topic 1.2 Flashcards
what are models
simplified version of reality
uses of model
- make prediction
- transfer understandings
- understand things
- recognising patterns in world
- test process and outcomes after conditions
- communicate ideas
limitations of models
- assumptions could be incorrect
- could lead to wrong conclusions
- may be inaccurate
what are systems?
any set of interacting or interdependent parts organized to create a functional whole
system boundary
a line that separates the system studied from external environment that is not a part of the system
what are open systems?
systems that exchanges both matter and energy
what are closed systems
systems that exchanges energy but not matter
what is the gaia hypothesis?
earth is an interconnected and interdependent entity
what is transfer
a change in location of energy or matter without any change
what is transformation
a process with moving energy anf matter but a change in chemical nature, state, or energy
what is negative feedback
when output of a storage returns as input in a way to revers operation of same process
example of negative feedback
body temperature
what is positive feedback
when output of storage returns as input that amplifies change
what is tipping points
the minimum amount of change that can cause destabilization within a system
