In the absence of non-conservative forces, the total mechanical energy of an isolated system is:
Always constant
The law of conservation of mechanical energy states that for an isolated system acted upon only by conservative forces (such as gravity or an ideal spring force), the sum of kinetic energy and potential energy remains unchanged over time.
Non-conservative forces such as friction or air resistance are responsible for dissipating mechanical energy as heat or sound; in their absence, no such loss occurs.
Therefore, the total mechanical energy of the isolated system remains always constant.
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