Glacial Episodes and Feedback Loops

What are glacial episodes an example of?

a. positive feedback
b. negative feedback
c. the "Daisy model"
d. the Gaia hypothesis

Answer:

a. positive feedback

Glacial episodes serve as an example of positive feedback in the Earth's climate system. These episodes contribute to making the next glacial period more severe and long-lasting than the previous one. The positive relationship between the reflectance of the land surface, energy absorption, and the severity of the glacial period is a key factor in this feedback loop.

As the reflectance of the land surface increases, the amount of energy absorbed decreases. This decreased energy absorption leads to a more severe and prolonged glacial period, creating a feedback loop that amplifies the effects of glacial episodes.