Patterns in data can by identified through the use of images, charts, and graphs to understand Earth systems.
Cause and effect relationships can be used to predict future trends in Earth systems.
Models can be used to study systems and phenomena that are too large, too small, too fast, or too slow to observe.
Models can be used to study systems and their interactions.
Energy and matter cannot be created or destroyed, but may be moved or changed.
Energy transfer can be tracked through natural systems and cycles of matter.
Complex structures and systems can be modeled and analyzed to determine how they function.
Stability and change in systems can be studied over time and at different scales.
Small changes in one part of a system may cause large changes in a different part of the system.