AQA GCSE Physics - Energy

Flashcards covering key concepts related to energy in AQA GCSE Physics.

Energy Stores

A system is an object or group of objects; when a system changes, the way energy is stored also changes.

Kinetic Energy

The energy of a moving object, calculated as Ek = 1/2 mv^2.

Elastic Potential Energy

The energy stored in a spring when it is stretched, calculated as Ee = 1/2 ke^2.

Gravitational Potential Energy

The energy an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field, calculated as Ep = mgh.

Specific Heat Capacity

The energy required to raise the temperature of 1 kg of a substance by 1°C or 1K.

Power

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

Efficiency

The ratio of useful work done by a machine to the energy supplied to it, often expressed as a percentage.

Thermal Conductivity

The property of a material that indicates its ability to conduct heat; higher thermal conductivity allows heat to travel through material more easily.

Renewable Energy

Energy which can be replenished as it is used, such as wind and solar.

Non-Renewable Energy

Energy that comes from sources that will run out or will not be replenished in our lifetimes, such as fossil fuels.