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Models
The simplification of complex things to allow comparison and predictions.
Systems
A system is an assemblage of interrelated parts that work together by way of some driving force.
Elements
Things that make up a system
Store/component
A part of the system where something is held for a period of time.
Flow/transfer
A link between once store or component to another, along which something moves.
Inputs
A point where something is added to the system
Outputs
A point where something is removed from the system
Attributes
The characteristics of the element.
E.g. hot/cold
System boundaries
The edge of the system; the interface (or line) between one system and another
Relationships
Descriptions of how the various elements work together to carry out some sort of process
Open system
Something that has inputs and outputs
Dynamic Equilibrium
When the inputs and outputs are equal, the water will pass through the system and the amounts of water in the stores will remain the same.
negative feedback
Where the effects of an action are nullified by its subsequent knock on effects
What are the 4 different spheres?
Atmosphere
Hydrosphere
Biosphere
Lithosphere
What is the atmosphere?
Contains all the gases that surround out planet.
What is the hydrosphere?
All the water on the planet
What is the biosphere?
All the living things - where life exists
What is the lithosphere?
All the solid rock - is the solid outer part of Earth
Evaporation
Liquid water becomes water vapour
Condensation
Water vapour becomes liquid water
Freezing
Liquid water becomes ice - solid
Melting
Ice becomes liquid water
Fusion
When a solid becomes a liquid and vice versa
Vaporisation
When a liquid becomes a gas and vice versa
Sublimation
When a solid becomes a gas (goes straight past liquid) or vice versa
What is an endothermic reaction?
The taking in of energy - freezing - evaporation
What is an exothermic reaction?
The release, giving out of energy - hot - condensation
Drainage basin
The area of land surrounding a river, from which the river received water and subsequently drains this water
Source
Where the river starts - the highest point
Confluence
Where two rivers meet
Floodplain
Flat areas surrounding a river that floods when the river becomes full
Mouth
Where the river meets a sea/lake
Tributary
Minor river joining the main river
Watershed
Boundary between two drainage basins
Precipitation
Rain, snow, hail and sleet
Infiltration
When water enters into soil
Interception
When water is caught by trees and plants
Note 
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