Closed Systems

[Maya Gollamudi 1G]

How do closed systems exchange energy with the environment but isolated systems do not?

[Aarja Pavade 1H]

If you think of an isolated system as being insulated, it would make sense that it would retain energy and not lose it to the surroundings (ex: thermos). Closed systems, on the other hand, are sealed but not insulated. This means that that energy exchange can happen between the system and its surroundings. An example that is given is an ice pack for injuries. This is a closed system because the ice is sealed inside the pack, so matter cannot be exchanged, but when you apply it to an affected area of your body, energy is exchanged.

[Daniel Chen 2L]

An example that Dr. Lavelle gave us in class between the difference between the closed and isolated systems is that typically the isolated system is insulated. This way, since the system is insolated, it can't transfer energy with its surroundings. A closed system is, however, not insulated. That means it can exchange energy with its surroundings. Here is a very simple and sort of basic example: Closed system is like a sealed foam cup, while an Isolated System, is a double-layered sealed foam cup.

[Matthew Tsai 2H]

The main difference is insulation. Even if a system is sealed and no exchange of matter is occurring, heat exchange can still occur (e.g. a heat pack gives off heat)

[Mariana Fuentes 1L]

For a closed system think of Pressure cooker or frying pan on stove with the lid on. For an isolated system think of a hydroflask.

[Tahlia Mullins]

Insulation is the main difference between the two systems. For an isolated system, a calorimeter is a great example because it is insulated, ensuring that heat will not be exchanged between the system and the surroundings.

[Radha Patel 4I]

Closed systems are not complete sealed away from its surroundings. There is still heat that can be transferred. The way I think of isolated systems, is that there is no heat transfer and energy can not be exchanged with the surroundings.

[Lauren Stack 1C]

Closed systems are still allowed to exchange energy with the outside world, while isolated systems are not. This is caused by the "isolating" factor of insulation. If you think about a really good thermos or bomb calorimeter, all of the energy should be stored and maintained in the vessel because of insulating factors. If you think of a closed system, like a beaker with a cap, the beaker can still exchange heat energy with its surroundings. In both, the products and reactants remain in the vessel/area of reaction. It is the energy difference that defines if it is isolated or closed.

[RobertXu_2J]

Closed systems cannot exchange mass but they can exchange energy. Think of it as a metal can that's closed. The material inside cannot get out, but if you heat a flame under it, the matter inside will get hotter, thus energy is being exchanged. But if the system is isolated, it cannot exchange energy either. So, it would be like an extremely well-insulated can and nothing that happens on the outside will affect what happens on the inside.