Climate: Feedback Loops & Albedo Effect

Front

What is Albedo?

Back

Albedo is the measurement of the amount of reflectivity of a surface, expressed as a percentage.

Front

What happens in a positive feedback loop?

Back

In a positive feedback loop, each action creates a consequence that amplifies the other action.

Front

Give an example of a positive feedback loop related to climate change.

Back

As the Earth warms, ice cover melts, exposing soil or water. Albedo decreases, leading to more energy absorption and further warming.

Front

What is a negative feedback loop?

Back

A negative feedback loop is a process that counteracts changes, helping to maintain stability, such as maintaining body temperature.

Front

How does Albedo affect global temperatures?

Back

Higher albedo means more sunlight is reflected, leading to cooler temperatures, while lower albedo means more sunlight is absorbed, leading to warming.

Front

What is the relationship between ice cover and albedo?

Back

Ice cover has a high albedo, reflecting sunlight. When ice melts, the lower albedo of water or soil leads to increased absorption of heat.

Front

What is an example of a negative feedback loop in nature?

Back

An example is the regulation of body temperature: when the body overheats, mechanisms like sweating are activated to cool it down.

Front

What role do feedback loops play in climate systems?

Back

Feedback loops can either amplify (positive feedback) or dampen (negative feedback) the effects of climate change.

Front

What is the significance of understanding feedback loops in climate science?

Back

Understanding feedback loops helps predict how changes in the environment can lead to further changes, influencing climate models.

Front

What is the difference between positive and negative feedback loops?

Back

Positive feedback loops amplify changes, while negative feedback loops counteract changes to maintain balance.