Geology 106

Homework #4

Feedback Loops and Global Warming

Part I

 

Consider the two interactions noted below. Diagram their interactions using arrows as in class Ð remember there must be a forcer and a responder, but the number of step might vary. Decide if they are positive or negative, and state why you think so.  Write your diagrams/ answers to the right of each sketch (a couple of sentences is fine).

 

 

 

 

 

  CO2  and vegetation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

           

           

 

 

 

 

 

CO2 and water content of air

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bring this sheet to recitation on Friday.

 

 

Homework #4: Feedback Loops and Global Warming

 

Objective:  To understand the difference between positive and negative feedback loops in natural systems, and what role they play in contributing to uncertainties about global warming.

 

Task:  Supplement class information to write a 1-2 page essay addressing:  Which feedback loop studied in recitation introduces more uncertainty into the analysis of future global warming trends?

 

Audience:  A group of U.S. senators on a fact-finding mission.  They are well educated but are not scientists.

 

Guidelines:  Two-page maximum length, 1-2 references (do not need in-text citations unless you use a direct quote).  Emphasis is on convincing the reader that your main thesis is correct. 

 

READ THIS:  Remember to state your answer to this question (i.e. your main thesis) in the first paragraph of your paper.

 

READ THIS TOO:  The paper should be a collection of arguments supporting your main thesis, and evidence for them.  It should not be just a step-by-step description of what you did (the reader (your TA) already knows what you did!).

 

Evaluation:

 

This paper is worth 100 points:

 

____1.  (10) Paper is not plagiarized.  Automatic zero if plagiarized.

 

____2.  (14) Paper enters the discussion at the appropriate level for the target audience.

 

____3.  The paper develops its thesis with a subthesis structure that

 

____ (8)  has relevant subtheses supporting each other.

____ (8)  is a coherent piece of reasoning linked by logical transitions.

____ (8)  addresses other interpretations or weaknesses

 

____ 4.  For each subthesis, the writer furnished evidence/information that

 

____ (8)  is as great in quantity as is appropriate

____ (8)  is as specific/concrete as is appropriate

____ (12)  is relevant.

 

____ 5. (8)  The conclusion is thoughtful and cogent;  it contributes more to the question than a mere summary.

 

____6.  (8)  Spelling/punctuation and correct grammar.

 

____7.  (8)  Proper citations.