ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces the concepts of work, energy and power. It defines the equations used to analyse work, energy and power. The chapter explains how work, energy and power are applied to both linear and angular motion. It defines the relationship between potential energy and kinetic energy. The chapter also defines efficiency in terms of power. A body which possesses energy, perhaps due to its motion or its position, has the capacity to do work. Before energy or power can be discussed it is, therefore, important to understand what is meant by the terms 'to do work' or 'work done'. High-temperature steam is used to turn turbines by virtue of its thermal energy. Though there are many applications of energy in its various forms, it is the application of mechanical energy that is important in the present discussion. Potential energy may also be used to describe other systems where energy is stored.
