The discussion clarifies the various types of potential energy, confirming that potential energy encompasses gravitational, elastic, chemical, electric, and nuclear forms. Participants agree that potential energy is a subset of mechanical energy, which is defined as the sum of potential and kinetic energies. The conversation highlights the distinction between mechanical energy in classical physics and its broader interpretations, emphasizing that chemical energy, while related to potential energy, is not strictly mechanical. The consensus is that all forms of energy ultimately relate back to mechanical energy in some context.
PREREQUISITESStudents of physics, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of energy types and their applications in mechanical systems.
You seem to be saying that potential energy is not mechanical energy, which is incorrect. Please refer to the wiki definition quoted by Drakkith. There really isn't much more to it. It's just a term of convenience.FissX said:Mechanical energy is not potential energy. It is the conduit or storage of energy of a system with a set task. As it is present in the system, only after the conversion of potential energy, is it referred to as mechanical. Drakkith is correct. Notice the part that says "components of a mechanical system".
I have no idea what you think 'mechanical energy' is or what you are trying to say.FissX said:There is a difference between potential energy existing IN mechanical energy and potential energy actually BEING mechanical energy. They are not one in the same. Mechanical energy cannot exist without potential energy. But potential energy can exist without mechanical energy.
Because I send electricity into a copper wire (example) does not mean the copper wire is also the source of energy. It is a conduit with which potential energy is stored (short version). Mechanical energy is the "copper wire" in the sense that it is an organized mechanical system with a set task.
FissX said:There is a difference between potential energy existing IN mechanical energy and potential energy actually BEING mechanical energy. They are not one in the same. Mechanical energy cannot exist without potential energy. But potential energy can exist without mechanical energy.
Because I send electricity into a copper wire (example) does not mean the copper wire is also the source of energy. It is a conduit with which potential energy is stored (short version). Mechanical energy is the "copper wire" in the sense that it is an organized mechanical system with a set task.