The discussion centers on the work-energy theorem, its mathematical formulation, and its implications in mechanics and other areas of physics. Participants explore the relationship between force, energy, and motion, particularly in the context of single and multiple degrees of freedom, as well as applications in electrodynamics.
Participants express a range of views on the relationship between the work-energy theorem and ##F=ma##, with some asserting their equivalence while others highlight distinctions. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of these relationships in educational contexts.
Limitations include the potential for misinterpretation of the work-energy theorem's independence from conservation laws and the assumptions underlying the definitions of potential energy and generalized forces.
This discussion may be of interest to students and educators in physics, researchers exploring the foundations of mechanics, and those studying the applications of energy concepts in various physical systems.
Sorry, just to be pedantic I would say "total external work" to highlight that the work of internal forces (Newton's 3rd pairs) is not included.Dale said:This is what I call “total work” to distinguish it from the “net work”. One difficulty is that different authors use different terminology.
I never deal with internal forces. So for me that is unnecessary.cianfa72 said:Sorry, just to be pedantic I would say "total external work" to highlight that the work of internal forces (Newton's 3rd pairs) is not included.