Feedback loops are the interactions among the Earth's five spheres that either amplify or diminish changes in climate.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Feedback loops are an important component of the Earth's climate system, and can either reinforce or dampen changes in climate by altering the balance of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, regulating the amount of solar radiation absorbed by the Earth's surface, and affecting the cycling of water and nutrients among the spheres. Some examples of feedback loops include the ice-albedo feedback (where melting ice reduces the reflective surface of the Earth, leading to more absorption of solar radiation and further warming), the carbon cycle feedback (where increasing temperatures cause more carbon dioxide to be released from soil and vegetation, which in turn amplifies warming), and the water vapor feedback (where warmer temperatures lead to more evaporation and a greater greenhouse effect, further warming the atmosphere).

Feedback Loops Are the Interactions Among the Earth's Five Spheres