coastal systems: systems in physical geog Flashcards
what’s a system?
assemblage of interrelated parts that work together by a driving force.
why is the coast considered as an open system?
because it receives inputs from outside the system and transfers outputs away from the coast and into the other systems.
what’s the definition of an open system?
a system where both energy and mass are transferred across boundaries. there is also a flow of matter.
what’s the definition of a closed system?
flow of energy in or out of the system but no matter flow. the system has a fixed mass.
what’s the definition of an isolated system?
where there’s not interaction between the system and surrounding. they’re mostly theoretical.
what’s a sediment cell
sediment cell is section of the coast that os divided into sections, these are sediment cells. they’re boarded by prominent headlands. this means that the movement of sediment is almost contained, and therefore the flows of sediment act in dynamic equilibrium.
how many sediment cells in England and Wales?
11
what is dynamic equilibrium?
dynamic equilibrium refers too the maintenance of a balance in a natural system, despite it being in a constant state of change. the system has the ability to counteract any changes, due to the inputs and outputs constantly changing to maintain the balance.
dynamic equilibrium in sediment cells.
input and output of sediment are in constant state of change but remain in balance.
what is within each sediment cell?
sub cell
how will dynamic equilibrium be upset?
long term- human interventions
short term- natural variations.
what are inputs?
where matter/energy is added into a system.
what are the three main areas of inputs?
marine; waves, tides, salt spray
atmosphere; sun,air pressure, wind speed and direction.
humans; pollution, recreation, settlement, defences.
what are outputs?
where matter or energy leaves the system.
what are some examples of outputs?
ocean currents
rip tides
sediment transfer
evaporation
