MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)

Work and Energy

Jan 27, 2026
Explore the fascinating world of work and energy, starting with the mathematical definitions and sign conventions of work. Discover how work relates to kinetic and potential energy through real-world examples, including pitching mechanics. Dive into the concept of mechanical advantage and learn about energy transfer's three modes: conduction, convection, and radiation. The discussion also covers the differences between energy and work, and how they combine to form total mechanical energy. Perfect for those prepping for the MCAT!
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INSIGHT

Expect Less-Than-Perfect Efficiency

  • Real machines have efficiency <100% because of energy losses.
  • Efficiency equals output work divided by input work and ideal machines are rare.
ANECDOTE

Pitching Shows Human Mechanical Advantage

  • Sam uses baseball pitching to show levers and mechanical advantage in the human arm.
  • Longer lever arms let pitchers generate much higher ball speeds than shorter arms would.
INSIGHT

Power Relates Work To Time

  • Power equals work divided by time and is measured in watts (J/s).
  • You can express power as force times velocity for quick calculations.
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