Recent content by wheels123

Clearly, the concept of energy is a useful part of Classical Mechanics. In particular, systems with many particles (like bouncy balls and carjacks) are often so complex that analysis with Newton's Laws is very difficult, perhaps even impossible. But to me an important question is: Is the...

Thanks to brainpushups and Dr.Courtney for pointing me to the Physical Origin of Torque article. I'm still digesting that article, but it convinces me that you can indeed derive the lever principle from Newton's Laws, without mentioning energy or torque. Of course, you cannot assume a...

Thanks to all for interesting feedback. I'm not surprised that the bigger question - Are the concepts of energy and torque necessary in Classical Mechanics? - captured your attention. I've pondered that for a long time. Regarding the more specific lever question, the solution posted by Philip...

I have always thought that all of "Classical Mechanics" can be explained with Newton's Laws and a few force equations (e.g., gravitational and Coulomb). In particular, the concepts of energy and torque are convenient but not necessary. If this is true, then can you explain with Newton's Laws -...