PDA

View Full Version : Non-conservaite force and Kinetic Energy


Oliviam12
Oct24-07, 12:03 PM
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
True/False If a non-conservative force acts on an object, its kinetic energy must increase.


2. Relevant equations
?

3. The attempt at a solution
I don't really understand the question, especially the part about a non-conservative force? I thought all forces were conserved, or am I confusing that with something else? However, I think the answer might be True but, the only reasoning behing that is that kinetic energy seems like it would increase over any force...

D H
Oct24-07, 12:28 PM
Forces aren't conserved. Conserved quantities in classical physics include mass, energy, linear momentum, and angular momentum. What does your text say about nonconservative forces? What is a good example of a nonconservative force?

Oliviam12
Oct24-07, 01:09 PM
I don't really have a text yet... I am taking the class online and the online e-text is incompleate and unhelpful (I ordered a recommended book and it should be in within the week.) But, the only mention of nonconservative forces is "The work done by a nonconservative force depends on the path through which the force acts." and I read online that an example of a nonconservative force is friction.

Oliviam12
Oct24-07, 01:35 PM
Never mind, I just happened upon it online. Thanks anyway!