We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Eric Meloche, Ph.D.

This comprehensive course covers kinetic energy, work, potential energy and conservation of energy. The course combines lectures that summarize the important concepts and tutorials that will guide you and help you develop a problem solving strategy. You'll learn how to apply conservation of energy principles to study the dynamics of systems.

Topics include in this class are:

1) Kinetic Energy, Work

2) Applying Work-Energy Theorem

3) Work done by gravitational forces, springs

4) Power

5) Potential Energy and Conservation of Mechanical Energy

Read more

This comprehensive course covers kinetic energy, work, potential energy and conservation of energy. The course combines lectures that summarize the important concepts and tutorials that will guide you and help you develop a problem solving strategy. You'll learn how to apply conservation of energy principles to study the dynamics of systems.

Topics include in this class are:

1) Kinetic Energy, Work

2) Applying Work-Energy Theorem

3) Work done by gravitational forces, springs

4) Power

5) Potential Energy and Conservation of Mechanical Energy

There are over 40 fully solved problems ranging in difficulty. I've mixed in many conceptual problems as well as algebraic problems to help you practice applying energy principles to solve problems.

If at any point you don't understand something in my videos please feel free to reach out. I'm always willing to help someone learn. Physics Ninja always has your back.

Happy Learning

Dr. E., Physics Ninja and Expert Physics and Math Teacher.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Solve a wide range of physics problems using energy concepts.
  • Understand and be able to apply the work-energy theorem to solve problems
  • Calculate power
  • How to calculate the work done by spring forces, gravitational forces, and frictional forces
  • Understand the concepts of potential energy and conservation of energy
  • Able to read and understand potential energy curves

Syllabus

Introduction
Introduction to Energy Course

I've attached the Lecture Notes to this video.  Don't forget to download them!

What is Energy?
Read more

The first part of this problem involves a bit of calculus.   Part b) is more important where you are asked to apply the potential equation formula.

Parts (a) and (b) should be straightforward but part (c) is a little harder.  Think about what it means for the strings to remain straight (taught).

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Offers a comprehensive review of energy concepts, which is helpful for students building a foundation in physics or preparing for standardized tests
Includes over 40 fully solved problems with varying difficulty, which helps learners develop and refine their problem-solving strategies
Mixes conceptual and algebraic problems, which allows learners to practice applying energy principles in different contexts
Features some problems that involve calculus, which may require learners to have a basic understanding of calculus concepts
Explores topics like kinetic energy, potential energy, work, and power, which are fundamental concepts in classical mechanics

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Mastering work, energy, and power concepts

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in the concepts of work, energy, and power. Students particularly appreciate the course's strong focus on problem-solving, with many solved examples and a clear problem-solving strategy provided. The lectures are said to explain concepts like conservation of energy clearly, and the tutorials are helpful in applying these ideas. The instructor, Physics Ninja, is noted as being accessible and willing to help. While the course includes a range of problem difficulties, including some challenging calculus-based problems, it is generally well-regarded for building essential physics skills.
Problems vary in difficulty, offering good practice.
"Some problems, especially later ones, required significant thought and effort."
"I appreciated the mix of easy and hard problems included in the set."
"The calculus-based problems were a good challenge and expanded my skills."
Lectures, tutorials, and problems complement each other.
"The combination of lectures and tutorials works well together."
"The lecture notes attached to the videos are a useful resource."
"Following the suggested problem-solving strategy helped me stay organized."
Instructor is available and supportive.
"Physics Ninja is always ready to help if you have questions."
"Got quick and helpful responses to my questions about problem sets."
"The instructor's willingness to help makes a big difference when stuck."
Concepts explained clearly in lectures and tutorials.
"The lectures broke down complex ideas well, making them easy to grasp."
"I finally understood conservation of energy after watching these lessons."
"Great explanations of work and potential energy principles."
Strong emphasis on solving physics problems.
"The course really focuses on applying the concepts to solve problems."
"I found the many solved examples incredibly helpful for practice."
"Learning the problem-solving strategy was key for me in tackling problems."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Physics 100: Mastering Work, Energy, and Power with these activities:
Review Basic Kinematics
Refresh your understanding of kinematics concepts like displacement, velocity, and acceleration, which are foundational for understanding work and energy.
Browse courses on Kinematics
Show steps
  • Review your notes on kinematics from previous physics courses.
  • Work through example problems involving constant acceleration.
  • Practice converting between different units of measurement.
Read 'Six Easy Pieces' by Richard Feynman
Gain a more intuitive understanding of energy concepts by reading Feynman's engaging explanations.
Show steps
  • Read one chapter per week, focusing on the sections related to energy and motion.
  • Summarize the key concepts from each chapter in your own words.
  • Reflect on how Feynman's explanations relate to the course material.
Solve Work-Energy Theorem Problems
Solidify your understanding of the Work-Energy Theorem by solving a variety of problems.
Show steps
  • Find practice problems online or in a textbook.
  • Solve each problem step-by-step, showing your work.
  • Check your answers and review the solutions to understand any mistakes.
  • Focus on problems that involve different types of forces and potential energies.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Video Explaining Potential Energy
Deepen your understanding of potential energy by creating a video explaining the concept to others.
Browse courses on Potential Energy
Show steps
  • Research different types of potential energy (gravitational, elastic, etc.).
  • Write a script that explains potential energy in a clear and concise way.
  • Record a video explaining potential energy, using visuals and examples.
  • Edit the video and share it with others for feedback.
Design a Roller Coaster
Apply your knowledge of energy conservation to design a roller coaster that meets specific criteria.
Show steps
  • Research roller coaster design principles and safety requirements.
  • Sketch a design for your roller coaster, including hills, loops, and turns.
  • Calculate the potential and kinetic energy at different points along the track.
  • Use a simulation tool or build a physical model to test your design.
  • Refine your design based on the results of your simulations or tests.
Tutor Students in Energy Concepts
Reinforce your understanding of energy concepts by tutoring other students who are struggling with the material.
Browse courses on Energy
Show steps
  • Offer to help classmates who are having difficulty with the course material.
  • Prepare explanations and examples to help them understand the concepts.
  • Answer their questions and provide feedback on their work.
Read 'Physics for Scientists and Engineers' by Serway and Jewett
Use this textbook as a reference to deepen your understanding of the concepts and problem-solving techniques.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters related to work, energy, and power.
  • Work through the example problems in the textbook.
  • Use the textbook to find additional practice problems.

Career center

Learners who complete Physics 100: Mastering Work, Energy, and Power will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Physics Teacher
A physics teacher educates students on the principles of physics. This role naturally requires a strong understanding of all topics covered in a typical introductory physics class. This course, which includes a comprehensive look at kinetic energy, potential energy, and the Work-Energy Theorem, serves as a helpful resource for someone aiming to teach physics. The course's extensive examples and problem sets will be particularly useful in preparing lectures and tutorials. The problem solving approach presented in the course may also serve as a helpful model for teaching.
Mechanical Engineer
A mechanical engineer designs, develops, and tests mechanical devices and systems. This role requires a strong understanding of energy principles, including kinetic and potential energy. This course, which covers the concepts of work, energy, and power, helps build a foundation in the physics principles that are the backbone of mechanical engineering. The problem-solving skills developed in the course are directly applicable to the challenges a mechanical engineer will face in design and analysis. The course's many practical examples, such as the examples involving work done by spring or gravitational forces, are particularly helpful for those entering this career field.
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace engineers design and develop aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. Understanding concepts such as kinetic energy, potential energy, and power is invaluable for this career. This course, which provides a thorough introduction to the principles of energy and its conservation, helps aerospace engineers understand the physics behind flight and propulsion. The course's emphasis on problem-solving using energy principles is beneficial for analyzing and designing components of aircraft or spacecraft . The course also covers the work-energy theorem, which is directly applicable to analyzing thrust and trajectory.
Renewable Energy Engineer
Renewable energy engineers design and implement systems that harness sustainable energy sources. This job requires a strong understanding of energy principles, including kinetic energy, potential energy, and the conversion between different forms of energy. This course, which covers these topics in depth, will be highly helpful to those seeking a career in this field. The course's study of power, as well as its emphasis on the conservation of energy, are of particular relevance. The course will help form the understanding of fundamental physics principles this role requires. The numerous solved problems are useful for developing the analytical skills needed in this role.
Robotics Engineer
Robotics engineers design, build, and program robots and automated systems. This career requires a strong grasp of fundamental physics principles such as energy, work, and power. This course explores topics core to robotics design, including kinetic and potential energy, and the work-energy theorem. The course's focus on problem-solving is directly applicable to designing power systems, actuators, and control mechanisms for robots. The many solved problems in the course further helps to illustrate concepts relevant to dynamics. The inclusion of spring force examples is also helpful, as springs are frequently used in robotic devices.
Automotive Engineer
Automotive engineers design, develop, and test vehicles and their components. A solid grasp of physics principles, especially related to energy and motion, is essential for this role. This course, which covers such fundamental concepts as kinetic energy, potential energy, and power, helps build a foundation for automotive engineering. By learning to apply the Work-Energy theorem, those interested in automotive engineering will gain valuable insights into mechanics and dynamics applicable to vehicles. Furthermore, the course's examples will be helpful in understanding the forces and energy involved in vehicle operation and safety.
Energy Analyst
An energy analyst assesses energy usage, efficiency, and sustainability in various contexts. This job requires a solid understanding of energy principles, including kinetic energy, potential energy, and the conservation of energy. Completing this course, which covers these essential concepts, can be beneficial to those who want to work as an energy analyst. The course's study of power is also particularly useful, as power is a key metric for understanding energy systems. The course's emphasis on problem-solving provides useful skills for energy analysis.
Research Scientist
A research scientist conducts experiments and analyses to advance scientific knowledge. This can take place in a variety of fields, many of which rely on applying physics principles. This course, which delves into kinetic energy, potential energy, and the conservation of energy, can be beneficial for many types of research. The course's problem-solving approach and numerous examples will be useful for designing and interpreting experiments. For those interested in studies involving forces and energy, this course's in-depth exploration of work and power is particularly beneficial. A research scientist typically holds an advanced degree such as a Masters or PhD.
Civil Engineer
Civil engineers plan, design, and oversee the construction of infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, and buildings. This role benefits from a sound understanding of the principles of work, energy, and power. This course, which covers concepts such as kinetic energy, potential energy, and conservation of mechanical energy, may be useful for civil engineering. It can help engineers understand the forces and energy involved in structural design, for example, in determining the energy required for construction. The problem-solving approach taken in the course provides a framework for addressing engineering problems.
Structural Engineer
Structural engineers analyze, design, and oversee the construction of structures to ensure they are safe and stable. This career requires an understanding of the forces and energies impacting buildings, bridges, and other structures. This course, which covers concepts such as work, power, potential energy, and conservation of energy may be beneficial for structural engineering. The course's focus on problem-solving with physical principles can help structural engineers approach design challenges. Understanding the work-energy theorem is also useful in structural analysis.
Product Designer
Product designers conceptualize and develop new products, focusing on both functionality and user experience. Knowledge of the underlying physics is helpful for designing tools, devices, or other physical products. This course, which teaches concepts related to energy, work, and power, may be beneficial for these designers. The numerous problem-solving examples in the course help develop the analytical skills necessary for good product design. Furthermore, understanding energy transfer and conservation principles allows product designers to make design decisions that maximize efficiency and sustainability.
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical engineers apply engineering principles to healthcare and medicine, often working with devices or technologies for medical use. Understanding the physics of how forces, energy, and motion interact is fundamental to this career. This course, which explores various energy principles, including work, kinetic energy, and potential energy, may be helpful for biomedical engineers. The work-energy theorem, as covered in this course, may be useful in understanding biomechanics and the design of medical devices. The problem solving skills developed in this course will be applicable to a variety of problems in the biomedical field.
Data Scientist
Data scientists analyze large datasets to identify patterns and insights. While it is not directly related, the problem solving skills that can be refined in this course can be useful to a data scientist. This course, which covers many concepts relating to physics principles, such as kinetic and potential energy, may help develop the ability to approach problems logically and solve them systematically. While not directly connected to the typical work of a data scientist, the analytical thinking skills honed in a course like this prove useful to a data scientist. The course's emphasis on breaking down complex problems into manageable steps can help data scientists in interpreting results.
Investment Analyst
An investment analyst researches and evaluates investment opportunities for firms or individuals. Though this role is primarily financial in nature, some quantitative skills are relevant. This course, which emphasizes problem-solving strategies, may be useful for an investment analyst. The course will help develop skills in thinking about cause and effect, which can be applied to predicting market behavior. The analytical and critical thinking concepts explored in this class may be beneficial for an analyst. This course may be useful for those interested in the financial sector.
Software Developer
Software developers design, create, and test software systems. While this job is primarily concerned with programming, this course may be useful in developing problem-solving skills. This course, which covers work, kinetic energy, and potential energy, may help form the analytical thinking abilities that are needed by software developers. The numerous examples in the course may be useful in developing a methodology for taking complex problems and breaking them into components. This course may be useful for someone interested in a career in software development.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Physics 100: Mastering Work, Energy, and Power.
This standard textbook used in many introductory physics courses. It provides a comprehensive treatment of mechanics, including work, energy, and power. It useful reference for understanding the concepts and solving problems. is valuable as a reference tool and for providing additional depth to the course.
Provides a conceptual overview of physics, including energy. It explains complex topics in an accessible way, making it useful for building intuition. While not a problem-solving guide, it offers valuable context and a deeper understanding of the underlying principles. It is often recommended as supplemental reading for introductory physics courses.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser