What type of system uses thermal inertia for heat transfer?

A passive system utilizes thermal inertia for heat transfer by relying on the natural characteristics of materials to store and release heat. This type of system does not involve mechanical means or active technology to control temperature; instead, it capitalizes on the surrounding environment and the inherent thermal properties of the materials involved.

For instance, in passive solar design, building materials that can absorb heat during the day and release it slowly at night are used to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. This natural heat exchange helps to regulate temperatures without the need for energy-consuming equipment, showcasing how thermal inertia can be effectively employed in managing heat transfer.

In contrast, active systems involve mechanical components such as pumps or fans to enhance heat transfer and require energy input to function. Closed systems are defined by their ability to contain a fixed amount of working fluid, while open systems interact with their surroundings and may exchange matter or energy with the environment. Neither closed nor open systems inherently rely on thermal inertia for heat transfer like passive systems do.