What is a positive feedback loop and how does this concept relate to global warming?
A positive feedback loop is a self-reinforcing system, a process that creates conditions that make that process quicken or intensify. The positive part of the term has nothing to do with positive outcomes, and that is especially true when it comes to global warming. Common expressions referring to a positive feedback loop include: vicious cycle, snowballing, or run-away situation. Global warming is proving to be affected by a growing number examples of positive feedback loops. Example 1: The albedo effect (see above) is one example of a positive feedback loop. As the planet warms, more ice and snow melts, exposing more ocean water and tundra. These darker surfaces absorb more incoming solar radiation, causing the planet to warm further, which in turn causes more ice and snow to melt, and so on. Example 2 – Higher temperatures in the Arctic cause the permafrost to begin melting. This melting causes the decomposition of organic material that has been frozen in the soil. This decompositio
