ESS midterm

System

A collection of interacting, interrelated, or interdependent parts that work together to form a complex whole.

Emergent Properties

Features or behaviors of a system that do not exist in the individual components but arise from their interaction. The outcome of the system

Systems Approach

A holistic way of examining an issue by looking at the whole system and the relationships between its parts.

Reductionist Approach

Breaking down a system into its smallest parts to understand them individually.

Inputs

Anything that enters a system, such as solar energy or water.

Processes

The internal actions or transfers that change the inputs within a system.

Outputs

Anything that exits a system as a result of the processes.

Positive Feedback Loop

A feedback loop where the output causes further increase or accumulation in a system, moving it away from equilibrium.

Negative Feedback Loop

A feedback loop where the output counteracts the input, stabilizing the system and promoting equilibrium.

Transfer

The movement of energy or matter through a system without changing its state.

Transformation

The change of energy or matter from one state or form to another.

1st Law of Thermodynamics

Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another.

2nd Law of Thermodynamics

In every energy transformation, there is an increase in entropy; no transformation is 100% efficient.

Stores

Places where matter or energy is kept within a system.

Flows

The movement of matter or energy between stores in a system.

Open System

A system where both energy and matter are exchanged with the surroundings.

Closed System

A system where energy is exchanged with the surroundings but matter is not.

Isolated System

A theoretical system where neither energy nor matter is exchanged, which does not exist naturally.

Models

Simplified versions of reality used to understand complex interactions and predict future outcomes.

Advantages of Models

They help visualize complex processes and allow for predictions.

Limitations of Models

Models are only as good as the data provided; inaccurate conclusions can arise from oversimplification or incorrect assumptions.