Work results in a change in energy?

AI Thread Summary
Work done on an object is indeed equal to its change in kinetic energy, particularly when considering the net force acting on it, including gravitational forces. The confusion arises from the distinction between kinetic energy and total mechanical energy, which encompasses both kinetic and potential energy. When an object is raised vertically, the work done against gravity does convert to gravitational potential energy. Therefore, while work can change kinetic energy, it also contributes to changes in potential energy depending on the context. Understanding these relationships clarifies how work affects energy in different scenarios.
Dee08
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In my textbook and in a lot of other resources it says that the work done on an object is equal to the object's change in kinetic energy. I was under the impression that work is the change in total mechanical energy.
Also, if an object is being raised vertically upward, isn't the work done on the object equal to its gravitational potential energy?

I'm really confused! It would be greatly appreciated if someone could explain this concept to me :)
 
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I think it is correct to say that the work is equal to the object's change in kinetic energy, if by work you mean the one of the net force on the object (which includes gravity).
 

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