Is There an Equation for the Law of Conservation of Energy?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the existence of an equation for the law of conservation of energy, exploring its mathematical representations across different fields and contexts. Participants consider both theoretical and practical applications of the concept.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that there are various mathematical statements of the conservation of energy, which depend on the specific field of application.
  • One participant proposes a general equation, E_1 + E_2 + ... + E_n = C, suggesting that energy can transform between forms or objects while the total remains constant in an isolated system.
  • Another participant acknowledges the utility of energy conservation statements in solving numerous problems, indicating that such equations are commonly applied in practice.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that there are multiple mathematical representations of the conservation of energy, but the discussion does not reach a consensus on a singular equation or its universal applicability.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the dependence of energy conservation equations on specific contexts and fields, suggesting that assumptions may vary based on the scenario being analyzed.

50936
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Is there an equation for the law of conservation of energy?
 
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50936 said:
Is there an equation for the law of conservation of energy?
There are numerous mathematical statements of the concept of conservation of energy, depending on which field the concept is applied to.
 
How about
E_1+ E_2+ \cdot\cdot\cdot+ E_n= C
where E_1, E_2, E_n are all the different kinds of energy in a system and C is a constant? In other words, energy can change from one form to another or from one object to another but in a given isolated system the total remains constant.

I started that a little facetiously but we use "kinetic energy+ potential energy= constant" in simple problems all the time.
 
Only a little facetiously - there are lots and lots of problems that are solved by writing an energy conservation statement and solving it (or the similar sum of forces = 0).
 

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