Water and carbon systems and their framework Flashcards
(12 cards)
What is a flow/transfer?
A flow/transfer is a form of linkage between one store/component and another that involves movement of energy or mass.
What is the definition of an input?
An input is the addition of matter and/or energy into a system
What is the definition of an output?
An output is the results of the processes within a system
What is a store/component?
This is a part of the system where energy/ mass is stored or transformed
What is a system?
A system is a set of interrelated components working together towards some kind of process
What is an isolated system?
Isolated systems have no interactions with anything outside the system boundary. There is no input or output of energy or matter. Many controlled laboratory experiments are this type of system and they are very rare in nature
What are closed systems?
Closed systems have transfers of energy both into and beyond the system boundary but not transfers of matter
What are open systems?
These are where matter and energy can be transferred from the system across the boundary into the surrounding environment.
-Most ecosystems are examples of open systems
What is dynamic equilibrium?
Dynamic equilibrium occurs when there is a balance between the inputs and outputs within a system. This means that the stores stay the same.
What is positive feedback?
Positive feedback is where the effects of an action are amplified or multiplied by subsequent knock on or secondary effects.
What is negative feedback?
Negative feedback is where the effects of an action are nullified by its subsequent knock on effects.
What are earths 4 major subsystems?
-The atmosphere
-The lithosphere
-The hydrosphere
-The biosphere
