The field of physics describes mechanical energy as the summation of the potential and kinetic energies in a system. Combining these two energies means that the aspects of motion and position of an object are key. A fitting representation of mechanical energy is when both gravitational and spring forces are present. The principle of conservation of mechanical energy is one of the main areas of study relating to the dynamisms of mechanical energy (Boston University 2014).
The Conservation of Mechanical Energy
The principle of the conservation of mechanical energy holds that the amount of mechanical energy in a system remains invariable as long as the sole forces in effect are conservative forces. These conservative forces are those that do not alter the total mechanical energy. When an object is thrown straight up, it already possesses some form of kinetic energy but gradually loses it as potential energy surges. At the top, it has no kinetic energy, but its potential energy will be equal to its initial kinetic energy at the bottom. The kinetic energy when it reaches the bottom will be equal to its initial kinetic energy when it left the ground. The sum of the kinetic and potential energy is equal all along the object’s path (Boston University 2014).
Although it all sounds very flawless, there are various forces that act on such an object that makes sure that the principle is a bit more complex. For instance, kinetic friction is a non-conservative force that’s influences the mechanical energy in a system. The principle is enforced where only conservative forces are involved. Non-conservative forces in many cases influence the application of mechanical forces. The example provided of kinetic friction reduces mechanical energy but other non-conservative forces such as those from motors and engines can increase the aggregate mechanical energy (Boston University 2014).
Applications
The principle of conservation of mechanical energy is widely utilized in various situations such as on rollercoasters that only utilize the principle to function. With the realization of the friction that the train will receive, it is possible to construct a rollercoaster that only utilizes the balance of kinetic and potential energies to function. There are also other well-known applications of the principle of conservation of mechanical energy.
Satellites
Although the specifics that make satellites to orbit the earth are a bit more complex, the underlying factor is that of conservation of mechanical energy. Such satellites are solely affected by gravity that is a conservative force, and hence conserves the mechanical energy. Satellites are accelerated towards the earth with a spurt perpendicular to the speed. The most likely concept that can bring an understanding of the principle in question with satellites over earth is that the satellites possess kinetic energy as they go round the earth, as well as gravitational potential energy (Wilczek 2008).
A Swinging Pendulum
A more basic phenomena that can expound on the conservation of mechanical energy is a swinging pendulum. The conservative gravitational force allows for the transformation of kinetic and potential energies back and forth without leaving the system. However, other forces such as air drag and friction at the pivot have to be negligible. The pendulum attains the greatest and lowest potential energy in the vertical stance. It acquires the least kinetic energy and utmost potential energy when at the extreme stances of the swing since it is stationary and is also furthest from the earth’s center (Wilczek 2008).
Boston University. The conservation of mechanical energy. 2014. Online. 23 June 2014.
Wilczek, Frank. Conservation laws (physics). AccessScience. McGraw-Hill Companies. 2008. Print.