water cycle system framework Flashcards
what is a system?
a set of interrelated components that work together towards some kid of process
what are systems a series of?
stores, components and flows
what are the three types of properties of s system?
elements
attributes
relationships
what are elements?
things that make up the system
what are attributes?
perceived characteristics of the elements
what are relationships?
descriptions of how elements work together towards some kind of process
what are common characteristics of a system?
- structure lies within a boundary
- function by having inputs and outputs
- involve a flow of material between components
what are the ways systems can be classified?
open
closed
isolated
what is an open system?
where matter and energy can be transferred from the system across the boundary into the surrounding environment
what is a closed system?
have transfer of energy to the surrounding environment but not a transfer of matter
what is an isolated system?
no interaction with anything outside the system boundary, no input or output of energy or matter
very rare in nature
when is a system in a state of dynamic equilibrium?
when there is a balance between inputs and outputs
stores stay the same
how is equilibrium upset
if one element of the system changes, if input changes without corresponding change from output
what are the two types of feedback?
positive and negative
what is positive feedback?
where the effects of an action are amplified by secondary effects
