Open System, Closed System and Isolated System - Thermodynamics & Physics

Summary

This tutorial explains the differences between open, closed, and isolated systems. An open system allows both matter and energy to flow in and out, exemplified by a container with water exposed to the environment. In a closed system, while matter is contained, energy can still transfer, like heat escaping from a sealed container. An isolated system, however, is highly insulated, preventing both matter and energy from entering or leaving. The video clearly outlines these distinctions to enhance understanding of thermodynamic systems.

Takeaways

• 🌊 Open systems allow both mass (matter) and energy to flow in and out.
• 🔄 In open systems, gases like oxygen can enter or leave freely.
• 💡 Energy forms like heat or light can also move into or out of an open system.
• 🔒 Closed systems prevent matter from entering or leaving but allow energy transfer.
• 🚫 In closed systems, external gases cannot mix with the contents.
• 🔥 Heat energy can freely flow into or out of a closed system.
• 🛡️ Isolated systems are sealed and well-insulated from their environment.
• ❌ In isolated systems, neither matter nor energy can enter or leave.
• 🔄 An isolated system is both a closed system and insulated against energy transfer.
• 📚 The key distinctions between these systems are based on the flow of mass and energy.

Q & A

What is an open system?

An open system is one where both matter and energy can flow in and out. For example, a container of water that allows oxygen to enter and heat to transfer.

How does mass flow in an open system?

In an open system, mass can flow into and out, meaning substances like gases can enter or exit the system freely.

What types of energy can flow in an open system?

In an open system, both heat energy and light energy can flow into or out of the system.

What characterizes a closed system?

A closed system allows energy to flow in and out, but not matter. For example, a sealed container that prevents gases from entering or leaving.

Can heat energy enter or exit a closed system?

Yes, in a closed system, heat energy can flow into or out, despite matter being contained.

What defines an isolated system?

An isolated system is characterized by both matter and energy not being able to enter or leave. It is effectively insulated from the surroundings.

How does matter behave in an isolated system?

In an isolated system, matter cannot escape or enter; it is completely sealed off from external influences.

What happens to energy in an isolated system?

In an isolated system, neither heat energy nor any other form of energy can enter or exit; the system is thermally insulated.

What are the main differences between open, closed, and isolated systems?

In an open system, both matter and energy can flow in and out; in a closed system, matter cannot flow but energy can; in an isolated system, neither matter nor energy can flow.

Can you give an example of each type of system?

An open system could be a fish tank; a closed system might be a thermos bottle; an isolated system could be a perfectly insulated container that keeps heat and matter contained.