Chapter 7: Work & Kinetic Energy

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from Chapter 7 on Work and Kinetic Energy, providing definitions to aid in understanding the material.

Work

The transfer of energy that occurs when a force is applied over a displacement.

Kinetic Energy

The energy possessed by an object due to its motion, calculated as K = (1/2) * m * v^2.

Work-Energy Theorem

The principle stating that the net work done on a particle equals the change in its kinetic energy: W_net = ∆K.

Power

The rate at which work is done or energy is transferred, defined as P = W / ∆t.

Constant Force Work Equation

The equation used to calculate work done by a constant force: W = F * ∆r * cos(θ).

Sign Convention for Work

If force and displacement are in the same direction, W > 0; opposite directions, W < 0; perpendicular, W = 0.

Work Done by Gravity

The work done by gravitational force during vertical displacement, calculated as W_g = (mg) * ∆y.

Work by Kinetic Friction

The work done by kinetic friction over a distance, calculated as Wf = − µk * N * s.

Spring Force Equation

The spring force is defined by Hooke’s Law: F_s(x) = − k * x.

Average Power

The average power is defined as P_avg = W / ∆t.

Instantaneous Power

The instantaneous power is defined as P = dW/dt.

Joule

Unit of energy, equivalent to one newton·meter or kg·m^2/s^2.

Hooke’s Law

A principle that states the force exerted by a spring is proportional to the displacement from its equilibrium position.