What make system different from environment?

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In summary, the terms "system" and "environment" are often used in physics, with "system" referring to the specific portion of the universe being studied and "environment" referring to everything outside of the system. The only truly closed system is the universe itself, as even small systems can still interact with their surroundings. However, for the sake of investigating quantum theory, small systems can be treated as isolated from their environment.
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When I was reading about QM, I always saw the word system and environment. What differentiate them?
 
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The word "system" is among the most used in pysics.QM couldn't make an exception...
The word "environment" relates to "everything which is outside a closed system"...I woudn't use it in connection with QM...

Daniel.
 
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I think we just choose to call whatever tiny part of the universe we are studying "the system" and the other part of the universe interacting with or surrounding the part we are studying "the environment".

The only closed system is the universe itself because particle interactions are too common even in deep space to allow any system within the universe to be truly isolated and separate from the environment.

We can still treat a small system as if it is truly isolated from its environment to investigate quantum theory, though. Schrodinger's cat is an example of, theoretically, making the box a tiny "universe" for the cat. Experimentally, however, the cat always interacts with the environment surrounding the box and this destroys the weird effects for the cat a truly isolated "universe" would have.
 
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FAQ: What make system different from environment?

What is the definition of a system?

A system is a collection of interrelated and interdependent components that work together to achieve a common goal or function.

How is a system different from an environment?

A system is a smaller, self-contained entity that operates within a larger environment. The environment includes all external factors and influences that can affect the system.

What are some examples of systems?

Some examples of systems include biological systems like the human body, mechanical systems like a car engine, and social systems like a government or a business organization.

How do systems interact with their environment?

Systems interact with their environment through inputs and outputs. Inputs are the resources or information that a system takes in from the environment, while outputs are the results or products that the system produces and releases back into the environment.

Why is it important to understand the difference between a system and an environment?

Understanding the difference between a system and an environment is important because it allows us to analyze and study complex phenomena and processes. By breaking down a larger system into smaller subsystems, we can better understand how they function and how they are affected by their environment.

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