Changes in the water and carbon cycle Flashcards
1
Q
What is meant by a positive feedback loop?
A
- Self Enhancing
- Cause further change
2
Q
What is meant by a negative feedback loop?
A
- Self limiting
- Lessens the effect of original
- Reverses original change
3
Q
What is meant by dynamic equilibrium?
A
Balance state where there is equal and continuous inputs, throughputs and outputs
4
Q
What effects do urbanisation have on the water cycle?
A
- Little to no infiltration
- Removes water storage rapidly
- Reduces water storage capacity in floodplains
5
Q
What effects does farming have on the water cycle
A
- Irrigation disrupts surface water
- Interception is less
- less evaporation
- Soil moisture loss
- Surface runoff increased
6
Q
What effects does forestry have on the water cycle?
A
- Higher rates of rainfall interception
- Increased evaporation
- Reduced runoff and river discharge
7
Q
What effects does urbanisation have on the carbon cycle?
A
- Reduced above ground carbon store (less/no vegetation = less/no photosynthesis and respiration)
- Increased atmospheric store of carbon (combustion and cement releases CO2 into atmosphere)
