Conservation of kinetic energy

Definition

The conservation of kinetic energy states that the total amount of kinetic energy in a closed system remains constant if no external work or non-conservative forces are present. This means that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or transformed from one form to another.

Analogy

Think about riding your bike on flat ground without any wind resistance. As long as you don't pedal harder or brake, your speed will remain constant because your initial kinetic energy stays unchanged throughout the ride. It's like coasting along effortlessly while maintaining your speed.

Related terms

Potential Energy: Potential energy refers to stored energy that an object possesses due to its position or condition.

Mechanical Energy: Mechanical energy is the sum of potential and kinetic energies within a system.

Work-Energy Principle: The work-energy principle states that the work done on an object equals its change in mechanical energy.