What is the relationship between work and potential energy?

AI Thread Summary
Work is defined as the integral of force over distance, while potential energy is the negative integral of force, leading to the relationship W = -ΔU. This indicates that work done by a conservative force results in a change in potential energy. The discussion highlights the confusion surrounding the definitions and relationships between work, potential energy, and kinetic energy, particularly in conservative systems. The equation W = -ΔU emphasizes the conservation of energy principle, where energy is transformed rather than lost. Understanding these concepts is crucial for grasping the dynamics of objects in force fields.
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Potential energy is stored energy. It is the energy that an object possesses due to its position in a force field or due to its configuration. Potential energy is the energy that an object possesses due to its position in a force field or due to its configuration.
 

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