Water & Carbon - Feedback in the water & carbon cycles Flashcards
What is dynamic equilibrium?
A state of balance between inputs and outputs in a system that is constantly changing (e.g. the carbon cycle).
What is a negative feedback loop?
The movement back towards dynamic equilibrium – dampening down of change.
What is a positive feedback loop?
The movement further away from dynamic equilibrium – an amplification or intensification of change, e.g. human impact on the carbon cycle
What is a ‘tipping point’?
If atmospheric carbon dioxide passes a certain level, a positive feedback cycle will be triggered and further increases of atmospheric carbon are virtually inevitable
How is permafrost melting a positive feedback cycle?
Rising temperatures cause permafrost to thaw, releasing stored carbon in the form of CO2 and methane into the atmosphere. These greenhouse gases contribute to further warming and more permafrost thawing.
How is ocean warming a posiitve feedback cycle?
Warmer oceans are less able to dissolve CO2 in seawater, leading to more CO2 being released into the atmosphere, enhancing the greenhouse effect, causing further warming.
How is increased photosynthesis a negative feedback cycle?
Higher CO2 levels can stimulate plant growth, leading to more CO2 being absorbed from the atmosphere through photosynthesis. This process helps to reduce atmospheric CO2 levels and mitigate warming
How is ocean carbon uptake a negative feedback cycle?
As atmospheric CO2 levels rise; the oceans can absorb more CO2. This process helps to remove CO2 from the atmosphere, although it can also lead to ocean acidification.
What are some links between the water and carbon cycle?
- Photosynthesis & Respiration
- Ocean-atmosphere exchange
- Weathering & Erosion
- Soil carbon storage
How does photosynthesis and respiration link the water and carbon cycle?
Plants use water and CO2 during photosynthesis to produce oxygen and glucose. During respiration, plants and animals release CO2 and water back into the atmosphere. This process is a key component of both the water and carbon cycles.
How does ocean-atmospheric exchange link the water and carbon cycle?
The oceans play a crucial role in both cycles by absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere and releasing it back through processes like diffusion and upwelling. Water movement in the oceans helps transport carbon, affecting global carbon distribution.
How does weathering and erosion link the water and carbon cycle?
Water contributes to the weathering of rocks, which releases carbon stored in minerals into rivers and eventually the oceans. This process is part of the slow carbon cycle and helps regulate atmospheric CO2 levels.
How does soil carbon storage link the water and carbon cycle?
Water availability affects soil moisture, which influences the decomposition of organic matter and the release or storage of carbon in soils. Wet conditions can slow decomposition, leading to carbon storage, while dry conditions can accelerate it.
