Systems

Question 1

Input

Answer 1

Material or energy moving into a system from outside

Question 2

Output

Answer 2

Material or energy moving from the system from the outside

Question 3

Stores

Answer 3

The individual elements or part of a system
-Water cycle: cryosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere
-Carbon store: atmosphere, biosphere

Question 4

Flows or fluxes

Answer 4

-Processes that move matter between pools

Question 5

Dynamic equilibrium

Answer 5

-A state of balance within a system, where the inputs and outputs are relatively equal
-Very delicate and subject to change due to anthropogenic activity
-Very few left now
-However, some systems are incorporating human activity to regain this state.

Question 6

Positive feedback loop

Answer 6

A feedback loop in which change in a system is amplified often promoting environmental instability.

Question 7

Negative feedback loop

Answer 7

A cyclical sequence of events that dampens or neutralises the outputs promoting environmental stability.

Question 8

Open system

Answer 8

A system in which matter can enter from or escape to the surroundings

Question 9

Closed system

Answer 9

A system which has a finite amount of energy and or material