Work and Mechanical Energy

Vocabulary flashcards covering core physics concepts including work, energy, units of measurement, and types of potential energy.

Work (Physics Definition)

Occurs when a force causes an object to move, defined mathematically as $Work = force \times distance$.

Newton ($N$)

The unit of measurement for force.

Meter ($m$)

The unit of measurement for distance.

Joule ($J$)

The unit of measurement for work and energy, where $1\text{ Joule} = 1\text{ Newton} \times \text{meter}$ ($1\text{ } N \times m$).

Energy

The ability to do work or cause physical change.

Potential Energy

Energy based on an object's position or height.

Elastic Potential Energy

Energy stored through stretch and compression.

Chemical Potential Energy

Energy stored in molecules and food.