Unit 7 Climate Feedback Loops

Front

What is a positive feedback loop?

Back

A positive feedback loop is a process where an initial change in a system causes further changes that amplify the original effect, leading to an extreme outcome.

Front

What is a negative feedback loop?

Back

A negative feedback loop is a process where an initial change in a system triggers responses that counteract the change, helping to stabilize the system.

Front

How does melting permafrost contribute to climate change?

Back

Melting permafrost releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas, which enhances the greenhouse effect and leads to further warming.

Front

What role does carbon dioxide play in ocean acidity?

Back

Carbon dioxide increases the acidity of the ocean when it dissolves in seawater, leading to harmful effects on marine life.

Front

What happens to polar icecaps as the Earth warms?

Back

As the Earth warms, polar icecaps melt, which can disrupt ocean currents and affect global climate patterns.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The greenhouse effect is the warming of the Earth's surface due to the trapping of heat by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Front

Give an example of a positive feedback loop in climate change.

Back

An example is the melting of Arctic ice, which reduces the Earth's albedo (reflectivity), causing more heat absorption and further ice melt.

Front

What is the significance of the Gulf Stream in climate regulation?

Back

The Gulf Stream is a warm ocean current that helps regulate climate by transferring heat from the tropics to the North Atlantic.

Front

What is albedo?

Back

Albedo is the measure of how much sunlight is reflected by a surface; surfaces with high albedo reflect more sunlight.

Front

How do feedback loops affect climate systems?

Back

Feedback loops can either amplify (positive feedback) or dampen (negative feedback) changes in climate systems, influencing overall climate stability.