W&C. 4 Markers. A Level

Question 1

Outline the relationship between the water cycle and the carbon cycle in the atmosphere. (2021)

Answer 1

Atmosphere is a major store of carbon and water.

Close links of carbon and water cycle in the atmosphere can be shown by the increased concentrations of carbon in the atmosphere leading to the warming effect and enhanced greenhouse gas effect leading to increased evaporation, which is a process in the water cycle. This can increase rates of precipitation as more water is evaporated or equally can lead to the higher aridity.

Acid rain can be considered an outcome of the relationship between cycles, as the atmosphere has CO2 that combines with water vapor to produce a weak carbonic acid, which than leads to formation of acid rain.

Question 2

Explain the role of cryospheric change in the water cycle (2018)

Answer 2

The cryosphere is a major store of water, accounting for 69% of all freshwaters on earth. During glacial period, the cryosphere will grow in size because of the process of accumulation. The water cycle will become slowed down, as water will be locked in the solid form in ice caps and glaciers and ice will restrict the return of the water to the sea and ocean.

In a period of warming due to the process of ablation, water will be added to the cycle of circulation. As the water previously locked in ice will melt returning water to the ocean and seas, making more water being available for evaporation, condensation and further precipitation.

Question 3

Explain the concept of negative feedback within the carbon cycle (2021)

Answer 3

Therefore negative feedback loops help to bring the system back to the state of dynamic equilibrium. An example of this is increased co2 concentration leading to higher average temperatures and higher amount of CO2 available for plants. Thus photosynthesis is performed more actively within the cycle capturing and sequestering CO2 in plants (biosphere). This reduces the excess amount of CO2 stored in the atmosphere, bringing the system closer to the state of dynamic equilibrium.

Question 4

Outline flows within the water cycle operating on a hill slope (2019)

Answer 4

Surface runoff occurs when water runs directly over the ground. This may occur of the soil is saturated (or flow over impermeable surfaces).

Infiltration occurs when the water moves from the surface and then down through the soil horizons, until it reaches the groundwater or an impermeable layer in the soil.

Groundwater flow is the movement of water through permeable rock under the force of gravity.

Question 5

Outline the process of decomposition in the carbon cycle (2020)

Answer 5

Decomposition refers to the breakdown/decay of organic matter by bacteria or fungi. During decomposition carbon dioxide is released. Most of the carbon is released into the atmosphere. Decomposition is heavily dependent on temperature and availability of water. Warmer temperatures are characterized by much higher rates of decomposition as there is more microbial activity.

Question 6

Explain the concept of dynamic equilibrium in relation to the water cycle. (Specimen)

Answer 6

Dynamic equilibrium refers to the tendency towards a natural state of balance within the hydrological cycle. The cycle is a closed system as no water enters or leaves the system, it is simply recycled around the system. The dynamic equilibrium is easily upset by extreme events, such as storms or droughts Human activity can also cause disruptions to the dynamic equilibrium, eg by modifying the drainage basin.