what is mechanical energy

11 months ago 38
Nature

Mechanical energy is the sum of potential energy and kinetic energy. It is the energy that an object possesses due to its motion or position. Kinetic energy is the energy of motion, while potential energy is the energy stored in objects by their position. The total amount of mechanical energy is the sum of the potential energy and the kinetic energy. Mechanical energy is a scalar quantity, and it is the ability of an object to do work. Many devices are used to convert mechanical energy to or from other forms of energy, such as an electric motor that converts electrical energy to mechanical energy, an electric generator that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy, and a heat engine that converts heat to mechanical energy. Mechanical energy is also a driver of renewable energy, and many forms of renewable energy rely on mechanical energy to produce power or convert energy.