Follow the transformation
Observe energy shifting between motion and position in a prepared scene.
AP Physics 1 · Unit 3 · Work, Energy, and Power
Conservation of Mechanical Energy
Track kinetic and potential energy as an object moves. Choose a system and test when mechanical energy stays constant.
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- Self-paced
Start guided lesson
Learn by doing
Three ideas you’ll put into motion
Choose the energy model
Identify the system and decide which interactions belong in the accounting.
Predict another point
Use initial and final energy to predict a speed or height, then check the result.
The big idea
The key ideas, at a glance.
Mechanical energy combines stores
Mechanical energy is Emech = K + U. Changes in one store can be balanced by changes in another.
Conservation has conditions
Mechanical energy remains constant when no external transfer or dissipative process changes it in the chosen model.
A quick comparison
Release an object from rest on a frictionless track in constant gravity.
Same vertical drop → same speed, regardless of route.
Teaching this topic?Classroom fit, AP connections, and support
- Classroom fit
- Use for a concept introduction, guided independent practice, or a projected class discussion.
- Before students begin
- Kinetic energy, gravitational potential energy, and basic algebra.
- Built-in support
- Prepared scenes, guided prompts, and feedback on lesson questions.
- AP Physics 1 connections
- Unit 3: system boundaries and conservation of mechanical energy.
- Check for understanding
- Ask which change to the system or interactions would invalidate a mechanical-energy-only prediction.
- Optional extension
- Try the Skater Bowl lab.
Ready to test your thinking?
The first scene is set up. Start the lesson and explore.