The Work-Energy Theorem
Wnet = (1/2) m vf2 - (1/2) m vi 2 KE = K = (1/2) m v 2
Wnet = Kf - Ki
Wnet =
K
The net work -- the work done by the net force -- is equal to the change in Kinetic Energy. Notice that this is the net work -- the work done by the vector sum of all the forces acting on the object. Later, as we study the Conservation of Energy, we will use some of these forces and call the work done by those forces Potential Energy.
Kinetic Energy Power Return to ToC, Ch7, Work and Energy (c) Doug Davis, 2001; all rights reserved
