Conservative and non-conservative systems

  • Thread starter Thread starter mpkannan
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Systems
AI Thread Summary
In conservative systems, potential energy (V) is solely a function of position (q), expressed as V = V(q). However, when these systems interact with radiation, the potential energy becomes time-dependent, represented as V = V(q,t). This raises the question of whether such time-dependent potential energy indicates a non-conservative system. The discussion also touches on the Hamiltonian and Hamiltonian equations of motion, which are relevant to understanding these systems. The relationship between potential energy and system conservativeness is a key focus in the analysis.
mpkannan
Messages
15
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



The potential energy (V) of a conservative system is a function of position (q) only. Thus, V = V(q) for any conservative system.

When a conservative system interacts with radiation (spectroscopy), then the PE of the system depends explicitly on time (t) also: V = V(q,t).

Is the latter system a non-conservative system? Is V = V(q,t) characteristic of a non-conservative system, just like V = V(q) is characteristic of a conservative system?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


 
Physics news on Phys.org
Do you know what a hamiltonian is and what the hamiltonian equations of motion are?
 
Thread 'Collision of a bullet on a rod-string system: query'

Thread 'Collision of a bullet on a rod-string system: query'

In this question, I have a question. I am NOT trying to solve it, but it is just a conceptual question. Consider the point on the rod, which connects the string and the rod. My question: just before and after the collision, is ANGULAR momentum CONSERVED about this point? Lets call the point which connects the string and rod as P. Why am I asking this? : it is clear from the scenario that the point of concern, which connects the string and the rod, moves in a circular path due to the string...
View full post »

Similar threads

Is energy conserved is this problem?
Replies
44
Views
3K
Is the Total Energy Change in a Closed System Always Zero?
Replies
8
Views
885
Masses colliding due to gravitational attraction
Replies
2
Views
2K
Rolling without slipping problem
Replies
42
Views
3K
Is potential energy defined only for internal conservative forces?
Replies
15
Views
1K
Conservation of Momentum Problem - Mechanical and Kinetic Energies
Replies
2
Views
890
Temperature of two subsystems at equilibrium
Replies
7
Views
893
IPHO classical mechanics: A mass falls on an exoplanet
Replies
2
Views
790
Proving that the total mechanical energy is conserved with time
Replies
2
Views
2K
Time dependant Potential Energy in ion trap
Replies
1
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top