The universe

[Phi Phi Do 2E]

Why is the universe an isolated system?

[lindsay lathrop 2C]

The universe is an isolated system because neither matter or energy can be exchanged/transferred in or out. Yes, there are no rigid walls or insulation but it is still considered an isolated system as the most important definition is that matter and energy cannot be exchanged. The universe includes everything, so if it includes everything it can only interact within itself.

[CalebBurns3L]

Assuming that the universe contains everything in existence, then the universe would indeed be an isolated system because no energy or matter can leave the system of "everything in existence."

[Warda Sahib 2J]

Because no energy or matter can be transferred

[Kayla Tchorz-Dis 1F]

The universe is isolated because we consider it to be everything in existence, therefore it cannot lose energy or matter to anything else.

[Kevin Ru 1D]

You might be getting confused with the entire universe vs the "observable" universe. The entire universe is isolated because it contains everything by definition, and has no surroundings as a result. It literally is everything. However, if you are referring to the universe that we can see, then you could argue that it is an open system as there are "boundaries" we have not yet overcome in which matter and energy can freely pass through. Hope that helps!

[Christina Cen 2J]

nothing can be exchanged outside the universe because nothing outside the universe exists

[Annie Lieu-1H]

As of now, the universe is the ultimate surrounding that contains everything. So there is nothing outside to exchange with.

[Clarissa Molina 1D]

Would a 20mL vial filled with an organic solvent be open or isolated? and why?

[Ishita Monga 1B]

Would a 20mL vial filled with an organic solvent be open or isolated? and why?

A vial would be an open system because it can exchange both heat and matter with its surroundings. If the vial was closed, it would be a closed system. If the vial was closed and insulated, it would be an isolated system.