Work and energy in rotational reference frames

D.FERNÁNDEZ; M. F. CARUSELA; C.D.EL HASI; F. LOPEZ ARRIAZU

REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE ENSINO DE FISICA - (Print)

SOC BRASILEIRA FISICA

Lugar: SAN PABLO; Año: 2016 vol. 38

1806-1117

In standard textbooks of college physics, Theorem of Work and Energy is generally presented forinertial reference systems in which it is clear that the kinetic energy is conserved when there is notnet work of the forces of interaction. But what happens when energy and work are calculated on anon-inertial reference frame? In general, in basic physics textbooks this important issue is not treated.In this paper we seek to contribute, in this respect, with a proposal of activities to present and discussthis theorem standing for observers in relative rotation, explicitly emphasizing the differences betweeneach description. This proposal aims at a gradual introduction, by discussion of concepts from simpleand practical examples, but using the basic knowledge of vector formalism.Keywords: Work and Energy, Non-inertial reference frame, Physics Education.