Physical Factors Impacting Both Cycles In The Alaskan Tundra

Question 1

Water cycle: permeability

Most common rock types in alaskan tundra?

Answer 1

Low due to permafrost.

Precambrian igneous and metamorphic rock

Question 2

Water cycle: temperature

Answer 2

During the summer, the shallow active layer thaws and liquid water flows onto the surface. Drainage is poor because water cannot infiltrate the permafrost below it. Some evapotranspiration in summer

No evapotranspiration in winter due to sub zero temperatures

Question 3

Water cycle: relief

Answer 3

Minimal due to millions of years of erosion and weathering the ancient rock surface.

Minimal relief impedes drainage and contributes to waterlogging in the summer

Question 4

Carbon cycle: temperature

Answer 4

Low temp and lack of liquid water limits plant growth. Photosynthesis and NPP are low.

Long hours of daylight in the summer

Slows decomp., respiration and flow of CO2 in atmosphere

Question 5

Carbon/water cycle: rock permeability

Answer 5

Impermeable permafrost so rock permability, porosity and mineral composition of rocks exert little influence on water cycle or carbon cycle.