What is Mechanical Energy?

Mechanical energy is the energy possessed by an object due to its motion or position. It is the sum of the kinetic energy and potential energy of an object.

Kinetic Energy

Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion. The formula for kinetic energy is:

KE = (1/2) * m * v²

Where:

• KE = kinetic energy
• m = mass of the object
• v = velocity of the object

Potential Energy

Potential energy is the energy an object possesses due to its position or condition. There are different types of potential energy, including gravitational potential energy and elastic potential energy.

Gravitational Potential Energy

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

PE = m * g * h

Where:

• PE = gravitational potential energy
• m = mass of the object
• g = acceleration due to gravity
• h = height of the object

Elastic Potential Energy

Elastic potential energy is the energy stored in an object when it is compressed or stretched. The formula for elastic potential energy is:

PE = (1/2) * k * x²

Where:

• PE = elastic potential energy
• k = spring constant
• x = displacement from the equilibrium position

Conservation of Mechanical Energy

According to the law of conservation of energy, mechanical energy is conserved in the absence of non-conservative forces such as friction or air resistance. This means that the total mechanical energy of an object remains constant as long as only conservative forces are acting on it.

Applications of Mechanical Energy

Mechanical energy has numerous applications in everyday life, including in the operation of machines, transportation systems, and the generation of electricity through hydropower and wind power.