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Conservative Force

Definition

A conservative force is a type of force that conserves mechanical energy. The work done by a conservative force only depends on the initial and final positions of an object, not on the path taken.

Analogy

Imagine you are hiking up and down hills. When you reach the top of a hill and start going downhill, your potential energy decreases while your kinetic energy increases. The change in energy depends only on your starting and ending points, not on the specific route you took.

Related terms

Potential Energy: Potential energy is stored energy that an object possesses due to its position or condition. It can be converted into other forms of energy.

Work-Energy Theorem: The work-energy theorem states that the work done on an object is equal to its change in kinetic energy. This theorem helps relate forces acting on objects to their resulting motion.

Conservation of Energy: Conservation of energy is a fundamental principle stating that within an isolated system, total energy remains constant over time. Energy may change form but cannot be created or destroyed.