Basic physics concept Flashcards
Definition of work
In physics, work is defined as a force causing the movement—or displacement—of an object. Work is a scalar unit. It is defined mathematically as Force times distance.
Definition of Potential Energy
Stored energy due to position that can be released once the object starts its motion.
Gravitational Potential Energy = PEgrav = m *• g • h
Elastic Potential Energy = PEspring = 0.5 • k • x2
where k = spring constant
x = amount of compression
(relative to equilibrium position)
Definition of Kinetic Energy
Kinetic energy is the energy of motion. An object that has motion - whether it is vertical or horizontal motion - has kinetic energy.
It is defined mathematically as KE = 0.5 • m • v^2
Units is 1 Joule = 1 kg • m2/s2
Definition of Power
Power is the rate at which work is done. It is the work/time ratio. Mathematically, it is computed using the following equation.
Power = Work / time
Its unit is Watt which is Joule/sec
Definition of Momentum
Momentum can be defined as “mass in motion.” Momentum depends upon the variables mass and velocity. In terms of an equation, the momentum of an object is equal to the mass of the object times the velocity of the object.
Momentum = mass • velocity
The standard metric unit of momentum is the kg•m/s.
Impulse
In classical mechanics, impulse is the integral of a force, F, over the time interval, t, for which it acts. Since force is a vector quantity, impulse is also a vector in the same direction. Impulse applied to an object produces an equivalent vector change in its linear momentum, also in the same direction.
Inertia
Tendency that an keeps doing what it has been doing. An object with a high inertia will be difficult to slow down or speed up.
Mathematically it is the Sum of all masses times the distance from axis of rotation squared.
shear forces and bending moment
Shear forces are forces acting in opposite directions at a single plane. A bending moment is when two forces are acting in opposite directions with a distance between them.
Newton’s laws of motion
1st Law: Every object persists in its state of rest or uniform motion in a straight line unless if a force is applied on it.
2nd Law: F = ma
3rd Law: For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction
