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Write the gross star formation rate as $\psi =k{M}_g$, with $k>0$ constant. Use the instantaneous recycling approximation: a fraction $F$ returns promptly, while a fraction $1-F$ stays in long-lived stars and remnants. Assume $0\le F<1$, instantaneous mixing, and no galactic gas inflow or galactic outflow. If $M_s$ denotes the permanently locked stellar mass, mass conservation givesSet $\lambda =(1-F)k$. Integration, with $M_g(0)=M_0$, gives the exponential closed-box gas consumption lawThe locked mass is $M_s=M_0(1-e^{-\lambda t})$, so $M_g+M_s=M_0$ at every time. The decay time is $[(1-F)k{]}^{-1}$, longer than the gross gas-processing time $k^{-1}$ because returned gas can form subsequent generations. The formal $F=1$ limit retains all gas and locks no mass; a finite stellar yield defined per locked mass then needs separate treatment.