A feedback effect is a reactionary effect that affects the effect causing it.

A feedback effect can be of

two types:

1. Negative Feedback – A negative feedback is an reactionary effect that negates the action
causing it and thus bringing the overall effect to some sort of equilibrium. Take for example s
the surface temperature of the Earth increases there are increased levels of evaporation
from the oceans. This increased evaporation results in more clouds forming in the lower
atmosphere. These clouds in turn reflect some incident solar radiation back into space,
slightly decreasing the surface temperature.
2. Positive Feedback – A positive feedback on the other hand is a reactionary effect that
aggravates the initial change that caused it thereby causing a runoff process. Take the
example of wildfires. As the amount of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere increases its
temperature increases making our forests drier. As a result, the probability of wildfires
increases. In the event of a wildfire more carbon dioxide is released making the atmosphere
warmer and perpetuating the cycle with a greater intensity