Energy, Work & Power

Vocabulary flashcards based on key terms from CIE IGCSE Physics lecture notes on Energy, Work, and Power.

Energy

A property of an object that can be stored or transferred, measured in joules (J).

System

In physics, a defined object or group of objects wherein energy transfers are observed.

Equilibrium

A state in which a system experiences no changes.

Kinetic Energy

The energy an object has due to its motion, calculated by the formula E_k = 1/2 mv^2.

Gravitational Potential Energy

The energy an object possesses due to its height in a gravitational field, calculated by ∆E_p = mg∆h.

Conservation of Energy

The principle that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another.

Mechanical Work

Work done when a force moves an object over a distance.

Power

The rate at which work is done or energy is transferred, expressed as P = W/t.

Efficiency

The ratio of useful energy output to total energy input, often expressed as a percentage.

Fossil Fuels

Natural resources like coal, natural gas, and crude oil formed from the remains of ancient organisms.

Biofuels

Renewable fuels derived from plant matter that can partially replace fossil fuels.

Nuclear Fission

The process of splitting a large nucleus into smaller nuclei, releasing energy.

Nuclear Fusion

The process of joining two small nuclei to form a larger nucleus, releasing a substantial amount of energy.

Geothermal Energy

Energy harnessed from the Earth's internal heat.

Hydroelectric Power

Electricity generated by using the gravitational potential energy of stored water.

Wave Power

Energy obtained from the movement of ocean waves to generate electricity.

Tidal Power

Energy harnessed from the tidal movements of water.

Solar Cells

Devices that convert sunlight directly into electricity.