Conservative force

Definition

A conservative force is a force where the work done in moving an object between two points is independent of the path taken. Examples include gravitational and electrostatic forces.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The work done by a conservative force around any closed loop is zero.
2. Potential energy can be defined for a system with only conservative forces.
3. Conservative forces are path-independent, meaning the total work done depends only on the initial and final positions.
4. Gravitational force and spring force (Hooke's Law) are examples of conservative forces.
5. Energy conservation principles hold strictly in systems where only conservative forces act.

Review Questions

• What is the definition of a conservative force?
• How does the work done by a conservative force differ from that of a non-conservative force?
• Can potential energy be defined for non-conservative forces? Why or why not?

Related terms

Non-Conservative Force:

A non-conservative force is one where the work done depends on the path taken. Examples include friction and air resistance.

Potential Energy:

Energy stored within a system due to its position or configuration, which can be converted into kinetic energy.

Conservation of Energy:

A principle stating that the total energy in an isolated system remains constant, though it may change forms.