With reference to minerals, the earth is a/an closed/open system.

Explanation

To determine whether the Earth is a closed or open system with reference to minerals, we can break down the solution into the following steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Define Closed and Open Systems**:
- A **closed system** is one where there is no exchange of energy or matter with the surroundings.
- An **open system**, on the other hand, allows for the exchange of both energy and matter with its surroundings.

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