Conservation of Mechanical Energy

Front

What is the principle of Conservation of Mechanical Energy?

Back

The principle states that in a closed system, the total mechanical energy (kinetic + potential) remains constant if only conservative forces are acting.

Front

Define Kinetic Energy.

Back

Kinetic Energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion, calculated as KE = 1/2 mv², where m is mass and v is velocity.

Front

Define Potential Energy.

Back

Potential Energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or configuration, commonly gravitational potential energy, calculated as PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is acceleration due to gravity, and h is height.

Front

What happens to Potential Energy as an object falls?

Back

As an object falls, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases, keeping the total mechanical energy constant.

Front

What is the total mechanical energy of an object?

Back

Total mechanical energy is the sum of an object's kinetic energy and potential energy.

Front

How does the height of an object affect its Potential Energy?

Back

The higher an object is, the greater its potential energy, as it is directly proportional to height (PE = mgh).

Front

What is the relationship between Kinetic Energy and speed?

Back

Kinetic energy increases with the square of the speed; if speed doubles, kinetic energy increases by a factor of four.

Front

At what point is Kinetic Energy maximum in a falling object?

Back

Kinetic energy is maximum just before the object hits the ground, as potential energy is at its minimum.

Front

What is an example of a system where Mechanical Energy is conserved?

Back

A roller coaster moving along a track without friction is an example where mechanical energy is conserved.

Front

What is the formula for calculating Mechanical Energy?

Back

Mechanical Energy (ME) = Kinetic Energy (KE) + Potential Energy (PE).