Systems and Feedback Loops
The Big Picture• The study of Earth has been divided in to tiny pieces.
Makes it easier to better understand
that piece!
• It’s important to remember that we have to not just understand how the parts work but also how they interact and connect.
Defining a System• To simplify our studies of such a complex place such as
Earth, scientists use the concept of a system.• A system is a portion of the universe that can be separated for
the purpose of observing changes that happen in it.
• By defining a system, we get a sense of how the system works internally and how it interacts with its surroundings.
System
Types of Systems• Scientists categorized systems as Open or Closed based
whether or not matter or energy can enter or leave the system.
Energy Open!Matter Open!
Energy Closed!Matter Closed!
Energy Open!Matter Closed!
Why is this important in APES?• The balance of energy in
an open system is important when predicting global warming and its associated climate change.
• Things to remember when dealing with a closed matter system:• There is a finite amount of resources.• Our system provides us with our resources and
accepts our wastes.• All parts of the systems are connected.
System Analysis• When you analyze a system, you must know its inputs,
outputs, and changes.
Inputs Outputs
Inputs Outputs
WaterFood
OxygenSunlight
ManureMethane
WaterCO2
WaterSunlightNutrients
CO2
OxygenSugarWater
Steady State• When you conduct a system analysis, one of the goals is to
determine whether or not you are in a steady state situation.
Rate of Inputs = Rate of Outputs
• Monitoring the inputs and outputs of a system can indicate if there is a deviation from steady state.• Example is our growing concern
that water balance in the ocean and atmosphere will be affected by global climate change.
Feedback Systems• When the output acts as an input to the system, you have
what is known as a feedback loop.
Negative Feedback - System changes to minimize change and bring things back to steady state.
Positive Feedback - System changes to enhance the change.
Positive Amplifies Negative Resists
Which Is It?
Negative Feedback Positive Feedback
Let’s Vote!
Feedback Loop 1Positive Negative
Feedback Loop 2
Feedback Loop 3
Feedback Loop 4
Feedback Loop 5
Feedback Loop 6