Earth is an

Options

A. Open system
B. Closed system
C. Both (1) and (2)
D. None of these

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Open and Closed Systems:**
- An open system is one that can exchange both energy and matter with its surroundings.
- A closed system can exchange energy but not matter with its surroundings.

2. **Earth as an Open System:**
- The Earth receives energy from the sun. This energy enters the Earth's system and is utilized by various processes, such as photosynthesis in plants.
- Some of this energy is reflected back into space, indicating that Earth can exchange energy with its environment.

3. **Earth as a Closed System:**
- While energy can enter and leave the Earth, the matter (such as water, gases, and minerals) is largely contained within the Earth’s atmosphere and surface.
- The matter does not escape into space; it cycles through various processes (like the water cycle, carbon cycle, etc.) but remains within the Earth system.

4. **Conclusion:**
- Since Earth can exchange energy (open system) but not matter (closed system), it can be classified as both an open system for energy and a closed system for matter.
- Therefore, the correct answer to the question is that Earth is both an open and closed system.

**Final Answer:**
Earth is both an open system for energy and a closed system for matter.

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