When is energy not conserved?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the conditions under which energy is not conserved, which typically occurs in non-isolated systems or when considering forms of energy such as thermal energy that can be transformed or dissipated, particularly in irreversible processes.
Answer
Energy is not conserved in general relativity or changing space.
Energy is not conserved in general relativity or when the space through which particles move is changing.
Answer for screen readers
Energy is not conserved in general relativity or when the space through which particles move is changing.
More Information
In general relativity, the concept of a global conservation of energy doesn't hold due to the lack of a universal time. When the space through which particles move is changing, as in an expanding universe, energy conservation cannot be defined in the traditional sense.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming energy conservation applies universally in all contexts. Be mindful of the specific conditions of your system, especially in relativistic or dynamic space scenarios.
Sources
- Energy Is Not Conserved – Sean Carroll - preposterousuniverse.com
- How can energy be NOT conserved!! : r/AskPhysics - Reddit - reddit.com
- Strange but true: the expanding Universe doesn't conserve energy - bigthink.com
