Feedback mechanisms

Question 1

What is the POSITIVE FEEDBACK?

Answer 1

It amplifies a particular effect or change from previous conditions. Making things move away from equilibrium.

An increase in something leads to an increase in another thing, which leads to an increase in the first thing.

Increase of something over time.

Question 2

What is NEGATIVE FEEDBACK?

Answer 2

A mechanism that diminished or counteracts changes in an ecosystem to maintain a more stable balance.

If something increases then another thing decreases, which makes the first thing decrease.

Promotes stability

Eg. food webs.

Question 3

Negative vs Positive Feedback in Equilibrium

Answer 3

Positive: moves away from equilibrium. Exponential deviation from an equilibrium.
Negative: moves towards equilibrium.