Homework 1

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The City College of New York, CUNY *

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217

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Electrical Engineering

Date

Apr 3, 2024

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docx

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2

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1. Which of the following best describes a key characteristic of systems thinking? a) Linear cause-and-effect relationships b) Reductionist approach to problem-solving c) Focus on isolated components within a system d) Recognition of interconnectedness and feedback loops Answer: d. Recognition of interconnectedness and feedback loops Explanation: Systems thinking emphasizes understanding systems as interconnected wholes with feedback loops, rather than just linear cause-and-effect relationships. 2. In a causal loop diagram, a reinforcing loop is characterized by: a) Balancing feedback leading to stability b) Negative feedback promoting equilibrium c) Positive feedback amplifying change d) Non-linear relationships between variables Answer: c. Positive feedback amplifying change Explanation: A reinforcing loop in a causal loop diagram is characterized by positive feedback, where changes in one variable reinforce further changes in the same direction. 3. How does the reciprocal relationship between humans and nature, as depicted in "Braiding Sweetgrass," align with the concept of causal linkages in Earth systems? a) Humans are portrayed as passive recipients of nature's bounty, disrupting natural cycles. b) The book emphasizes human domination over nature, thereby breaking causal linkages within ecosystems. c) Interactions between humans and nature are depicted as mutually influential, forming interconnected causal loops. d) The narrative suggests that humans exist outside the realm of Earth systems, thereby minimizing causal connections. Answer: c. Interactions between humans and nature are depicted as mutually influential, forming interconnected causal loops. Explanation: The reciprocal relationship between humans and nature, as portrayed in "Braiding Sweetgrass," aligns with the concept of interconnected causal linkages in Earth systems.
4. In "Braiding Sweetgrass," the author emphasizes the concept of reciprocity, which parallels the idea of feedback loops in Earth systems. How does this concept manifest in the text? a) Reciprocity is depicted as a one-way transaction, where nature provides resources without any return. b) The narrative highlights reciprocity as a human-centric notion, neglecting its impact on broader Earth systems. c) The author illustrates reciprocity through the give-and-take relationship between humans and the natural world, creating dynamic feedback loops. d) Reciprocity is portrayed as a static exchange, devoid of any causal relationships or feedback mechanisms. Answer: c. The author illustrates reciprocity through the give-and-take relationship between humans and the natural world, creating dynamic feedback loops. Explanation: Reciprocity in "Braiding Sweetgrass" is depicted as a dynamic exchange between humans and nature, akin to feedback loops in Earth systems. 5. In Daisyworld, what role do black and white daisies play in regulating the planet's temperature? a) Black daisies absorb more sunlight, leading to cooling of the planet b) White daisies reflect more sunlight, leading to warming of the planet c) Black daisies absorb more sunlight, leading to warming of the planet d) White daisies absorb more sunlight, leading to cooling of the planet Answer: a. Black daisies absorb more sunlight, leading to cooling of the planet Explanation: In Daisyworld, black daisies absorb more sunlight, warming the planet, while white daisies reflect more sunlight, cooling the planet.
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