Lecture 1: Environmental Systems

System

A collection of components that have a relationship (linkage) between each other.

Linkage

Any relationship between the components of a system which can be qualitative or quantitative.

Open System

A system where both energy and matter can move across the boundary.

Closed System

A system where only energy can move across the boundary, while physical matter cannot.

Isolated System

A system where neither energy nor matter can cross the boundary.

Transient State

A temporary condition of a system at a specific period of time.

Steady State

A condition where input and output are equal and stable over long time periods.

Continuity Equation

An equation that assesses stuff going in, stuff going out, and how much is left over time in a system.

Equilibrium State

A state that tries to maintain the same condition for a long time period, which can be stable or unstable.

Feedback Loop

A process in which the state of a system changes based on past or current linkages, with all components influencing each other.

Positive Feedback

A process that amplifies changes within a system, pushing it towards instability.

Negative Feedback

A process that aims to balance changes and return a system to a stable state.

Tipping Point

The point at which a system enters a new, irreversible stable state due to significant change.