A level sample

Question 1

Explain the concept of dynamic equilibrium in relation to the water cycle. (4 marks)

Answer 1

• Dynamic equilibrium is a balance between inputs and outputs
• Cycle is a closed system as no water enters or leaves the system
• Drainage basin of the water cycle is an open system where inputs/outputs change
• Dynamic equilibrium is upset by storms

Question 2

Using Figure 2 and your own knowledge, assess the natural and human induced causes of the 2005 flood in Carlisle. (6 marks)

Answer 2

AO1:
* Human causes (e.g. deforestation)
* Physical causes (e.g. intensity of precipitation)

AO2:
Physical:
* Prolonged heavy rainfall, impact of antecedent rainfall
* Led to full storage os groundwater in soil
* Reduce infiltration and increase surface run-off, short lag time and more floods
* Drainage basin is on mountain and tributaries steep
* Increase speed of water to river and reduce lag time causing flashy hydrograph

Human:
* Deforestation due to urban development means less interception and more surface run-off
* Farming increase risk of flooding, surface impermeable
* Ploughing breaks top soil, more infiltration

Question 2

Using Figure 1, analyse projected rainfall change in Africa. (6 marks)

Answer 2

• P - From May to Sep, rainfall in lower than 1986-2005 average by 4 mm in Aug
• E - Feb, March, May, Sep little change
• D - Reduction from 67 to 63 mm
• A - Rainfall falls in south-west Nigeria (25 mm less rainfall)
• L - Africa: an increase in rainfall for most months

Question 3

Assess the extent to which there are inter-relationships between processes in the water cycle and factors driving change in the carbon cycle. (20 marks)

Para 1

Answer 3

*

Question 3

Assess the extent to which there are inter-relationships between processes in the water cycle and factors driving change in the carbon cycle. (20 marks)

AO1

Answer 3

• Water cycle only: evaporation and condensation
• Carbon + water cycle: transpiration
• Carbon cycle: Factors affecting stores over time and space

Question 4

Explain the concept of the sediment cell. (4 marks)

Answer 4

• Sediment cell is a closed system bounded by headlands
• In the cell, erosion, transport and deposition of sediment
• Inputs into sediment are erosion from land
• Little movement of sediment between cells

Question 5

Using Figure 7 and your own knowledge, assess the role of mass movement upon the development of this area of the Holderness coastal landscape. (6 marks)

Answer 5

AO1:
* Mass movement: sliding and slumping