Difference Between Conservative And Non-Conservative Force

The main difference between conservative and non-conservative forces is the work done. The conservative force depends on the path followed but the non-conservative force is independent of the path.

Conservative vs. Non-Conservative Forces

Feature	Conservative Forces	Non-Conservative Forces
Path Independence	Work done is independent of the path taken.	Work done depends on the path taken.
Energy Conservation	Total mechanical energy is conserved.	Mechanical energy is not conserved; it is converted to other forms (e.g., heat, sound).
Potential Energy	Associated with potential energy.	No associated potential energy.
Example	Gravity, electrostatic force, spring force	Friction, air resistance, tension in a string
Law of Conservation of Energy	Obeys the law of conservation of energy.	Does not obey the law of conservation of energy.
Work Done	Work done is always the same, regardless of the path taken.	Work done depends on the area covered by a body and its initial and final position.
Energy Loss	No energy loss.	Causes a loss of mechanical energy.