Kinetic Energy & Force: Classical Physics

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between kinetic energy and force within the context of classical physics. Participants explore fundamental concepts, definitions, and potential applications, while also addressing the dimensional differences between the relevant equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes the equations for force (f=ma) and kinetic energy (k=mv²/2) appear different dimensionally, suggesting a distinction between the two concepts.
  • Another participant asserts that a force must be exerted on a body for it to gain or increase its kinetic energy, illustrating the relationship through the work-energy principle.
  • A participant questions the relevance of using gases as an example for kinetic energy, suggesting that understanding statistical thermodynamics is necessary for such discussions.
  • There is a proposal to use simpler examples, such as marbles on slides or rails, to test concepts like acceleration and energy.
  • One participant expresses a desire for guidance on productive activities to better grasp the concepts discussed, indicating a need for foundational understanding before tackling more complex scenarios.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of starting with basic formulas and simple models to avoid confusion and ensure a solid grasp of the material.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants exhibit differing views on the similarity of the equations for force and kinetic energy, with some asserting they are fundamentally different. There is no consensus on the best examples to illustrate these concepts, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the appropriate complexity of examples used.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the relationship between kinetic energy and force, particularly in the context of gases and statistical thermodynamics. The discussion reflects varying levels of understanding among participants, with suggestions for simplifying examples to aid comprehension.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students studying classical physics, particularly those interested in the foundational concepts of force and kinetic energy, as well as those seeking guidance on effective learning strategies in physics.

pyreof88
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Im studying fumdamental concepts & looking at the relationship between kinetic energy & force. The ewuations seem similar, f=ma & k=mv²/2. Any input on the definition of these to fundamental concepts & there relationship would be helpful.
 
pyreof88 said:
Im studying fumdamental concepts & looking at the relationship between kinetic energy & force. The ewuations seem similar, f=ma & k=mv²/2. Any input on the definition of these to fundamental concepts & there relationship would be helpful.

I don't think they look similar at all. They are certainly different dimensionally.

If you apply a force F on a mass m, over a distance x, then the amount of work done by that force will be equal to INCREASE in the kinetic energy of the mass. That is a simple illustration of the relationship between "force" and "kinetic energy".

Zz.
 
Ok, so can i say it is required that a force be exerted on a body on order for it to gain or increase in its kinetic energy?
 
ZapperZ said:
I don't think they look similar at all. They are certainly different dimensionally.

If you apply a force F on a mass m, over a distance x, then the amount of work done by that force will be equal to INCREASE in the kinetic energy of the mass. That is a simple illustration of the relationship between "force" and "kinetic energy".

Zz.

Left you a line. New to this, so i will excise myself now.
 
ZapperZ said:
I don't think they look similar at all. They are certainly different dimensionally.

If you apply a force F on a mass m, over a distance x, then the amount of work done by that force will be equal to INCREASE in the kinetic energy of the mass. That is a simple illustration of the relationship between "force" and "kinetic energy".

Zz.

Also, if i may inquire for greater understanding, let's consider the physical phenomena of gases that have undergone combustion.
Is it accurate to say, regarding the kinetic energy of these combusted gases, that in the formula k=mv²/2, that the variable m represents the mass of the gas(es), v² equals the square of the velocity of the gas(es), and the variable k is the total kinetic energy of the combusted gas. k, according to the case presented would be of a spontaneous value right? Meaning a total value for a given point on time?
 
pyreof88 said:
Also, if i may inquire for greater understanding, let's consider the physical phenomena of gases that have undergone combustion.
Is it accurate to say, regarding the kinetic energy of these combusted gases, that in the formula k=mv²/2, that the variable m represents the mass of the gas(es), v² equals the square of the velocity of the gas(es), and the variable k is the total kinetic energy of the combusted gas. k, according to the case presented would be of a spontaneous value right? Meaning a total value for a given point on time?

I have no idea how this relates to your original question.

I think you should not use "gases" as your example, because a gas requires the understanding of the statistical nature of the system, something which I think you still do not grasp yet, i.e. have you learned statistical thermodynamics?. Try to use something simpler! What about the example I gave you? Did you understand that?

Zz.
 
ZapperZ said:
I have no idea how this relates to your original question.

I think you should not use "gases" as your example, because a gas requires the understanding of the statistical nature of the system, something which I think you still do not grasp yet, i.e. have you learned statistical thermodynamics?. Try to use something simpler! What about the example I gave you? Did you understand that?

Zz.

Yes, but you didnt look at my feedback which verified at least a vague understanding. Kinetic energy is that of a body in motion, this body, given proper circumstances, can exert a force on another body, thus transfering some or all of its kinetic energy.
 
ZapperZ said:
I have no idea how this relates to your original question.

I think you should not use "gases" as your example, because a gas requires the understanding of the statistical nature of the system, something which I think you still do not grasp yet, i.e. have you learned statistical thermodynamics?. Try to use something simpler! What about the example I gave you? Did you understand that?

Zz.

What about marbles on slides/rails? I could test acceleration, kinetic energy, gravitational potential energy & force.
 
  • #10
pyreof88 said:
What about marbles on slides/rails? I could test acceleration, kinetic energy, gravitational potential energy & force.

Only if you have learned about rotational energy.

Is there a reason for turning this into a circus?

Zz.
 
  • #11
ZapperZ said:
Only if you have learned about rotational energy.

Is there a reason for turning this into a circus?

Zz.

Sorry Zapper, please bear with a student & not be insulting. It would be better if you could advise me of some productive activities that could aid me in the grasping of these concepts; being that you are so much more enlightened.
 
  • #12
pyreof88 said:
Sorry Zapper, please bear with a student & not be insulting. It would be better if you could advise me of some productive activities that could aid me in the grasping of these concepts; being that you are so much more enlightened.

I see where ZZ is coming from. If you want to advance in these things you need to get as simple as possible and not keep adding complication. To get a grasp, you should start with the very few basic formulae and then, if you want to verify them experimentally, it's essential to use the simplest possible models. If you don't do it that way you end up on a divergent path getting nowhere.

Google simple dynamics experiments or terms like that, if you want some ideas. You can then choose something to suit you.
 
  • #13
sophiecentaur said:
I see where ZZ is coming from. If you want to advance in these things you need to get as simple as possible and not keep adding complication. To get a grasp, you should start with the very few basic formulae and then, if you want to verify them experimentally, it's essential to use the simplest possible models. If you don't do it that way you end up on a divergent path getting nowhere.

Google simple dynamics experiments or terms like that, if you want some ideas. You can then choose something to suit you.

Thanks, its 'doin me' from here.
 
  • #14
pyreof88 said:
Thanks, its 'doin me' from here.

Is that good? :smile:
 
  • #15
sophiecentaur said:
Is that good? :smile:

I found a decent textbook to give my studying some discipline. Thanks both of you for the feedback, its been disciplining.
 

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