Conservative force

Definition

A conservative force is a force with the property that the work done in moving an object between two points is independent of the path taken. The mechanical energy (kinetic + potential) in a system influenced only by conservative forces remains constant.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The work done by a conservative force around any closed path is zero.
2. Examples of conservative forces include gravitational and electrostatic forces.
3. Potential energy can be defined for systems acted upon by conservative forces.
4. Mechanical energy conservation occurs only when all acting forces are conservative.
5. The concept of a potential function $U(x)$ is directly related to conservative forces, where $F = -\nabla U$.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes a conservative force from a non-conservative force?
• How does the potential energy function relate to conservative forces?
• Give an example of a situation where mechanical energy is conserved due to the presence of only conservative forces.

Related terms

Potential Energy: The energy stored in an object due to its position relative to some reference point, often associated with conservative forces.

Non-Conservative Force: A force for which the work done depends on the path taken, such as friction or air resistance.

Mechanical Energy: The sum of kinetic and potential energy in a system; conserved in systems with only conservative forces.