3.1.1.1 Natural Systems Flashcards
What are the main elements of any natural system?
Inputs Outputs Flows Stores Energy and matter
What is an open system?
When both energy and matter can be transferred from the system, across the boundary, into the aurrounding environment
What is a closed system?
Energy can transfer in and out of the system but matter can’t
Define positive feedback
Where effects of an action are amplified or multiplied by subsequent knock on effects
Define negative feedback
Where the effects of an action are nullified by its subsequent knock on effects
What is meant by a state of dynamic equilibrium?
When there is a balance betweet outputs and inputs so stores stay the same within a constantly changing system
What are the advantages of using a systems approach in the study or water and carbon cycles?
A simplification of reality
Easy to understand the relationships between components
We can see how energy is transferred and how components change
Helps understand and predict possible consequences of change by natural or human factors
Why is the Earth seen as a closed system?
Energy is an input to the Sun, output to space
Matter is not an input or output to space
What are the subsystems that make up the Earth system?
Cryosphere Hydrosphere Biosphere Lithosphere Atmosphere
