Chapter 7.2
Work and energy
What You'll Learn
Calculate work as the change in kinetic and potential energy of an object
Apply the work-energy theorem to solve for unknown forces and displacements
Recognize when energy is conserved versus when work is done by external forces
Determine the component of force parallel to displacement for angled forces
Identify positive work (adding energy) versus negative work (removing energy)
What You'll Practice
1
Finding work required to accelerate vehicles from one speed to another
2
Calculating friction force from energy loss over a given distance
3
Breaking angled forces into components to find work done
4
Solving slope problems with friction using energy methods
Why This Matters
Understanding work and energy is essential for analyzing real-world motion, from car engines and braking systems to roller coasters and sports. This concept connects force, motion, and energy transfer, forming the foundation for mechanics in physics and engineering courses.
This Unit Includes
4 Video lessons
Skills
Work-Energy Theorem
Kinetic Energy
Potential Energy
Force Components
Friction
Energy Conservation
Trigonometry
