Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

In the principle of conservation of energy, what does it state about energy in the universe?

1. It can be created

2. It diminishes over time

3. It is constant

4. It can change forms

The correct answer is: It is constant

The principle of conservation of energy asserts that the total energy in a closed system remains constant over time. This means that energy can neither be created nor destroyed; rather, it can only change forms. For example, kinetic energy can be transformed into potential energy and vice versa, but the total amount of energy will remain the same. This foundational concept underlies many physical phenomena and laws, indicating that while the manifestations of energy may change, the overall energy quantity in the universe is conserved. The other options suggest misunderstandings of this principle. Suggesting that energy can be created or diminishes over time contradicts the core tenet of conservation, which affirms that energy is always accounted for within a closed system. While energy does change forms, the emphasis on it being constant encapsulates the essence of the conservation principle most succinctly.