How is the surface of the earth, including all attached natural features, defined?

The term "land" encompasses the surface of the Earth and all natural features connected to it. This definition includes not just the solid earth but also things like fields, forests, mountains, rivers, and lakes. In a military context, understanding land is crucial, as it can influence maneuverability, strategy, and tactics.

Unlike other terms, "property" refers to ownership and legal rights associated with specific land areas, which may not encompass all features. "Terrain" typically refers to the physical characteristics of the land that can affect military operations, such as elevation and obstacles, but it does not include a broader definition. The term "geosphere" is more scientifically oriented, referring to the Earth's entire physical body and layers, including the crust, mantle, and core, rather than specifically to the surface and attached features. Thus, "land" is the most appropriate choice to define the surface of the Earth with its natural attributes.