Topic 1: systems and models Flashcards
System
An assemblage of parts that are working together which in turn form a functioning whole
Gaia Model
View of the whole planet as a whole living organism.
Open system
Exchanges matter and energy with its surroundings
Closed system
Exchanges energy but not matter with the environment.
Isolated system
Exchanges neither matter nor energy
First law of thermodynamics
Energy cannot be created nor destroyed
Entropy
Amount of thermal energy not available for work
Second law of thermodynamics
The entropy of an isolated system not in equilibrium will tend to increase over time
Equilibrium
The tendency of a system to return to its original state after a disturbance. Steady-state and static equilibrium exists.
Positive feedback
Results in increase or decrease in the output and results in the system becoming more unstable, moving to a new equilibrium
Negative feedback
Neutralizes any movement to a new equilibrium
Transfer
Movement of material in living organisms/ non-living things/ energy. Flows through a system.
Storage
Energy and matter can be stored within an ecosystem
Transformation
Interaction within a system and formation of a new end product or change in state
Models
Simplified description to show the structure and workings of an object, system, or concept. Help in predictions but are not accurate.
