theories

Question 1

What is a system?

Answer 1

group of interrelated aspects. Most share the same common characteristics.

Question 2

What are the 4 main characteristics of systems?

Answer 2

Inputs and outputs,
Flows and transfers
Stores and components
Boundaries.

Question 3

What is the input into the water cycle?

Answer 3

Precipitation.

Question 4

What are the 3 types in the systems theory?

Answer 4

OPEN system (Mass and energy can pass through)

CLOSED system (Only mass can pass through

ISOLATED (neither mass nor energy can pass through.

Question 5

What is the difference between a positive and negative system?

Answer 5

POSITIVE - AMPLIFIES the effect of the system.

NEGATIVE - NULLIFIES the effect of the system.

Question 6

Give an example of a positive system in the water cycle.

Answer 6

Temperature rises.
Increased evaporation rates
Amount of water vapour in atmosphere increases
Green house effect amplified.

Question 7

Give an example of a positive feedback in the carbon cycle.

Answer 7

Higher temperatures in the Arctic = melted permafrost.

When it melts - organic matter decomposes.

Oxygen introduced - bacteria involved in decomposition produce CO2 and CH4 (methane)

CO2 and CH4 enter into atmosphere, global temps rise.

Question 8

Give an example of a negative feedback system in the carbon cycle.

Answer 8

High temps increase growing season for some plants
increased CO2 sequestered from the atmosphere.

Question 9

Give ANOTHER example of a positive feedback system in the carbon cycle.

Answer 9

Phytoplankton = Live and photosynthesise in water. Important store of carbon.

Marine phytoplankton release dimethyl sulphide (DMS)

DMS can promote cloud formation over oceans.

Phytoplankton increase in warmer temps and sunshine.

More cloud cover and subsequent cooling effect - more cloud cover reflects SOLAR RADIATION back into space.

Question 10

Define dynamic equilibrium

Answer 10

A balance between inputs and outputs within a system.