Systems Approach Flashcards
What is a systems approach
A set of interrelated components working together towards some kind of process
What is a flow/transfer
When matter or energy moves from one store to another
What is an input
When matter or energy is added to the system
What is an output
When matter or energy leaves the system
What is a store/component
Where matter or energy builds up
What is matter
Any physical substance involved in a system
What is an open system
Energy and matter can be transferred into the surrounding environment
What is a closed system
Energy is transferred into and beyond the system but matter is not
What is an isolated system
No interactions with anything outside the system
What system is a drainage basin
An open system as energy from the sun enters and leaves the system
What system is the carbon cycle
A closed system as the amount of carbon doesn’t change
What is dynamic equilibrium
Inputs and outputs are in balance
What is positive feedback
The effects of something are amplified
What is negative feedback
The effects of something are nullified
What is a cascading system
Energy and matter is passed along a chain from one to another
