Non-Conservative Force
Reference from the original Physics I textbook.
- Non-Conservative Force
A nonconservative force does work that depends on the path. Kinetic friction is an example: mechanical energy can be converted into thermal energy.
Example: Friction
- Related Glossary Terms
- Index
Reviewed physics notes (1)
These corrections keep the original lesson’s purpose while fixing errors in the source edition.
- Definition by a reversal of force direction is false. — Reference 1
Glossary and deeper reading · 1 refreshers
These editorial refreshers supplement the reading. Definitions and examples are added guidance; original source wording and recorded answers remain in their original context.
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Nonconservative force
A nonconservative force can do work that depends on the path followed. Its effects cannot be described by a single configuration-dependent potential energy for that interaction alone. For example, sliding friction transfers more mechanical energy into thermal energy along a longer sliding path under the same conditions.