What does the law of conservation of energy state?

The law of conservation of energy is a fundamental principle in physics that asserts that the total energy in a closed system remains constant. This means that energy cannot be created or destroyed; it can only change from one form to another. For instance, in a mechanical system, potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy and vice versa, but the overall energy of the system does not change.

This principle is essential in understanding various physical phenomena, from simple mechanical systems, like a swinging pendulum, to complex thermodynamic processes. It underscores the interconnectedness of different forms of energy and supports the idea that while energy may appear to dissipate, it is merely converting into another form that may not be immediately visible or usable in the same way.

Understanding that energy transformations happen without a net loss or gain in a closed system helps explain a wide range of processes in physics, from engines to ecosystems. The conservation of energy is a cornerstone of both classical and modern physics, providing deep insights into the behavior of physical systems.