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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Closed System and Open System?

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The main difference between a closed system and an open system lies in the exchange of energy and matter with their surroundings:

  • Open System: In an open system, both energy and matter can be exchanged with the surroundings. For example, a stovetop system where heat and water vapor can be lost to the air is an open system. Biological organisms are also considered open systems, as they consume energy-storing molecules and release energy to the environment.
  • Closed System: In a closed system, only energy can be exchanged with the surroundings, not matter. For instance, if a pot on the stove has a tightly fitting lid, it would approximate a closed system. In this case, heat can be exchanged with the surroundings, but matter (water vapor) cannot leave the system.

In summary, an open system allows both energy and matter to be exchanged with the surroundings, while a closed system only allows energy to be exchanged with the surroundings and matter to remain constant within the system.

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  • What is the Difference Between Closed System and Open System?
  • Comparative Table: Closed System vs Open System

    • Comparative Table: Closed System vs Open System

    Here is a table summarizing the differences between closed and open systems in thermodynamics:

    Feature Open System Closed System
    Exchange of Matter Matter can be exchanged with the surrounding. Matter cannot be exchanged with the surrounding.
    Exchange of Energy Energy can be exchanged with the surrounding. Energy can be exchanged with the surrounding.
    Internal Mass The mass of the system varies with time. The mass of the system is constant.
    Boundary of the System Open systems have boundaries which are not closed. The boundary of a closed system is completely closed.
    Examples A pot on a stovetop with a loose lid, allowing heat and water vapor to be lost to the air. A pot on a stovetop with a tightly fitting lid, not allowing heat and water vapor to be lost to the air.

    In summary, open systems can exchange both energy and matter with their surroundings, while closed systems can exchange only energy with their surroundings but not matter.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.