* Open Systems: Open systems exchange both matter and energy with their surroundings.

* The Biosphere and Matter Exchange:

* Input: The biosphere constantly receives matter from its surroundings. This includes:

* Sunlight: The primary source of energy for most life on Earth.

* Atmospheric gases: Carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and oxygen are essential for life processes.

* Water: A key component of all living organisms and essential for many biological processes.

* Minerals: Nutrients from the Earth's crust that are absorbed by plants and then transferred through food chains.

* Output: The biosphere also releases matter back into its surroundings, including:

* Heat: A by-product of metabolism.

* Waste products: Organisms release waste gases (e.g., carbon dioxide), water, and other byproducts.

* Decomposed matter: Dead organisms and waste decompose, releasing nutrients back into the soil and atmosphere.

Closed System Example: A truly closed system would be a sealed container where no matter could enter or leave. This is not the case with the biosphere.