Gas is contained in a piston-cylinder assembly and undergoes three processes. First, the gas is compressed at a constant pressure of 100 [kPa] from initial volume of 1.0 [m3] to a volume of 0.5 [m3]. Second, the gas pressure is increased by heating at constant volume up to 200 [kPa]. Third, the gas is returned to its initial pressure and volume by a process for which P ∀=constant. All pressures given are absolute. For the gas as a system, is the system best considered open, closed, or isolated? Why?

Sasha has just gotten a new job in a nearby city. after comparison shopping, she found that renting a nice two-bedroom apartment would cost around $800 per month. her utilities would cost about $150 per month. sasha has enough money saved for a down payment, and she found that she can buy a three-bedroom house or condo with a mortgage payment of $1,000 per month, including taxes and homeowner's insurance. her utilities would cost about $200 per month. what is the advantage of buying the house over renting the apartment?