Mechanical Energy: Conservation & Example

Thread starter physics333
Start date Nov 23, 2003
Tags

Energy Mechanical Mechanical energy

In summary, mechanical energy is the combination of kinetic energy and potential energy in an object. It is conserved according to the law of conservation of energy, meaning that the total amount of mechanical energy in a closed system remains constant. This can be seen in examples such as a swinging pendulum and the relationship between mechanical energy and work. In real-world applications, mechanical energy conservation is evident in roller coasters, wind turbines, and spring-loaded toys.

Nov 23, 2003

physics333

Is mechanical energy always conserved? Explain how this does not violate the law of conservation of energy by an example.

Last edited: Nov 23, 2003

Physics news on Phys.org

Nov 23, 2003

Greg Bernhardt

Admin

Insights Author

check out this article:
http://physicspost.com/articles.php?articleId=178

Last edited: May 1, 2017

1. What is mechanical energy?

Mechanical energy is the sum of kinetic energy and potential energy in an object. Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion, while potential energy is the energy an object has due to its position or state.

2. How is mechanical energy conserved?

According to the law of conservation of energy, mechanical energy is always conserved in a closed system. This means that the total amount of mechanical energy in the system remains constant, even though it may change forms or be transferred between different objects within the system.

3. Can you give an example of mechanical energy conservation?

One example of mechanical energy conservation is a pendulum. As the pendulum swings back and forth, it exchanges kinetic energy and potential energy. However, the total amount of mechanical energy in the system remains constant, and the pendulum will continue to swing at the same height and speed until an external force, such as friction, acts upon it.

4. How does mechanical energy relate to work?

Mechanical energy is closely related to work, as work is defined as the transfer of energy through the application of force. In order for work to be done, there must be a transfer of mechanical energy, either from one object to another or between different forms of mechanical energy.

5. What are some real-world applications of mechanical energy conservation?

Mechanical energy conservation has many real-world applications, such as in roller coasters, where the potential energy gained at the top of a hill is converted into kinetic energy as the roller coaster travels down the track. Other examples include wind turbines, where the kinetic energy of wind is converted into mechanical energy to generate electricity, and spring-loaded toys, where potential energy stored in a compressed spring is converted into kinetic energy when the toy is released.