Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 2.18
Simplified depiction of energy flows and
transformations in terrestrial ecosystems.
Similar processes operate in aquatic ecosystems, although in their case much of the
initial input of chemical energy is derived from organic matter washed into the waters
from the land.
On a global scale it is impossible to quantify precisely the effects of all these
processes. What is clear is that energy transfers create a fabric of relationships that bind
the global system together, and provide the motive power for the processes that operate
within our world, and which are the very foundation of our existence.
FURTHER READING
Ahrens, C. D. (2000)
Meteorology Today
, sixth edition, Pacific Grove CA: Brooks-Cole (chapters 1
and 2). A modern and very colourful meteorology text at an elementary level.
Peixoto, J. P., and Oort, A. H. (1992)
Physics of Climate
, New York: American Institute of Physics.
An advanced text for those with an understanding of mathematics and physics. It sets out to
explain the principles of climate in physical terms as a basis for atmospheric modelling.
