System

Definition

A system is a defined collection of objects considered for studying interactions and conservation laws. It can be isolated, closed, or open depending on the exchange of energy and matter.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In an isolated system, no external forces act on the system, so its total linear momentum is conserved.
2. For a closed system, energy can be transferred in and out but matter cannot; linear momentum may not be conserved if external forces are present.
3. An open system allows both matter and energy to cross its boundaries.
4. The choice of the system's boundary can simplify the analysis of collisions and momentum conservation problems.
5. Internal forces within a system do not affect the total linear momentum of that system.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes an isolated system from a closed or open one?
• Why is it important to define a system's boundary when analyzing collisions?
• How do internal forces affect the total linear momentum in an isolated system?

Related terms

Linear Momentum:

The product of an object's mass and velocity, represented as $\vec{p} = m \vec{v}$.

Conservation Law: A principle stating that certain properties (e.g., mass, energy, momentum) remain constant within an isolated system.

Collision:

An event where two or more bodies exert forces on each other for a relatively short duration.