Law of Conservation of Mechanical Energy

Definition

The Law of Conservation of Mechanical Energy states that within an isolated system (where no external forces act), the total mechanical energy remains constant. Mechanical energy is the sum of an object's kinetic energy and potential energy.

Analogy

Imagine a roller coaster ride with no friction or air resistance. The Law of Conservation of Mechanical Energy would be like knowing that the total amount of energy (kinetic + potential) your car has at any point on the track will always stay the same, regardless of its position.

Related terms

Kinetic Energy: It refers to the energy possessed by an object due to its motion.

Potential Energy: Potential energy is stored energy that an object possesses based on its position or condition.

Work-Energy Theorem: This theorem states that the work done on an object is equal to the change in its kinetic energy. It relates force, displacement, and energy.