Explain the following terms with an example each: (i) Open system (ii) Isolated system (iii) Closed system
(i) In an open system, there is exchange of energy and matter between system and surroundings. The presence of reactants in an open beaker is an example of an open system. Here the boundary is an imaginary surface enclosing the beaker and reactants (ii) In a closed system, there is no exchange of matter, but exchange of energy is possible between system and the surroundings. The presence of reactants in a closed vessel made of conducting material e.g. copper or steel is an example of a closed system. (iii) In an isolated system, there is no exchange of energy or matter between the system and the surroundings. The presence of reactants in a thermos flask or any other closed insulated vessel is an example of an isolated system.
