Natural Systems

• Flows :


  matter / energy moving between stores
• Inputs :


  matter / energy added to system
• Output :


  matter / energy leaves system
• Stores :


  where matter / energy builds up
• Boundaries :


  systems limits
• Open system :


  energy & matter can enter and leave (drainage basins)
• Closed system :


  matter can't enter or leave but energy can (carbon cycle)
• balanced inputs & outputs = system is at equilibrium
• all systems have small variations but remain balanced at average dynamic equilibrium
• large long term changes to balance = system changes = new dynamic equilibrium
• -ve feedback system :

  mechanisms counteract changes in inputs/outputs = system responds by decreasing effects of change = closer to previous state
• +ve feedback system :

  mechanisms amplify changes = system increases effects = further from previous state
• earth is a closed system , its interlinked by cycles that keeps it running and is cascading - changes in 1 subsystem affect others
• 1)Cryosphere ❄️


  all parts of system where its cold enough to freeze
• 2)Lithosphere ⛰️


  outermost part of earth ( crust & upper parts of mantle )
• 3)Biosphere��


  part where all living things are found (plants animals fungi)
• 4)Hydrosphere��


  all water on earth

  forms :

  1. liquid
  2. solid (cryo)
  3. gas
• 5)Atmosphere


  layer of gas between surface and space , held in place by gravity