Biology / Unit 3 Bio 0502 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Systems: Open and Closed
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The idea
A system is the matter and energy under study; an open system exchanges both matter and energy with its surroundings, while a closed system exchanges energy alone.
In practice
A living cell is open, constantly trading nutrients and wastes with its environment while also exchanging energy.
Where people slip
A closed system is not isolated — it still exchanges energy freely, only matter stays sealed in.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
Builds on
- Nothing. This is a starting point.
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