Physics and Math - Work and Energy

MCAT Chapter 2

Energy

Systems ability to do work

Kinetic Energy

energy of motion

Potential Energy

energy that is associated with a given objects position in space or other intrinsic qualities of the system

Gravitational Potential Energy

Depends on an objects position with respect to some level identified as ground

Total Mechanical Energy

Sum of object potential and kinetic energies

Conservation of mechanical energy

energy neither created nor destroyed, merely transferred one form to another

Conservative forces

path independent and do not dissipate energy

Work

process by which energy is transferred one system to another

Isochoric process

Process volume remains constant

Isobaric process

process where pressure remains constant

Power

rate at which energy is transferred one system to another

Mechanical Advantage

Ratio of magnitudes of force exerted on an object by simple machine to the force actually applied on a simple machine

Six simple machines

Wedge, wheel and axel, lever, pulley, screw