1. What is Total Mechanical Energy?

Total mechanical energy is the sum of kinetic energy and potential energy in a system. It represents the total energy due to motion and position of an object.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the mechanical energy equation:

Where:

• \( E \) — Total mechanical energy (Joules)
• \( m \) — Mass of the object (kg)
• \( v \) — Velocity of the object (m/s)
• \( g \) — Acceleration due to gravity (9.81 m/s²)
• \( h \) — Height above reference point (m)

Explanation: The first term represents kinetic energy (energy of motion), while the second term represents gravitational potential energy (energy due to position).

3. Importance of Mechanical Energy Calculation

Details: Calculating total mechanical energy is fundamental in physics for understanding energy conservation, analyzing mechanical systems, and solving problems in dynamics and thermodynamics.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mass in kilograms, velocity in meters per second, and height in meters. All values must be valid (mass > 0, velocity ≥ 0, height ≥ 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the units of mechanical energy?
A: The SI unit is Joules (J), where 1 J = 1 kg·m²/s².

Q2: Does this formula account for other energy forms?
A: No, this is specifically for mechanical energy. It doesn't include thermal, electrical, or other energy forms.

Q3: When is mechanical energy conserved?
A: In closed systems with only conservative forces (like gravity), total mechanical energy remains constant.

Q4: What if there's friction or air resistance?
A: These non-conservative forces convert mechanical energy to heat, so the total would decrease over time.

Q5: Can this be used for rotational motion?
A: For rotating objects, you'd need to include rotational kinetic energy (½Iω²) in the total.