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Total Energy Formula:
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The Total Energy Formula in physics represents the sum of kinetic energy and potential energy in a mechanical system. This fundamental principle states that the total mechanical energy (E) equals kinetic energy (KE) plus potential energy (PE), describing energy conservation in closed systems.
The calculator uses the total energy equation:
Where:
Explanation: This formula represents the conservation of mechanical energy in systems where only conservative forces act. The total energy remains constant unless external forces do work on the system.
Details: Calculating total mechanical energy is essential for understanding energy conservation, analyzing mechanical systems, solving physics problems involving motion and position, and predicting system behavior in various physical scenarios.
Tips: Enter kinetic energy and potential energy values in joules. Both values must be non-negative. The calculator will compute the total mechanical energy by summing the two input values.
Q1: What is the difference between kinetic and potential energy?
A: Kinetic energy is energy of motion (\( KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2 \)), while potential energy is stored energy due to position or configuration (\( PE = mgh \) for gravitational potential energy).
Q2: When is total mechanical energy conserved?
A: Total mechanical energy is conserved in closed systems where only conservative forces act and no energy is converted to other forms like heat or sound.
Q3: Can total energy be negative?
A: In classical mechanics, total mechanical energy is typically positive, but in some physics contexts (like orbital mechanics), total energy can be negative, indicating bound systems.
Q4: What are common units for energy?
A: The SI unit is joules (J), but other units include calories, electronvolts, and kilowatt-hours, depending on the context.
Q5: How does this relate to the work-energy theorem?
A: The work-energy theorem states that work done on a system equals its change in kinetic energy, while total energy conservation considers both kinetic and potential energy changes.