Conservation of Energy, thinking question

In summary, when a compressed spring in a vacuum is released, the energy stored in the spring is converted into kinetic energy and the velocity will not decrease due to the absence of friction. However, as the spring oscillates, internal resistances will dampen the vibration and convert the energy into heat.
  • #1
ninevolt
21
0
Since we all know that energy is conserved, it is converted from one form to another, I want to ask you what happens to the energy when a compressed spring, in a vacuum is released? Where does the energy go, does it simply become heat energy in the spring, or is it transferred another way?
 
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  • #2
I thinks the energy in the spring which equals 1/2kx^2 will transfer into a K.E which equals to 0.5mv^2, and the v will not decrease because we have no friction there.
 
  • #3
If it is released and oscillates, internal resistances will dampen the vibration and convert the energy to heat.
 

Related to Conservation of Energy, thinking question

1. What is conservation of energy?

The law of conservation of energy is a fundamental principle in physics that states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, but can only be transformed from one form to another.

2. How does conservation of energy apply to everyday life?

Conservation of energy applies to everyday life in many ways, such as when we use appliances or drive a car. The energy used is converted from one form to another, but the total amount of energy remains the same.

3. What is the significance of conservation of energy in environmental sustainability?

Conservation of energy is essential for environmental sustainability as it helps reduce the use of non-renewable resources and promotes the use of renewable energy sources. It also helps in reducing carbon emissions and mitigating the effects of climate change.

4. Can energy be completely conserved?

According to the law of conservation of energy, energy cannot be created or destroyed, but it can be transformed from one form to another. Therefore, energy can be conserved to a certain extent, but it cannot be completely conserved.

5. How does the principle of conservation of energy relate to the first and second laws of thermodynamics?

The first law of thermodynamics states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, while the second law states that energy tends to disperse or spread out unless work is done to keep it concentrated. Conservation of energy is a direct result of these laws and helps to explain the behavior of energy in various systems.

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