What is a Conservative System in Classical Mechanics?

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A conservative system in classical mechanics is characterized by the total energy remaining constant, which aligns with option b) from the initial query. However, the discussion raises the distinction between conservative systems and closed or isolated systems, suggesting that while a conservative system maintains total energy, it may not necessarily be isolated. The conversation also questions whether a conservative system implies that all forces acting within it are conservative, which would support option a). Ultimately, the definitions and relationships between these concepts remain nuanced and require careful consideration. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for a comprehensive grasp of classical mechanics.
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Hello,

Could someone tell me what a conservative system in classical mechanics is? Is it

a) a system in that each particle's total energy is constant

OR

b) a system whose total energy is constant, but the individual particles' total energies may change.


THX, fortaq
 
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the answer is b)
 
Conservative in terms of what?

If it's in terms of matter, then it's a 'closed' system.

If its matter and energy it's an 'isolated' system.
 
In terms of matter and energy.

But is a conservative system in fact identical with an isolated one?
 
To add to my initial question:
Is a conservative system not a system in that all forces are conservative? In that case, namely, answer a) should be true.
 

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