Systems concepts applied to coastal landscapes: inputs, outputs, energy, stores/components, flows/transfers, positive/negative feedback, dynamic equilibrium
Geographers treat the coast as a system — a set of connected parts where energy and sediment constantly move in, through, and out. Disturbances in one part trigger chain reactions that ripple through the whole system.
Real World
After the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, vast amounts of sediment were suddenly deposited along coastlines across Southeast Asia, disrupting the dynamic equilibrium of beach systems and triggering decades of coastal readjustment through positive feedback loops.
Exam Focus
When asked to 'explain' dynamic equilibrium, always state what the equilibrium is AND what disrupts it, then describe the feedback response.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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