IB ESS HL 1.2.8 Negative Feedback Loops Question Bank
Explain how negative feedback counteracts change and stabilises a system.
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2026
- Course
- ESS HL
- Level
- HL
Explain how negative feedback counteracts change and stabilises a system.

Figure:Impact of deforestation on the water cycle
Describe the negative feedback mechanism by which cloud formation may moderate global temperature.
temperature rises → more evaporation → clouds increase;
→more shade/albedo/more reflection of incoming solar radiation → temp decreases;
Credit valid responses that include details above in form of full sentences or accurate diagrams.
Do not credit water being a GHG trapping outgoing heat or latent heat flow, as these are part of positive feedback. Do not credit to increased outgoing heat from Earth's surface (sensible heat flow) as this is due to lack of clouds (not formation).
Do not credit "more clouds → more precipitation => cooling effect", as this is, at best a regional impact