The su(2)-algebraic model interacting with an environment is investigated f
rom the viewpoint of treating a dissipative system. By using a time-depende
nt variational approach with a coherent state and with the help of the cano
nicity condition, the time-evolution of this quantum many-body system is de
scribed in terms of the canonical equations of motion in the classical mech
anics. Then, it is shown that the su(1, 1)-algebra plays an essential role
in treating this model. An exact solution with appropriate initial conditio
ns is obtained in terms of Jacobi's elliptic function. The implications for
the dissipative process are discussed.