Conserved Energy vs. Used Energy

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Conserving energy and momentum means that in a closed system, the total amount of energy or momentum remains constant, meaning no energy is gained or lost during processes. The term 'conserve' refers to maintaining or keeping energy within the system rather than using it up. The discussion highlights confusion around the definitions and implications of these conservation laws, particularly in relation to position and motion. Participants seek clarification on the concepts of energy and momentum, as well as their practical applications. Understanding these principles is essential for grasping fundamental physics concepts.
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Homework Statement


I do not understand what it means to conserve momentum, or conserve kinetic energy etc.


Homework Equations


the 'laws of conservation.'


The Attempt at a Solution


I think of the word 'conserve' as not using or saving. Please help me understand?
Thank you.
 
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'conserved' in the sense of 'to keep'
Energy is conserved means there is no energy gained or lost in the process.
 
Oh. So...position and/or motion...sorry...i'm still lost here...please help?
 
1irishman said:
Oh. So...position and/or motion...sorry...i'm still lost here...please help?

It's not really clear what you're asking. Can you clarify what you are still having difficulty with? Did you understand what was in mgb_phys's post?
 
What "energy" is gained or lost? Gained or lost from where? What is energy?
 
Thread 'Variable mass system : water sprayed into a moving container'

Thread 'Variable mass system : water sprayed into a moving container'

Starting with the mass considerations #m(t)# is mass of water #M_{c}# mass of container and #M(t)# mass of total system $$M(t) = M_{C} + m(t)$$ $$\Rightarrow \frac{dM(t)}{dt} = \frac{dm(t)}{dt}$$ $$P_i = Mv + u \, dm$$ $$P_f = (M + dm)(v + dv)$$ $$\Delta P = M \, dv + (v - u) \, dm$$ $$F = \frac{dP}{dt} = M \frac{dv}{dt} + (v - u) \frac{dm}{dt}$$ $$F = u \frac{dm}{dt} = \rho A u^2$$ from conservation of momentum , the cannon recoils with the same force which it applies. $$\quad \frac{dm}{dt}...
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