Stability and Equilibrium
Stable (Steady-State) Equilibrium
A stable equilibrium is like balancing on a bike — small adjustments keep you upright.
The Key Idea: Inputs = Outputs → the system stays stable (even if small changes happen)
- Body temperature: sweating when hot, shivering when cold
- Mature forest: trees die and new trees grow → overall size stays similar
⏰ Feedback Delays
A feedback delay means cause and effect do not happen immediately.
Why Delays Cause Problems: Because changes are delayed, people often overcorrect. This can cause the system to oscillate
Example: heating is turned up → room heats slowly → too much heat builds up → heating is turned off → room cools too much → the cycle repeats.
- Predator–prey cycles: prey numbers rise first, predators increase later
- CO₂ emissions may fall now, but climate effects appear decades later
Tipping Points
A tipping point is when the system can no longer return to its original state.
Why Tipping Points Matter: Small change → positive feedback → rapid system shift
Try adding nutrients to see how a lake crosses a tipping point.
Interactive diagram
Explore the labelled diagram, charts and maps for this topic in full study mode.
Before tipping point
- Clear lake
- Healthy forest
- Arctic ice cover
After tipping point
- Algal bloom → murky lake
- Forest dieback
- Ice-free ocean
IB Exam Tip: Positive feedback loops push systems toward tipping points. After crossing one, the system settles into a new (often worse) equilibrium.
Free preview
This is the free notes preview
You're reading the free notes. Aimnova Pro unlocks the full study experience — and you can try it with your first topic free to keep:
- FlashcardsLock in vocabulary and key terms with spaced repetition.
- Practice questionsAnswer exam-style questions and get instant AI marking.
- Mock exams & past-paper vaultSit full mocks and see exactly how examiners award marks.
- Personalised study planA daily plan built around your exam date and weak areas.
Start Studying Free Full access to Aimnova Pro · cancel anytime