IB ESS SL 1.2.2 Systems Approach
Practise identifying storages, inputs, outputs and flows in ecological and resource-management systems.
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2026
- Course
- ESS SL
- Level
- SL
Practise identifying storages, inputs, outputs and flows in ecological and resource-management systems.
The soil system includes storages of inorganic nutrients.
Identify two inputs to these storages.
Inputs:
Decomposition;
Infiltration of dissolved minerals / atmospheric deposition/precipitation;
Weathering of parent material / sedimentation from run-off / river flow;
Animal excretion;
Fertiliser use;
(Atmospheric/biological) nitrogen fixation;

Candidates may present their answers in the form of a diagram, but it is not necessary for full credit.
Award [1] for each correct input identified, up to [2 max].
Do not credit flows that are transfers or transformations within the soil eg ammonification / nitrification / capillary movement, etc.
Do not accept "pesticides" (these do not provide inorganic nutrients).
Identify two outputs from these storages.
Outputs:

Candidates may present their answers in the form of a diagram, but it is not necessary for full credit.
Award [1] for each correct output identified, up to [2 max].
Do not credit flows that are transfers or transformations within the soil eg ammonification / nitrification / capillary movement, etc.