JEE Physics
JEEPhysicsWork, Energy & PowerClass 11

What is the difference between conservative force and non-conservative force?

A conservative force (gravity, spring) stores energy recoverably and does path-independent work; a non-conservative force (friction) dissipates energy and depends on the path.

A conservative force (gravity, spring) stores energy recoverably and does path-independent work; a non-conservative force (friction) dissipates energy and depends on the path. A reliable way to keep them apart is to focus on what each one is defined by, not just the similar-sounding words.

Key point

conservative force vs non-conservative force

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