Earth Exploration Toolbook Chapter: Using GLOBE Data to Study the Earth System

Author:

Nick Haddad

Subject:

Science and Technology

Institution Name:

SERC

Collection:

Earth Exploration Toolbook (SERC)

Grade Level:

Secondary

Abstract:

This Earth Exploration Toolbook chapter guides users through the process of locating and graphing data that has been collected by students who participate in the GLOBE Program. Users access the online GLOBE graphing tool and produce a graph comparing four Earth system variables over two complete years. Data include Maximum Air Temperature, Soil Moisture (at depths of both 10 cm and 90 cm), and Rainfall recorded in Greenville, Pennsylvania. As they investigate this specific case study, users discover patterns in the data that reveal seasonal changes in soil moisture. The patterns provide opportunities to discuss such Earth system concepts as the reservoir, the flux or flow of moisture between different reservoirs, and the role of solar energy in driving Earth system processes.

Course Type:

Learning Module

Languages:

English

Material Type:

Activities and Labs

Media Format:

Text/HTML

Conditions of Use:

Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 1.0