Mechanical energy

Definition

Mechanical energy is the sum of kinetic energy and potential energy in an object that is used to do work. It is conserved in a system where only conservative forces are acting.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mechanical energy can be either kinetic (due to motion) or potential (due to position).
2. In the absence of non-conservative forces like friction, mechanical energy is conserved.
3. Kinetic energy is given by $\frac{1}{2}mv^2$ where $m$ is mass and $v$ is velocity.
4. Potential energy in a gravitational field is given by $mgh$, where $m$ is mass, $g$ is acceleration due to gravity, and $h$ is height.
5. Mechanical energy plays a crucial role in understanding the dynamics of systems involving conservative forces.

Review Questions

• What are the two forms of mechanical energy?
• How do you calculate kinetic and potential energy?
• Under what conditions is mechanical energy conserved?

Related terms

Kinetic Energy:

The energy possessed by an object due to its motion, calculated as $\frac{1}{2}mv^2$.

Potential Energy:

The stored energy of an object due to its position or state, commonly calculated as $mgh$ for gravitational potential energy.

Conservative Forces:

Forces that do not dissipate mechanical energy; examples include gravitational and electrostatic forces.