IB ESS SL 1.2.12 Tipping point effects Question Bank
Practise IB ESS SL 1.2.12 by explaining how feedback loops move systems toward tipping points and new stable states.
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2026
- Course
- ESS SL
- Level
- SL
Exam points
- Explain how positive and negative feedback loops influence system stability.
- Relate feedback changes to thresholds, tipping points and alternate stable states.
1.2.12—Tipping point effects question 1
[Maximum number: 4]
Outline how feedback loops are involved in alternate stable states and the tipping points between them.
negative feedback loops occur when the output of a process inhibits or reverses the same process;
...thus inhibiting change/deviation/maintaining a system in equilibrium/one stable state;
positive feedback loops occur when the output of a process accelerates that same process;
...thus amplifying changes/deviations / driving system away from its equilibrium/stable state;
excessive change/deviation may drive system beyond its tipping point; ...when it will adopt a new equilibrium/alternate stable state;
Credit any of the above MPs if they are clearly shown by means of an annotated diagram or named example.
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