Conservation of Energy and Work Energy Theorem

A set of flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts from the Conservation of Energy and Work Energy Theorem lecture.

Work Energy Theorem

The change in mechanical energy between two states is equal to the work done on the system.

Kinetic Energy (KE)

Energy that a body possesses due to its motion, calculated as KE = 1/2 mv².

Potential Energy (PE)

Energy stored due to an object's position in a gravitational field, calculated as PE = mgh.

Joule (J)

The SI unit of work and energy, defined as the work done when a force of one newton displaces an object by one meter.

Conservative Process

A process where the total mechanical energy remains constant; initial and final energies are equal.

Nonconservative Process

A process where energy is lost to surroundings, often due to friction or other forms of resistance.

Newton's Laws of Motion

Three fundamental laws describing the relationship between the motion of an object and the forces acting on it.

Work

Defined as the product of force and distance in the direction of the force, calculated using W = F * d cos(θ).

Frictional Force

The force resisting the relative motion of solid surfaces, fluid layers, or material elements sliding against each other.

Mechanical Energy

The sum of kinetic and potential energy in a system.

Heat Transfer (Q)

The movement of thermal energy from one object or material to another, important in sizing energy exchanges.

Average Friction Force

The mean force due to friction acting over the distance of motion, often estimated when calculating energy loss.

State Table

A table documenting the energy status of a system at discrete points in time, specifying positions, velocities, and energy terms.

Process Table

A table describing the exchange of energy, work, and heat as a system transitions between different states.

Total Energy (E)

The combined kinetic and potential energy of a system at a particular state.