open system

The concept of an 'open system' varies across disciplines, but generally refers to a system that interacts with its environment through the exchange of matter, energy, or information.

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Definition

C1Computing

(technical)A system that allows different hardware and software from various manufacturers to work together seamlessly.

Example

  • Linux is considered an open system because it supports various hardware and software configurations.

C1Physics

(technical)A system that can exchange both matter and energy with its surroundings.

Example

  • A boiling pot of water is an open system as it exchanges heat and steam with the environment.

B2Management

(business)An organization that interacts with its environment by exchanging resources, information, and energy.

Example

  • The company operates as an open system, adapting to market changes and customer feedback.

B2Biology

(scientific)An organism or biological system that exchanges materials and energy with its environment.

Example

  • Humans are open systems, constantly exchanging gases, nutrients, and waste products with their surroundings.

B2Sociology

(academic)A social system that is open to change, innovation, and external influences, characterized by flexibility and adaptability.

Example

  • Modern societies function as open systems, incorporating new cultural and technological influences.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "open system":

closed systemopen setopen fanopen sourceopen dooropen bookopen oopen washopen accessin the openopen wateropen eopen upopen rotoropen orderopen-door policywide openopen secretopen textureopen invitationoutside worldopen sea