Kinetic , Potential and Total energy , Conservation of energy (Skate park)

Conservation of Energy Experiment – For Schools, Teachers, and Students

Definition

The principle of conservation of energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed; it can only change from one form to another. In a closed system, the total energy remains constant over time. This principle applies to all physical systems and is a fundamental concept in physics.

This concept is demonstrated in Dencity – Virtual lab and Simulations to enhance interactive learning.

Theory

In mechanics, the conservation of energy primarily involves the interplay between kinetic energy (K) and potential energy (U) in a system. The total mechanical energy (E_total) is the sum of these two forms of energy:

E_total = K + U

where:

• K = (1/2) m v² (Kinetic Energy)
• U = m g h (Gravitational Potential Energy)

Energy Conservation in a Frictionless System:

If there are no non-conservative forces (e.g., friction or air resistance), the mechanical energy is conserved:

K₁ + U₁ = K₂ + U₂

(1/2) m v₁² + m g h₁ = (1/2) m v₂² + m g h₂

Energy Conservation in the Presence of Non-Conservative Forces:

If friction or air resistance is present, the work done by these forces (W_nc) alters the total mechanical energy:

W_nc = ΔE_total = ΔK + ΔU

Examples of Conservation of Energy

1. Free Fall:
   • In the absence of air resistance, the potential energy lost by an object falling from a height is converted into kinetic energy:
     m g h₁ = (1/2) m v₂²
2. Pendulum Motion:
   • A pendulum alternates between kinetic and potential energy, while total mechanical energy remains constant:
     (1/2) m v² + m g h = constant
3. Spring System:
   • In a system involving a spring (elastic potential energy), energy conservation is given by:
     (1/2) m v² + (1/2) k x² = constant
     where k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement from equilibrium.

Real-World Applications

The conservation of energy principle is widely applied in:

• Roller Coasters: Potential energy at the highest point converts into kinetic energy at the lowest point.
• Pendulum Clocks: Kinetic and potential energy keep the pendulum oscillating.
• Projectile Motion: Energy conservation determines the maximum height and range of a projectile.
• Regenerative Braking in Vehicles: Captures kinetic energy during braking and converts it into usable electrical energy.
• Online Science Lab: Allows students to simulate energy conservation and understand its applications.

Observations and Key Learnings

• In an isolated system, mechanical energy is conserved if no external forces act.
• Non-conservative forces (e.g., friction) dissipate mechanical energy into heat, sound, or other forms.
• Kinetic energy increases as potential energy decreases, and vice versa, in gravitational systems.
• The conservation of energy applies universally, including in thermal, electrical, and nuclear systems beyond mechanics.

This conservation of energy experiment helps students understand how energy transforms between kinetic and potential forms while remaining constant in a closed system. In frictionless environments, mechanical energy is conserved, while non-conservative forces like friction dissipate energy as heat or sound.

With our physics app, students can learn physics online, explore energy conservation in real-world scenarios like roller coasters, pendulums, and spring systems. Our experiment app  makes learning more engaging, helping students visualize energy transfer in a dynamic and practical way.