Systems Theory in Physical Geography

Information used in systems is organized into a hierarchy of five levels, following W. H. Terjung; first, collected data; second, sets of morphological variables; third, flow systems of energy and matter; fourth, process-form systems; fifth, systems regulated by cybernetic feedback. System variables, rigorously defined by dimensional analysis, are grouped into four classes: A. dynamic variables related to energy force, and stress; B. mass-flow variables expressing rates of flow of matter; C. geometry variables describing size and form within systems; D. material-property variables, including environmental constants and regulator variables. The second level of systems analysis interrelates a set of morphological elements in a meaningful way in terms of system origin or function. Correlation and regression methods establish significant relationships among variables, which may be stated as empirical or rational equations based on field or laboratory observations. Open energy flow systems and open or closed material flow systems of the third level can be described by dimensionally correct equations or by schematic flow diagrams. Process-form systems of the fourth level are characterized by self-regulation through physical feedback loops. Cybernetic feedback characterizes the fifth level and links natural systems to those regulated or disturbed by human intervention.