Geographical systems Flashcards
Why are models useful to geographers?
-very visual
-simplify a complex world
-helps to predict +describe possible sequence
-shows inter-related components
What is positive feedback
changes further effect and accelerate the original change, change away from equilibrium
What is negative feedback
system lessens the effect of the original change, reversing it, holds system at or near equilibrium
Give an example of positive feedback (water)
1-temps warm
2-sea ice melts+shrinks
3-dark ocean waters absorb more solar radiation
4-temps warm further
5-sea ice melts more
6-temps warm further still
What is a system?
any set of interrelated components to form a working unit
often exchange energy/mater beyond defined boundary with other systems
What is an open system?
receives inputs and transfers of energy and matter across boundaries
Examples of open systems
mostly natural systems, water+carbon
What is a closed system
transfer of energy but not matter between system and its surrounding
Name different geographical systems
hydrological cycle(water)
Carbon cycle
Ecosystems
Ocean circulation
Lithosphere(rock)
Atmospheric circulation
Biosphere (living)
What is an ecosystem
area of land that has similar characteristics(plants, animals) across it
Give an example of negative feedback (water)
-surface temp increases slightly
-Increased evaporation from oceans
-more low clouds in the atmosphere
-increase earths albedo
-surface temp decreases slightly
-decreased evaporation from oceans
-less low clouds in atmosphere
-decrease earths albedo
What are some outputs in an ecosystem
plants, evaporation, seed dispersal
What are some inputs in an ecosystem
precipitation, autumn leaf fall, seeds carried by wind+birds
What are some stores/components in an ecosystem
water, soil, water soaking through the soil
What are some flows/transfers in an ecosystem
-photosynthesis
-infiltration
-transpiration
