Brian J. Skinner

The Third Edition of Blue Planet: An Introduction to Earth System Science treats earth science from a systems perspective, showing how the four spheres (lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, biosphere) are interrelated. In this edition, significant emphasis is placed on cycling of materials and energy, and interactions among the spheres. The text also places much clearer emphasis on basic science, which can...

The Blue Planet: An Introduction to Earth System Sciences, 3rd Edition, is an innovative text for the earth systems science course. It approaches earth science from a systems perspective, illustrating the five spheres and how they are interrelated. The book includes numerous photos and figures, enhancing the reader's understanding of the material presented. This, combined with the new media available...