AllChemicals — The Online Chemical Glossary | https://allchemicals.info/chemical/757-system
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Quick Reference
Also Known As
Thermodynamic system, chemical system, reaction system
What is System?
The part of the universe chosen for thermodynamic analysis. Open systems exchange both matter and energy with surroundings; closed systems exchange only energy; isolated systems exchange neither. The choice of system boundary affects how thermodynamic quantities are defined.
Properties & Characteristics
A thermodynamic system is the part of the universe under study, separated from the surroundings by a boundary. Systems can be isolated (no exchange of energy or matter), closed (energy exchange only), or open (both energy and matter exchange). Biological cells are open systems. The first law of thermodynamics applies to the change in internal energy of a system.
Uses & Applications
Defining the system is the first step in any thermodynamic analysis. Chemical reactions are analysed as systems to calculate heat, work, enthalpy, and entropy changes. Industrial reactor design treats the reaction vessel as the system for heat and mass balance calculations.
Safety Information
Isolated systems in thermodynamics are theoretical constructs. In practice, chemical processes approach isolated systems when thermal insulation is used, which can lead to heat accumulation and thermal runaway if exothermic reactions are not controlled.
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
SynonymsThermodynamic system, chemical system, reaction system
Frequently Asked Questions
The part of the universe chosen for thermodynamic analysis. Open systems exchange both matter and energy with surroundings; closed systems exchange only energy; isolated systems exchange neither. The choice of system boundary affects how thermodynamic quantities are defined.
Defining the system is the first step in any thermodynamic analysis. Chemical reactions are analysed as systems to calculate heat, work, enthalpy, and entropy changes. Industrial reactor design treats the reaction vessel as the system for heat and mass balance calculations.
Isolated systems in thermodynamics are theoretical constructs. In practice, chemical processes approach isolated systems when thermal insulation is used, which can lead to heat accumulation and thermal runaway if exothermic reactions are not controlled.
Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature,
CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA,
and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified
professionals before handling chemicals.
