Systems Flashcards
(14 cards)
Define Input
Any material or energy moving into the system from the outside
Define Output
Any material or energy moving out of the system from the inside
Define Energy
A power (or driving force) in a system
Define Stores/Components
The individual elements of a system
Define Flows/Transfers
The links between the stores/components of a system
Define Positive Feedback
A cycle of events that amplifies change. Positive loops exacerbate outputs, driving a single direction and therefore instability
Define Negative Feedback
A cycle of events that contracts change. Negative loops stabilise and equalise a system.
Define Dynamic Equilibrium
A state of balance within a constantly changing system.
Example of an Input
Water Cycles: precipitation
Carbon Cycles: fossil fuel burning
Example of an Output
Water Cycles: percolation
Carbon Cycles: sequestration
Example of Energy
Water Cycles: latent heat associated with a changing state of water
Carbon Cycles: production of glucose through photosynthesis
Example of a Store/Component
Water Cycles: groundwater
Carbon Cycles: trees
Example of a Flow/Transfer
Water Cycles: evaporation
Carbon Cycles: absorption
Example of a Positive Feedback Loop
Rising sea levels due to
