Systems Flashcards
What is dynamic equilibrium?
A state of balance in a constantly changing natural system, the operation of which attempts to balance inputs with outputs.
Define positive feedback
A cyclical sequence that increases or amplifies an initial change in a natural system
Define the Zone of Aeration, and the Zone of Saturation. What sits between them?
Zone of Aeration - gaps in soil filled wiht both air and water
Zone of saturation - gaps in soil filled with water Water table sits between them
Explain GAC, where each cell lies, and winds at each cell.
0-30 deg - Hadley, low pressure at equator, air rises, trade winds from 30-0
30-60 deg - Ferrel, high pressure at 30 deg, air sinks. Trade winds from 30-60
60-90 deg - Polar, low pressure at 60 deg, air rises. Trade winds from 90-60. 90 deg, high pressure
Name the two jet steams, and where they are formed.
Subtropical jet stream - at 30 deg
Polar jet stream - at 60 deg
State some examples of positive feedback
Thawing permafrost = increased carbon in atmosphere = increase in temp = increased permafrost thaw
State the 5 Subsystems of Earth, with examples of where water is in each
Hydrosphere - oceans and rivers
Cryosphere - glaciers, sea ice
Lithosphere - aquifers, hot springs
Biosphere - plants, animals
Atmosphere - clouds, water vapour
What are boundaries in systems, giving examples?
Outer edges of systems, zone between one and another system.
What are relationships in systems? Give examples
Associations occuring between elements and attributes, based on cause or effect.(size of raindrops, quantity of plants)
What is a closed system?
Transfers energy beyond system but not matter
What is a subsystem? Give some examples
A component of a larger system. Cryosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere etc.
What is an attribute of a system, giving examples?
characteristics of elements that can be perceived and measured. (size, colour, temperature)
What is an element, including examples? (systems)
Parts that make up a system. (sand grains, plants, animals)
What is an isolated system, giving example?
System that has no interactions beyond its boundary. (laboratory experiment)
What is an open system?
Transfers matter and energy beyond system
What is dynamic equilibrium?
A state of balance in a constantly changing natural system, the operation of which attempts to balance inputs with outputs.
