A switch must also be to the live wire so that the appliance is not live when it is switched off.
1. Always turn off the electricity at the main fuse box before doing any electrical work.
2. Make sure that plugs are wired correctly and have the correct size of fuse.
3. Check cables and plugs for damage. Replace any broken or cracked plugs and damaged
cables.
4. Do not pull the plug from a wall socket by pulling on the cable. Hold the plug itself.
5. Never use wet hands to switch appliances on and off or to carry working appliances.
6. Never use electrical appliances in a bathroom or near a kitchen sink.
7. Do not plug too many appliances into one socket. Use multi-adaptors as little as possible.
8. Switch off televisions which use an outside aerial and computers during a thunderstorm.
THE SOLAR SYSTEM
1.Lithosphere
It is the solid part of the planet earth. It is made up of the layers known as the crust and the upper
mantle. The body of the earth is made up of 3 layers, the crust, mantle and the core.
Mantle -molten (semi liquid) due to high pressure and high temperature (1600oC). It is made up
of minerals which contain iron and other dense minerals.
Crust - solid rocky crust that covers the whole planet. It is the visible part of the earth that we
live on.
2.Hydrosphere
It is the water part of the earth and it includes oceans, seas, lakes, ponds, rivers and streams.
Water in the earth heats up more slowly and cools down more slowly than land and so the earth’s
temperature does not change rapidly. The continous movement of water is described by the water
cycle.
Liquid water is changed into water vapour in a process called evaporation. Most water
evaporates from the oceans.
Water vapour changes to liquid water in a process called condensation.
Water in a liquid (rain) or solid form (hail or snow) falls back to the Earth’s surface in a
process known as precipitation.
Water returns to the oceans as surface runoff or groundwater.
3.Biosphere
The zone where life is found. It is made up of living organisms (plants and animals).
It is divided into biomes. A biome is a large area which is characterized by a similar climate,
flora (plants), fauna (animals) and soil eg grassland.
4.Atmosphere
A thin layer of air which surrounds the earth. It is held in place by the force of gravity.
- Contains water vapour which may condense to form clouds and eventually rain.
- It is an important part of the water cycle.
- Almost all matter occurs in the atmosphere.
- Contains carbon dioxide for photosynthesis.
- Shields life on earth from radiation from the sun.
- Air and wind movement help in pollination.
Careers in Geo-science
1. Economic and mining geologist
Looks for metallic and non-metallic resources, studies mineral deposits, finds environmentally
safe ways of disposing of waste materials from mining activities.
2. Geologist
Studies the materials, processes, products, physical nature and history of the earth.
3. Climatologist
Studies weather processes; climate and climate change and pollution.
4. Mineralogist
Studies mineral formation, composition and properties.
5. Soil scientist
Studies soils and their properties to determine how to sustain farming and how to look after our
soils.
6. Paleontologist
Studies fossils to understand past life forms and their changes through time and to reconstruct
past environments