Systems Flashcards
What are inputs in a system?
Where matter or energy is added to the system
What are outputs in a system?
Where matter or energy leaves the system
What are stores in a system?
Where matter or energy builds up in a system
What are flows in a system?
Where matter or energy moves in a system
What are boundaries in a system?
Limits to the system (e.g. watershed)
What are open systems?
Receive inputs and transfer outputs with other systems
What are closed systems?
When energy inputs equals energy outputs
What is dynamic equilibrium?
When inputs equal outputs despite changing conditions
What is positive feedback?
When a chain of events amplifies the impacts of the original event. E.g. ice building in glaciers
What is negative feedback?
When a chain of events nullifies the impacts of the original event. E.g. increased melting of glaciers
On a local scale, what type of system is the water cycle?
Open
On a local scale, what type of system is the carbon cycle?
Open
On a global scale, what type of system is the water cycle?
Closed
On a global scale, what type of system is the carbon cycle?
Closed
