What qualifies as a system ?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of a "system" and what qualifies as one. The participants mention various examples such as an amoeba, the Milky Way galaxy, an electron, and a college football team, and discuss whether they can be considered systems based on different definitions.
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eraemia
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What qualifies as a "system"?

Homework Statement



Which of the following things qualifiy as a "system"? (You may choose as many as you'd like.)

a. an amoeba
b. the Milky Way galaxy
c. an electron
d. Wheaton College football team

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Everything except an electron?
 
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  • #2
depends on the definition of "system"
 
  • #3
i am pretty sure that a system in general is whatever you define it to be. i would say that all of them are systems.
 
  • #4
Epiphone said:
i am pretty sure that a system in general is whatever you define it to be. i would say that all of them are systems.

No. The question came from a class, right? And this class is studying the properties of systems, correct? What is the definition from the textbook for this class of what a system it? If it's an economics class, there will be one definition. If it's a physics class, the definition will be different (and very specific).
 

What qualifies as a system?

A system is a group of interacting or interrelated entities that form a unified whole. It can be anything from a biological organism to a mechanical device, as long as it has interconnected parts that work together to achieve a specific function or purpose.

What makes a system different from a collection of objects?

A system is more than just a collection of objects; it has specific components that are organized and connected in a way that allows them to perform a function or accomplish a goal. A collection of objects, on the other hand, may not have any specific organization or purpose.

Can a system be a closed or open system?

Yes, a system can be either closed or open. A closed system exchanges energy but not matter with its surroundings, while an open system exchanges both energy and matter with its surroundings.

What are the different types of systems?

There are several types of systems, including physical systems (such as a machine or organism), conceptual systems (such as a mathematical or social system), and abstract systems (such as a belief system or economic system).

How do scientists study systems?

Scientists study systems by analyzing their components, interactions, and emergent properties. They also use mathematical and computational models to simulate and predict how a system will behave under different conditions. Additionally, they may conduct experiments or observations to gather data and test their hypotheses about the system.

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