Natural Systems Flashcards
(8 cards)
Name and describe factors of systems (6 points)
Inputs- matter or energy is added to the system
Outputs- matter or energy leaves the system
Stores- matter or energy is stored/builds up
Flows- matter or energy moves between stores
Boundaries- limits of the system
To remember think: IOS FaceBook
Describe an open system and give an example
Energy and matter can enter and leave the system
E.g. Drainage Basin as matter enters via precipitation and leaves via channel flow
Describe a closed system and give an example
Matter can’t leave the system but energy can enter and leave
E.g. The carbon cycle as the volume of carbon on earth remains the same.
Describe equilibrium and dynamic equilibrium
Equilibrium is when a systems inputs and outputs are completely balanced.
Dynamic equilibrium is when there are small variations between inputs and outputs but they are balanced overall.
Large, long term changes to inputs and outputs can establish a new dynamic equilibrium.
Describe positive feedback
The original change to the inputs and outputs is amplified/exacerbated.
The system increases the effect of the change and changes from its previous state.
Describe negative feedback
The original change to inputs and outputs is counteracted/nullified.
The system decreases the effect of the change so the system moves back to its previous state.
What type of system is the earth?
Closed system as matter can’t enter or leave but energy can.
Name and describe the Earths subsystems (5 points) What type of system do they form?
Cryosphere- all parts of Earths system involving ice
Lithosphere- outermost part of Earth involving upper mantle and crust. All of earths rock.
Biosphere- all parts of Earths system involving living organisms
Hydrosphere- all water on Earth in liquid, solid and gaseous form, salty or fresh
Atmosphere- the layer of gas between the Earths surface and outer space
These subsystems are interlinked as energy and matter flow between them forming a CASCADING SYSTEM.
