ScienceJuly 4, 2026

biosphere

/ˈbaɪoʊˌsfɪr/

Definition

The global sum of all ecosystems and living organisms on Earth, including the regions of the surface, atmosphere, and hydrosphere occupied by life.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'bios' meaning 'life' and 'sphaira' meaning 'globe' or 'ball'. It was coined in the late 19th century to describe the portion of the planet where life exists.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe the interconnected life-sustaining systems on Earth that may adapt and evolve over the next 1.8 billion years to ensure survival.

Science news this week: James Webb telescope finds a never-before-seen substance, China's 'Great Green Wall' grows faster than natural trees, and a Medici murder mystery is solved

Read the full article ↗

Live Science

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