Conservative Principle and Linear Momentum

Flashcards covering the key concepts of conservative principles, conservative forces, and the conservation of linear momentum as discussed in the lecture.

What is a conservative force?

A force is conservative if the work done by it on an object moving between two points depends only on the initial and final positions, not on the path taken.

What are the examples of conservative forces?

Gravitational force, electrostatic force, and spring force are examples of conservative forces.

What is the conservation of linear momentum?

The total linear momentum in an isolated system remains constant unless acted upon by external forces.

How is linear momentum defined?

Linear momentum p of a particle is defined as p=mv, where m is mass and v is velocity.

What distinguishes elastic collisions from inelastic collisions?

In elastic collisions, both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved, while inelastic collisions conserve momentum but not kinetic energy.

What is the work-energy theorem in relation to conservative forces?

For conservative forces, the work done is equal to the negative change in potential energy: W=-ΔV.

What happens to total mechanical energy in an isolated system under conservative forces?

The total mechanical energy E=K+V (kinetic + potential) is conserved.

What is the significance of the coefficient of restitution?

The coefficient of restitution e is the ratio of the relative velocity of separation to the relative velocity of approach before collision.

What role does momentum conservation play in rocket propulsion?

In rocket propulsion, momentum conservation applies to the exhaust gases and the rocket, as they exert equal and opposite forces.

What is the impact of non-conservative forces on energy?

Non-conservative forces, like friction, dissipate energy as heat, violating the path independence of work.