Glacial Episodes and Earth's Climate System

What concept best represents glacial episodes in Earth's climate system?

a. Positive feedback

b. Negative feedback

c. The “Daisy model”

d. The Gaia hypothesis

Answer:

A - Positive feedback

Edge, 100% on quiz

Final Answer:

Glacial episodes are best represented by the concept of a positive feedback loop in the Earth's climate system. This refers to the amplification of changes in climate, such as the cooling and growth of glaciers during an ice age.

Explanation:

The question asks for the concept that best represents glacial episodes. The correct answer is: a. positive feedback. This is because glacial episodes are part of a positive feedback loop in the Earth's climate system.

A positive feedback loop in this context refers to how changes in climate can cause additional changes. For example, a glacial episode or ice age can increase Earth's reflectivity, leading to additional cooling and more glacial growth. This amplifies the initial cooling, hence, a positive feedback effect.