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Components of a system
Inputs
Outputs
Stores
Flows
Boundaries
Inputs
Where matter or energy is added to the system
Outputs
Where matter or energy leaves the system
Stores
Where matter or energy builds up in the system
Flows
Where matter or energy moves in the system
Boundaries
Limits to the system
Open system
When systems receive inputs and transfer outputs of energy or matter with other systems.
Closed system
System doesn’t exchange matter with sorrundings. Energy inputs equal outputs
Isolated System
A system that ahs no interactions beyond its boundaries
Dynamic equilibrium
When inputs equal outputs despite changing conditions
Positive feedback
occurs when a chain of events amplifies the impacts of the original event,
Negative feedback
refers to a chain of events that nullifies the impacts of the original event, leading to dynamic equilibrium.
On a local scale the carbon and water cycles are both
open systems
On a global scale the carbon and water cycles are both
Closed systems
is a local drainage basin a closed or open system
water may be lost as an output through evapotranspiration and runoff, but more water may be gained as an input through precipitation. As the inputs and outputs are not balanced, it is an open system
Inputs of local water cycle
Percipitaion
Outputs of local water cycle
Evapotranspiration - The combined return of water to the atmosphere from evaporation and transpiration (plants)
Streamflow - Water that flows through streams and into the ocean or as tributaries to other rivers
Stores of local water cycle
Groundwater - Water stored in the pore spaces of rocks
Soil Water
Rivers
Interception - Water stored temporarily by trees etc, before it reaches the ground
Surface
Flows of local water cycle
Infiltration - Water moving from above ground into the soil.
Percolation - Water moves from the ground or soil into porous rock or rock fractures.
Throughflow - Flow of water through the soil
Surface Runoff
Groundwater Flow - Flow of water through the rocks
Streamflow
Stemflow - Flow of water that has been intercepted by plants or trees, down a stem, leaf, branch or other part of a plant
Water balance percipitation equation
Precipitation = Total Runoff + Evapotranspiration +/- Storage
The water cycle is impacted on a local scale by:
Deforestation - Less interception. Soil less able to store water
Storm Events - Increases runoff and water storage
Seasonal Changes - More interception in spring; Snow reduces flows; Hot weather reduces precipitation
Agriculture - Livestock ground trampled so less infiltration; Crops - Ploughing increases infiltration. Ditches increase runoff
Urbanisation - Impermeable surfaces increase runoff
4 spheres
Hydrosphere
Lithosphere
Cryosphere
Atmosphere
Note 
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