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Positive Feedback Loops

Definition

Positive feedback loops are self-reinforcing cycles in which a change in one factor leads to an amplification of that change, resulting in further changes in the same direction. They can have both beneficial and detrimental effects on ecosystems.

Analogy

Imagine a snowball rolling down a hill, gaining more snow as it goes. The more snow it collects, the larger it becomes, making it roll even faster and collect even more snow. This is similar to how positive feedback loops work, where a small change leads to bigger changes that reinforce the initial change.

Related terms

Negative Feedback Loops: These are self-regulating cycles in which a change in one factor leads to responses that counteract or reverse the initial change.

Tipping Point: It refers to the threshold at which an ecosystem undergoes significant and often irreversible changes due to positive feedback loops.

Albedo Effect: It describes how different surfaces reflect sunlight differently, influencing temperature patterns and potentially contributing to positive feedback loops related to climate change.