Physics 1111: Extended Work-Energy

This set of flashcards covers key concepts and terms related to the Work-Energy unit in Physics 1111, including definitions and important theorems.

Kinetic Energy

Energy possessed by an object due to its motion, calculated as 1/2 mv².

Potential Energy

Energy stored in an object due to its position or configuration, commonly expressed as gravitational potential energy (Ug = mgy).

Work-Energy Theorem

The principle that the work done on an object is equal to the change in its kinetic energy (W = ΔK).

Conservative Forces

Forces for which the work done does not depend on the path taken; examples include gravity and spring forces.

Non-Conservative Forces

Forces that do depend on the path taken, such as friction; they result in energy dissipation.

Extended Work-Energy Theorem

States that work done by non-conservative forces equals the change in total mechanical energy of the system.

Mechanical Energy

The sum of kinetic energy (K) and potential energy (U) in a system.

Frictionless

A condition where no frictional forces oppose the motion of an object.

Conservation of Mechanical Energy

A principle stating that in the absence of non-conservative forces, the total mechanical energy remains constant.

Coefficient of Kinetic Friction

A ratio that represents the frictional force between two moving surfaces, denoted as μk.