Work & Energy Anki Deck (Physics)

What this deck is for

This deck is for recall training: quick retrieval of the key definitions (work, kinetic energy, potential energy), what the symbols mean, and the exact conditions that make conservation laws valid.

The cards prompt retrieval or elaboration of key concepts and connections. You’ll also get at least one problem with a structured solution that you can self-explain.

Use it when you want energy problems to feel less like “plug and pray” and more like accounting: you verify the system type (isolated vs. open), check for non-conservative work, and apply the matching balance equation.

This deck does not replace solving problems. It’s the recall layer that makes problem practice efficient.

Coverage

Core ideas

• Work as the transfer of energy via force (scalar product)
• The Work-Energy Theorem (connecting net work to kinetic energy)
• Conservative vs. non-conservative forces
• Conservation of Mechanical Energy vs. Total Energy
• Power as the rate of energy transfer

Equations in this deck

Definitions of Work:

• $W = \vec{F} \cdot \vec{d}$
• $W = \int_{p_1}^{p_2} \vec{F} \cdot d\vec{l}$

Kinetic Energy & Theorems:

• $W_{\text{tot}} = \Delta K = \frac{1}{2}mv_f^2 - \frac{1}{2}mv_i^2$
• $K_{\text{trans}} = \frac{1}{2}mv^2$

Potential Energy:

• $U_{\text{grav}} = mgh$
• $U_{\text{spring}} = \frac{1}{2}kx^2$

Conservation Laws:

• $K_1 + U_1 = K_2 + U_2$
• $K_1 + U_1 + W_{\text{nc}} = K_2 + U_2$

Power:

• $P = \vec{F} \cdot \vec{v}$

Common traps in Work & Energy

Before you drill cards, know the classic failure modes:

• Confusing system boundaries: “Potential energy” belongs to the system (e.g., Earth + ball), not the object. If you count work done by gravity, you cannot ALSO include gravitational potential energy—that connects the same interaction twice.
• Applying conservation when friction acts: Essential check: Is there non-conservative work ($W_{nc} \neq 0$)? If yes, use the full energy balance equation, not just $K_1 + U_1 = K_2 + U_2$.
• Assuming perpendicular forces do no work: True for fixed paths, but if the constraint surface itself moves (like an elevator floor), the normal force does do work.
• Sign errors with work: Work is a scalar, but it has a sign. Force opposing displacement does negative work (removing energy). Force helping displacement does positive work (adding energy).
• Using $mgh$ for large heights: $U = mgh$ assumes constant gravity near Earth’s surface. For satellites, you must use the full radial gravitational potential.

What this deck does not do

• It does not teach full mechanics problem solving by itself.
• It does not cover Momentum or Collisions. If you want that next, move to setups and reasoning practice.

How to use it (so it works)

1. Download the deck and import into Anki (File → Import).
2. Do short daily sessions. Ten minutes beats one long weekly grind.
3. Always attempt before reveal. Recognition is not recall.
4. When you miss a card, write a one-line rule (condition → action): “Friction is present, so use the $W_{nc}$ term.”
5. Pair recall with real setup practice: Problem-Solving Strategies.

If you want the full physics+math Anki workflow (card types, settings, traps), use: How to Study Physics & Math with Anki

Where this fits in a typical mechanics sequence

• Previous: Forces & Newton’s Laws Anki Deck
• Next up: Momentum Anki Deck

If you’re using Unisium

Anki is strong at recall. Unisium is built to train the full loop: retrieval practice, elaboration, self-explanation, and problem solving — with structure and progression.

• Retrieval Practice
• Elaborative Encoding
• Self-Explanation
• Problem-Solving Strategies

Related guides

• How to Study Physics & Math with Anki
• Forces & Newton’s Laws Anki Deck
• Problem-Solving Strategies