What does the conservation of energy principle state?

The principle of conservation of energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed but can only change forms or be transformed from one type to another. This means that in a closed system, the total amount of energy remains constant regardless of the processes occurring within that system. For instance, when potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, the total energy before and after the transformation remains the same.

This principle is fundamental in various scientific fields, including physics and engineering, as it governs how energy interacts during processes such as motion, heat transfer, and chemical reactions. Understanding this concept allows scientists and engineers to predict how energy flows and transforms in different systems, from mechanical machines to electrical circuits, reinforcing the importance of energy efficiency in designs and operations.