All Questions
5
questions
1
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3
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Why can't we define a potential energy for a non-conservative force? [closed]
We could define potential energies for non-conservative forces too and then we could conserve it with kinetic and potential energy as we know it. But no one does that. Why is this? Please explain. Any ...
- 913
0
votes
1
answer
125
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How is work equal to $Tds$ for an element of string in a transverse wave?
Assume that an infinitesimal element of a string is horizontal, and due to a wave passing on it, it's shape changes and is inclined as shown in the figure.
Assuming constant tension $T$ it's claimed ...
- 1,270
4
votes
2
answers
2k
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Why is potential energy defined for only a conservative force? [duplicate]
I want direct answer for this and some interpretation with example.
why do we need conservative force to define potential energy?
what is wrong with non-conservative force and other? I have seen many ...
- 93
1
vote
1
answer
308
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Potential of conservative generalized forces
In Gregory's Classical Mechanics there's a proof that when a standard system is conservative, the generalized forces $Q_j$ can be written as a potential. But I can't seem to explain some steps in the ...
- 13
0
votes
1
answer
82
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Is this understanding of potential energy correct?
I am studying basic mechanics and have reached the chapter on potential energy. However I am a bit confused about the difference between potential energy and the formula for the potential energy due ...
- 527