Work and Energy

Work Done

Energy transfer when a force moves an object.

Work Equation

W = Fd, where W is work done.

Conservation of Energy

Total energy remains constant during transfer.

Gravitational Potential Energy

Energy stored due to an object's height.

GPE Formula

GPE = mg∆h, where m is mass.

Kinetic Energy

Energy an object possesses due to motion.

KE Formula

KE = ½(mv²), where v is velocity.

Elastic Potential Energy

Energy stored in deformed elastic objects.

Hooke's Law

F = kx, relates force and extension.

Spring Constant

Measure of a spring's stiffness (k).

Force-Extension Graph

Graph showing relationship between force and extension.

Elastic Deformation

Reversible change in shape of a spring.

Plastic Deformation

Permanent change in shape beyond elastic limit.

Work on Spring

Work done equals area under force-extension graph.

Energy Efficiency

Ratio of useful energy output to input.

Vehicle Efficiency

Percentage of energy converted to useful work.

Frictional Forces

Opposing forces that reduce energy efficiency.

Drag Forces

Resistance forces acting against vehicle motion.

Engine Power

Rate of doing work, varies by engine size.

Aerodynamics

Design to reduce air resistance on vehicles.

Rolling Resistance

Force needed to move a vehicle's tyres.

Idling Losses

Energy wasted when a vehicle is stationary.

Inertial Losses

Energy lost during acceleration and deceleration.

Chemical Energy

Energy stored in fuel, converted to mechanical.

Mechanical Energy

Energy associated with the motion of objects.

Heat Energy

Non-useful energy lost during work processes.

Energy Conversion Rate

Efficiency of converting one energy form to another.