Subject: Feedback Loops

Posted by Fernando Mazzuli on 2/9/2006
In Reply To:Feedback Loops Posted by Linda Booth Sweeney on 2/8/2006

Message:

Dear Linda,

We can describe many examples of processes that do not seem to involve feedback loops even though they could still express change over time.

Like the food chain described, we can show an energy flow that does not return to its source.

A flow of energy that does not return to its source does not mean that feedback loops are not involved in this example.

We certainly have feedback loops involved in the generation of solar energy.
We have feedback loops involved in the growth of plants, animals and their populations.

How can we remove those feedback loops and still have change in these systems? Can we have a food chain without those feedback loops?

Finally, does this mean that “Everything that changes through time is controlled by feedback loops”?

Regards,

Fernando.

Follow Ups:

Feedback Loops - Levin, Jeffrey S. 2/9/2006 
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Feedback Loops - Elane V. Scott 2/8/2006