chapter 2 Flashcards
energy and cycles
What are the two main energy sources that drive earth’s dynamic processes?
The Sun
The earth’s internal heat energy
What are external processes and internal processes? Examples?
external- solar energy causes processes on the surface- weather/climate
internal- Erath’s enternal heat driven- plate tectonics
What is an open system?
A system in which energy and/or matter move in and out.
What is a closed system?
A system with no exchange of matter, but can change energy.
In terms of both energy and matter, is earth considered an open or closed system?
energy - open
matter - closed
What are system inputs
processes that Add mass or energy to a system
What are system outputs
process that mass or energy leaves a system.
What are system responses
the result products of inputs and outputs.
What are system variables
affect the rates of inputs and outputs.
What is albedo?
a measure of how much energy is reflected or absorbed.
dark colored things=low albedo
light colored things=high albedo
What is a positive feedback loop?
-Two codependent variables amplify each other creating a runaway effect.
-The formation of a hurricane.
What is a negative feedback loop?
-Two codependent variables dampen each other so that they both become stable.
-clouds and air temperature.
