1. What is Mechanical Energy?

Mechanical energy is the sum of kinetic energy and potential energy in a system. It represents the total energy associated with the motion and position of an object.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the mechanical energy equation:

Where:

• \( ME \) — Mechanical Energy (Joules)
• \( KE \) — Kinetic Energy (Joules)
• \( PE \) — Potential Energy (Joules)
• \( m \) — Mass (kg)
• \( v \) — Velocity (m/s)
• \( g \) — Gravity (9.8 m/s²)
• \( h \) — Height (m)

Explanation: The equation calculates the total mechanical energy by summing the energy due to motion (kinetic) and position (potential).

3. Importance of Mechanical Energy Calculation

Details: Mechanical energy calculations are fundamental in physics for analyzing conservation of energy, projectile motion, pendulum systems, and various mechanical systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mass in kilograms, velocity in meters per second, and height in meters. All values must be valid (mass > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the unit of mechanical energy?
A: Mechanical energy is measured in Joules (J) in the SI system.

Q2: Is mechanical energy conserved?
A: In conservative systems with no friction or air resistance, mechanical energy is conserved.

Q3: Can mechanical energy be negative?
A: While kinetic energy is always positive, potential energy can be negative depending on the reference point, making total mechanical energy potentially negative.

Q4: What's the difference between mechanical and thermal energy?
A: Mechanical energy involves motion and position, while thermal energy relates to the internal energy and temperature of a system.

Q5: How does friction affect mechanical energy?
A: Friction converts mechanical energy into thermal energy, reducing the total mechanical energy in non-conservative systems.