AP Environmental Science Practice: Climate Feedback Loops Quiz - Prep for the Exam!

📚 Topic Summary

Climate feedback loops are processes that can either amplify (positive feedback) or diminish (negative feedback) the effects of climate change. Understanding these loops is crucial for predicting future climate scenarios. Positive feedback loops accelerate warming, while negative feedback loops tend to stabilize the climate.

🧠 Part A: Vocabulary

Match the term to its correct definition:

1. Term: Albedo Definition: A. A process that decreases the initial warming.
2. Term: Positive Feedback Loop Definition: B. A measure of how much sunlight a surface reflects.
3. Term: Negative Feedback Loop Definition: C. The release of carbon dioxide ($CO_2$) from melting permafrost.
4. Term: Permafrost Thaw Definition: D. A process that increases the initial warming.
5. Term: Cloud Formation Definition: E. Can have either positive or negative effect on feedback loops.

Answers:

1. Albedo - B
2. Positive Feedback Loop - D
3. Negative Feedback Loop - A
4. Permafrost Thaw - C
5. Cloud Formation - E

✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks

As the Earth warms, ice melts, reducing the area covered by ice. Ice has a high __________, meaning it reflects a large portion of incoming solar radiation. When ice melts and is replaced by darker surfaces like water or land, the Earth absorbs more solar radiation, leading to further __________. This is an example of a __________ feedback loop.

Answers: albedo, warming, positive

🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking

Explain how the ocean's absorption of carbon dioxide can act as both a positive and a negative feedback loop.

Answer:

The ocean's absorption of $CO_2$ acts as a negative feedback loop by removing $CO_2$ from the atmosphere, thus reducing the greenhouse effect. However, it also acts as a positive feedback loop because increased $CO_2$ absorption leads to ocean acidification, which can harm marine ecosystems and reduce the ocean's ability to absorb $CO_2$ in the long run. Additionally, warmer ocean temperatures decrease the solubility of $CO_2$, reducing the ocean's capacity to absorb it.