Energy and Conservation Principles

This page delves into various forms of energy and the principle of conservation of mechanical energy. It covers:

1. Kinetic Energy (Ec): The formula for kinetic energy is presented as Ec = ½ × m × v².

Vocabulary: Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion.

2. Theorem of Kinetic Energy: ΔEc(AB) = Ec(B) - Ec(A) = Σ W_AB(F)

This theorem relates the change in kinetic energy to the work done by all forces acting on the object.

3. Gravitational Potential Energy (Epp): The formula for gravitational potential energy is given as Epp = m × g × z.

Definition: Gravitational potential energy is the energy an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field.

4. Mechanical Energy (Em) and Conservation: Mechanical energy is defined as the sum of kinetic and potential energies: Em = Ec + Epp

The principe de conservation de l'énergie mécanique (principle of conservation of mechanical energy) is introduced:

• If the sum of work done by non-conservative forces is zero, mechanical energy is conserved (Em = constant).
• If non-conservative forces do work, mechanical energy is not conserved.

Highlight: The conservation of mechanical energy is a fundamental principle in physics, applicable when only conservative forces are present.

This page provides a comprehensive overview of energy concepts, laying the groundwork for understanding more complex mechanical systems and energy transformations.