Process:  - A dam is built in an area prone to flooding - A large amount of rain occurs - The water builds up behind the dam - The dam opens its floodgates when it starts to get full - The water flows into a river below the dam - The dam closes its gates - The dam will occasionally open its gates again to gradually release more water - Eventually all of the floodwater will be slowly released into the river without causing any flood damage.  Perturbation hypothesis: suppose floodgates are destroyed happens, how will it affect DEGRADED safety from flooding.  Does the supposed perturbation have an effect (direct or indirect) on the process?

yes