Isolated Systems

[Andrew F 2L]

I am confused as to what exactly an isolated system is. The definition states that it can exchange neither matter nor energy with its surrounds but why is this system studied/useful if we cannot determine any changes from it? Thank you!

[Amanda Lin 2I]

Reactions can still occur within the system without exchanging matter or energy with its surroundings.

[Dina Marchenko 2J]

Especially if you want to know how a system changes over time (ex- thru a reaction) without being influences by any surroundings or outside factors, isolated systems are incredibly useful. Measuring equipment can be put inside of the system to properly gauge a change in some characteristic of the system. It's also good for preservation.

[Max Madrzyk Dis 4G]

We can observe the changes within the isolated system, but an isolated system will have no effect on the outside world.

[Anthony Hatashita 4H]

With an isolated system you can still observe changes happening within without interruption or influence from outside the system.

[Joanne Lee 1J]

In an isolated system, a reaction can still take place inside the system but it doesn't have any effect on the outside world. Therefore, changes in the system can still be observed, recorded and calculated.