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Re: Is it necessary or helpful to teach work (W) in introductory HSphysics? (long)



Daniel Price asked:

how important is the topic of work to a
solid understanding of basic physics?

Not very.

Can I sacrifice W, allowing more
time for energy conservation

Yes.

For details see
http://www.monmouth.com/~jsd/physics/thermo-laws.htm#sec-work
which says in part:

Recommendation: Fixating on work is a blunder. Work is of
secondary importance at best. Energy is primary and fundamental.
Pay attention to the energy. If ``work'' helps you keep track
of the energy, fine -- otherwise forget about ``work''.