4.1 Open and Closed Systems

How do we define a system and the interactions within the system?

1. I can identify a system in a given situation.

2. I can differentiate between an open and closed system.

3. I can describe the transfer of energy within a closed system.

4. I can describe the transfer of energy into and/or out of a system.

• Does an object store energy in any of the following ways?

  • Can it be compressed or stretched? (Elastic Potential Energy) [Us ]

  • Can it change height within the gravitational field of a large body (typically Earth)? (Gravitational Potential Energy) [Ug]

  • As a mass, can it move within your system? (Kinetic)[K]

• If yes, to any of these questions, include it in your system. 

  • Does it have or will it have Ug ? Include the earth. 

• In the example to the right, 

  • Can the spring be compressed? YES. 

  • Can car change height in gravitational field? YES

  • Can the car move? YES

  • Can the ramp move, change height, or be stretched or compressed? NO