Final answer:
The insulated container with an ice pack and cola can where energy is transferred internally constitutes a closed system because it can exchange energy but not matter with the surroundings, adhering to the conservation of energy principle.
Step-by-step explanation:
An insulated container that holds an ice pack and a room temperature cola can, where energy can be exchanged within the can, ice pack, and the container but not with the surroundings, is described as a closed system. The definition of a closed system is one that can exchange energy but not matter with its surroundings. Therefore, in the scenario provided, where the system is sealed and insulated, no matter escapes or enters the system, but energy can be transferred among the cola can, ice pack, and the inside of the container. However, there is no exchange of energy with the external environment, making it a closed system.
This concept goes hand in hand with the conservation of energy, which states that the total energy within the closed system must remain constant. In the case of the refrigerator or freezer with the door closed, internal heat is transferred via the refrigerator's cycle to maintain a low temperature, but no matter or energy enters or exits until the door is opened, also exemplifying a closed system during that closed-door period.