1.3 Energy and Equilibria Flashcards
Positive Feedback Loop
a process in which the end product of an action causes more of that action to occur in a feedback loop, leading to an amplification of the original effect
Examples of Positive Feedback
- stampeding cattle
- eutrophication
- avalanche
- deforestation –> fewer trees
Negative Feedback Loop
a process in which an outcome acts to reduce or dampen the effects of the initial stimulus, leading to stabilization or regulation of the original effect.
Examples of Negative Feedback
- Predator/Prey relationship
- Cloud formation regulates temperature
- Carbon dioxide absorption reduces global warming
Static Equilibrium
a stable state of an ecosystem where species composition and population sizes remain relatively constant over time, with only minor fluctuations due to natural processes.
Compare with “stable equilibrium” and “steady state equilibrium” which are different
Stable Equilibrium
refers to a condition where an ecosystem, after a disturbance, tends to return to its original state due to the inherent resilience and interactions among its components
Associated with negative feedback
Unstable Equilibrium
a state in which a small disturbance or change can lead to a significant shift or departure from the original state, leading to a new equilibrium
Associated with positive feedback
Steady State Equilibrium
a dynamic balance where the input and output of energy and matter in an ecosystem are equal, allowing the system to maintain its structure and functions over time despite ongoing processes and disturbances.
Compare with “stable equilibrium” and “static equilibrium” which are different.
Tipping Point
A threshold where a system shifts to a new equilibrium, often irreversibly.
It is no longer resilient to change and cannot return to a stable equilibrium.
Usually reached through positive feedback (amplifying) processes.
Resilience
The ability of a system to (withstand change and) return to equilibrium after disturbance.
