Conservation of energy
Conservation of Energy
Conservation of Energy (pronunciation: /kɒnsəˈveɪʃən ɒv ˈɛnədʒi/) is a fundamental concept in the field of Physics and Medicine, particularly in the study of Biophysics and Physiology.
Etymology
The term 'Conservation of Energy' is derived from the Latin words 'conservare' meaning 'to keep, preserve' and 'energia' meaning 'activity, operation'. It was first used in the context of physics in the mid-19th century.
Definition
Conservation of Energy refers to the principle that the total energy of an isolated system remains constant, regardless of the changes that may occur within the system. This principle is based on the First Law of Thermodynamics, which states that energy can neither be created nor destroyed, only transformed from one form to another.
Application in Medicine
In medicine, the concept of Conservation of Energy is applied in understanding the energy balance in the human body. This involves the intake and expenditure of energy, which is crucial in maintaining Homeostasis and in the study of Metabolism, Nutrition, and Weight Management.
Related Terms
- Energy: The capacity to do work or produce heat.
- Kinetic Energy: The energy possessed by an object due to its motion.
- Potential Energy: The energy possessed by an object due to its position or state.
- Thermodynamics: The branch of physics that deals with heat and temperature, and their relation to energy, work, radiation, and properties of matter.
- Metabolism: The chemical processes that occur within a living organism in order to maintain life.
- Homeostasis: The tendency towards a relatively stable equilibrium between interdependent elements, especially as maintained by physiological processes.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Conservation of energy
- Wikipedia's article - Conservation of energy
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