Maps

Scientists often use maps in their research. Maps help us understand where we are and what's going on around us. There are different kinds of maps. Political maps show us national and state borders. Physical maps show us the lay of the land. The maps below help us understand how the ecological and physical systems of the world work.

World Vegetation

The biosphere has many different kinds of plants. Find out about these vegetation types and where in the world they are.

Ocean Currents

Temperature, salinity, and other differences around the world cause the oceans of the hydrosphere to move in giant circles.

Ozone Layer

The atmosphere protects us from many kinds of radiation. Is this protective layer getting thinner?

Continental Drift

The continents were not always where they are today. And the geosphere is still changing.