STLinSTL 2024

Conservation of energy is a fundamental principle of the Universe. Yet, teaching and applying conservation of energy is rife with inconsistencies, unarticulated assumptions, and untenable definitions which leaves students without a strong framework which they can use to analyze any system. In this workshop, we will walk through an “energy storyline” starting with the energy of a particle, then the energy of a system of particles (interacting gravitationally or electrically), and then the energy of a macroscopic system. In this storyline, mechanics and thermodynamics are integrated. Although I will emphasize the storyline in physics, this workshop will apply to all physical, life, and earth sciences.