Is Energy Conserved by Fundamental Forces in Accelerating Bodies?

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In summary, the conservation of energy is maintained when considering fundamental forces and their effects on other objects. Charges and masses can accelerate other bodies through attraction or repulsion without losing energy. However, a machine that continuously accelerates a body will eventually run out of energy. This is because potential energy is being converted into kinetic energy. This principle also applies to placing two charges near each other, where the potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as the charges move away from each other. Ultimately, all fundamental forces, including gravity, are considered conservative forces.
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Ratzinger
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When considering fundamental forces and how they act on other objects, how is energy conserved? Charges and masses accelerated other bodies by attracting or repelling them, but they do not lose energy while they do it.

A machine that keeps accelerating a body runs out of energy after a some time. Not so fundamental charges.

So what am I missing?
 
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Ratzinger said:
Charges and masses accelerated other bodies by attracting or repelling them, but they do not lose energy while they do it.
In these cases potential energy is being converted into kinetic.

It takes energy to place two charges next to each other. This potential energy is now converted to kinetic as the two charges accelerate away from each other.

I'm not sure if you were looking for a simple answer like that one or a more complicated one involving the theory behind the fundamental forces.
 
  • #3
Oh yeah, I see...I knew it was a silly question. Gravity and all fundamental forces are conservative forces. Of course.
 

FAQ: Is Energy Conserved by Fundamental Forces in Accelerating Bodies?

How is energy conserved?

Energy is conserved through the principle of conservation of energy, which states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, but can only be transferred or converted from one form to another. This means that the total amount of energy in a closed system remains constant over time.

What is the law of conservation of energy?

The law of conservation of energy is a fundamental principle in physics that states that energy can neither be created nor destroyed, but can only be transformed from one form to another or transferred from one object to another. This means that the total amount of energy in a closed system remains constant.

How does energy conservation impact the environment?

Energy conservation is important for the environment because it reduces the amount of energy we consume, which in turn reduces our carbon footprint and helps to mitigate the effects of climate change. Conserving energy also helps to preserve natural resources and reduce pollution.

What are some ways to conserve energy?

There are many ways to conserve energy, including turning off lights and electronics when not in use, using energy-efficient appliances, insulating buildings to reduce heating and cooling needs, and using renewable energy sources. Small changes in daily habits can also make a big impact, such as taking shorter showers and using public transportation or carpooling instead of driving alone.

How can individuals help with energy conservation?

Individuals can help with energy conservation by making small changes in their daily habits, such as turning off lights and unplugging electronics when not in use, using energy-efficient appliances, and reducing their energy consumption overall. They can also support policies and initiatives that promote energy conservation and use renewable energy sources whenever possible.

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