Definition of Energy: Principle of Conservation of Energy

In summary: It is a fundamental quantity in physics and can be transformed from one form to another, but cannot be created or destroyed. The Principle of Conservation of Energy states that the total energy in a closed system remains constant. This means that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only converted from one form to another. The ability to do work is a result of energy being transformed or transferred, usually through the application of a force. However, the definition of energy is still debated and can be complex, as evidenced by discussions about the "E" in e=mc2 and the concept of "mystic energy." Ultimately, energy is a crucial concept in understanding the physical world and its behavior. In summary, energy is a fundamental quantity that represents the potential ability
  • #1
Hyperreality
202
0
Is there an universal and complete definition for energy? Or has energy already being defined by the Principle of Conservation of Energy?

Energy cannot be created nor destroyed

We know that energy can be transformed from one form to another, but a force has to be applied to change the form of energy. e.g. When a man lifts a brick, the chemical energy possessed by the man is transformed into potential energy, and the transformation is caused by the force applied on the brick exerted by the man.

I am confused of which comes, because neither force or energy can exist beforehand of one another. (Energy transfoms to other forms because of force, but the existence force and its magnitude is also dependent on the amount of energy).
 
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  • #2
Energy is the ability to do work.
 
  • #3
Energy is the ability to do work.

Yes. But gives energy the ability to do work?
 
  • #4
Originally posted by Hyperreality
Yes. But gives energy the ability to do work?

its definiton i think
but really, energy doesn't have the ability to do work, it is the ability to do work.
 
  • #5
I've also had trouble with the definition of energy. What about the "E" in e=mc2?
and mystic energy (i never understood that; my mind is polluted with the energy in physics!)
 
  • #6
Greetings !
Originally posted by Hyperreality
Is there an universal and complete definition for energy?
Yep. It's a parameter used in physical
equations... :wink:
(Or like some one here said - the measure of the
ability to do work.)

Live long and prosper.
 
  • #7
Like you want to do some work, say, to lift a stone, and you find it takes effort. This is caveman physics.

More advanced. You multiply the mass of the stone by the distance it was lifted. This gives you a measure of the work required. Then you conceive that in doing the work you expended some quantity of something. Call that something energy, and the quantity of energy expended is set exactly equal to the amount of work done. This is Renaissance physics.

Once you have the idea of energy as what you have to expend in order to do work, you can do all sorts of things with it. You can talk about relativistic energy and quantum energy and the law of conservation of (mass&) energy.
 
  • #8
Energy is equivalent to accelerating a mass over a distance, or the potential ability to do so.
 

What is the definition of energy?

Energy is the ability to do work or cause change. It comes in many forms, such as heat, light, sound, and motion.

What is the Principle of Conservation of Energy?

The Principle of Conservation of Energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another. This means that the total amount of energy in a closed system remains constant.

How does the Principle of Conservation of Energy apply to everyday life?

The Principle of Conservation of Energy can be seen in everyday life in various ways. For example, when we turn on a light bulb, electrical energy is converted into light energy. Similarly, when we burn fuel in a car, chemical energy is converted into kinetic energy to move the car.

What are some examples of energy transformation?

Energy transformation occurs when energy changes from one form to another. Some common examples include: - Solar energy being converted into electrical energy through solar panels- Chemical energy being converted into thermal energy when cooking food- Mechanical energy being converted into electrical energy in a power plant

Why is the Principle of Conservation of Energy important in science?

The Principle of Conservation of Energy is important in science because it helps us understand and predict the behavior of energy in various systems. By understanding that energy cannot be created or destroyed, we can make accurate calculations and predictions about energy usage and efficiency. It also allows us to develop sustainable energy sources and technologies.

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