Earth has an ancient history of slow and gradual surface changes, punctuated with quick but powerful geologic events like volcanic eruptions, flooding, and earthquakes. Water and wind play a significant role in changing Earth's surface. The effects of wind and water can cause both slow and quick changes to the surface of the Earth. Scientists and engineers design solutions to slow or prevent wind or water from changing the land.

Living things (plants and animals, including humans) need water, air, and resources from the land to survive and live in habitats that provide these necessities. The physical characteristics of plants and animals reflect the habitat in which they live. Animals also have modified behaviors that help them survive, grow, and meet their needs. Humans sometimes mimic plant and animal adaptations to survive in their environment.

All things are made of matter which exists with different forms and properties. Matter can be described and classified by its observable properties. Materials with certain properties are well-suited for specific uses. Heating or cooling some types of matter may or may not irreversibly change their properties.