Relation between Potential Field, Force, Kinetic Energy and Abs.Energy

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between potential energy, force, kinetic energy, and work done in conservative systems. It establishes that the work done (W) is equal to the change in energy (ΔE), expressed mathematically as W = ∫xixf F dx = ΔE. The force (F) is defined as the negative gradient of potential energy (F = -∇U), leading to the conclusion that the change in potential energy (ΔU) is equal to the negative of work done (ΔU = -W). This relationship is crucial for understanding energy transformations in physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of conservative forces and their properties
  • Familiarity with calculus, specifically integration and gradients
  • Knowledge of potential energy concepts in physics
  • Basic principles of energy conservation
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  • Study the mathematical derivation of work-energy theorem
  • Learn about conservative and non-conservative forces in physics
  • Explore the concept of gradients in vector calculus
  • Investigate applications of potential energy in mechanical systems
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Students and professionals in physics, particularly those studying mechanics, as well as educators looking to clarify concepts related to energy and forces in conservative systems.

EEristavi
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Homework Statement
A single conservative force acts on a 5.00-kg particle
within a system due to its interaction with the rest of the
system. The equation Fx = 2x + 4 describes the force,
where Fx is in newtons and x is in meters. As the particle
moves along the x axis from x = 1.00 m to x = 5.00 m,
calculate (a) the work done by this force on the particle,
(b) the change in the potential energy of the system, and
(c) the kinetic energy the particle has at x 5 5.00 m if its
speed is 3.00 m/s at x 5 1.00 m.
Relevant Equations
W = ∫ F dx
F = -∇U
I understand that the work done is Change of Energy.
W = ∫xixf F dx = ΔEThe force is gradient of potential energy
F = -∇U (For conservative forces of course)

from here, we can say that change of potential energy is W:
ΔU = -W
but also
ΔU = -W = ΔE

I'm little bit lost here..
Can you help me understand this topic? where I make mistake?
 
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EEristavi said:
from here, we can say that change of potential energy is W:
ΔU = -W
Don't confuse the work done on the object by the conservative force with the work you need to do against the conservative force to lift the object.
 
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You r on right way
 

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