yr 8 physics - energy and heat

energy

Energy is the ability to do work. It makes things happen. It is need to move or heat something, make noise or outright or to change an objects shape.

Kinetic energy

the energy of movement

Light energy

The energy that warms the planet and allows us to see things more clearly.

Electrical energy

The energy created from the movement of electrons in the electric current.

Thermal (heat) energy

The energy associated with the movement of atoms in a substance. The higher the temperature, the greater the kinetic energy.

Sound energy

The energy associated with vibrations caused by sound passing through a substance.

Potential energy

Energy that is stored and held in readiness

Gravitational energy

The energy of a raised object due to gravity will fall downward. It changes to kinetic energy as the object falls.

Elastic energy

The energy of a stretched or compressed object, which has potential to return to its original shape (e.g. springs or elastics)

Chemical energy

The energy which can be released when a chemical reaction occurs (e.g. inside a battery or fuels) Often heat or light are produced.