Earth: Power of the Planet

Watch Earth: Power of the Planet

  • 2007
  • 1 Season

Earth: Power of the Planet is a six-part documentary series produced by BBC Two. The series takes viewers on a journey through Earth's geological history, exploring the forces that have shaped, and continue to shape, our planet. Through stunning cinematography, expert interviews, and cutting-edge science, the series presents a vivid picture of our planet's past, present, and future.

Each episode of the series focuses on a particular aspect of Earth's geology, from the catastrophic events that formed our planet billions of years ago, to the powerful forces that continue to transform our world today. The first episode, "Volcano", explores the role that volcanic activity has played in shaping Earth's landscape and atmosphere. It takes viewers on a journey to some of the most active and dangerous volcanoes on the planet, and introduces them to the scientists who study these natural wonders.

The second episode, "Atmosphere", investigates the complex relationship between Earth's atmosphere and the life that thrives within it. It examines the role of greenhouse gases in regulating our planet's temperature, and the impact that human activities are having on this delicate balance. The episode also explores the fascinating science behind weather forecasting, and the powerful storms that drive our planet's weather systems.

The third episode, "Ice", takes viewers to the extremes of Earth's polar regions, where massive ice sheets hold clues to our planet's past and present climate. The episode examines the science behind ice core studies, and shows how these tiny frozen bubbles of air can provide scientists with insights into past climate patterns. It also highlights the impact that melting polar ice is having on our planet's sea levels and ecosystems.

The fourth episode, "Oceans", explores the remarkable diversity of life that exists beneath the waves. It examines how the world's oceans are changing in response to human activities, and the potential impact that these changes could have on marine life and ecosystems. The episode also looks at the critical role that oceans play in regulating our planet's climate, and the delicate balance that exists between ocean currents and global weather systems.

The fifth episode, "Rare Earth", focuses on the elements that make up our planet and the role they play in shaping our world. It explores the science behind geology and mineralogy, and shows how rare earth minerals are essential for modern technology. The episode also examines the impact that mining and industry are having on our planet's environment, and the push towards more sustainable and ethical practices.

The final episode, "Survival", brings together all of the themes explored throughout the series to consider the future of our planet. It examines the impact that human activities are having on our planet's ecosystems, and the potential implications for life on Earth. The episode also explores the science behind climate change predictions, and the challenges that must be faced to build a sustainable future for all life on Earth.

Throughout the series, viewers are introduced to a variety of experts from a range of disciplines, including geologists, climatologists, oceanographers, and biologists. These experts provide valuable insights into the science behind Earth's geology and climate, and help to bring the subject matter alive for viewers with their passion and expertise.

Overall, Earth: Power of the Planet is a stunning and informative exploration of our planet's geological history and the powerful forces that have shaped it. The series provides a valuable educational resource for anyone interested in science, geology, or the natural world, and is a must-watch for anyone who wants to understand more about our planet's past, present, and future.

Earth: Power of the Planet
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Seasons
Rare Earth
5. Rare Earth
December 18, 2007
Our planet is unique within the solar system. Four-and-a-half billion years ago it had a 'twin' named Theia which was absorbed into the Earth, increasing its gravity and allowing it to form an atmosphere. Iain travels to Meteor Crater in Arizona to explore the atmosphere's role in protecting us from bombardment by meteorites, and finds that life on earth only prospers because it is provided with right amount of heat from the sun.
Oceans
4. Oceans
December 11, 2007
The oceans cover 3/4 of earth's surface and make it viable. Their brute, eroding, tidal (lunar/solar gravity-powered) surf-force helps physically shape the planet, especially the coast, and powers currents, which are vital for climate in interaction with winds. The oceans' own shape is determined by the tectonic drift of the continents. Their micro-organisms, phytoplankton, are crucial in starting the food-cycle of life trough photo-synthesis and generation of oxygen.
Ice
3. Ice
December 4, 2007
After explaining how snow, crystallized frozen water, turns into ice, we examine it's major role in shaping the earth's surface. Glaciers exert enormous forces, capable of extreme erosion, and often faster then it appears. The polar caps are entirely ice-covered, even permanently hiding Antarctica's island archipelago and world top 10-lake. Climate change is largely about ice advance or retreat, which also vastly contributes to currents modification.
Atmosphere
2. Atmosphere
November 27, 2007
Iain explains the geological paradoxes how our green planet's atmosphere is both destructive and protective, mighty and vulnerable, vital to life's metabolism and altered by it. Its many layers have different functions, notably in climatic processes. Its alteration is crucial to climatic change, both natural cyclical and the man-caused greenhouse effect. As winds, ultimately powered by solar energy, deified in various cultures, it shapes matter trough erosion and moves lots of it, especially rains and dust. It also allows air travel.
Volcano
1. Volcano
November 20, 2007
Although they are destructive, volcanoes were crucial to the development of life on our planet. Iain's journey takes him to Ethiopia to discover lava lakes, to Iceland to scuba dive between continents, and to New Zealand to sample hot springs. But it's not just a holiday for Dr Stewart: he has a serious point to make.
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  • Premiere Date
    November 20, 2007