Energy

Y9 Task 1

Potential Energy

Stored energy an object has due to its position or structure (e.g., gravitational or chemical).

Kinetic Energy

The energy of motion; possessed by any moving object.

Joule (J)

The standard unit used for measuring energy.

Open System

A system where both matter and energy can flow in and out.

Closed System

A system where energy can flow in and out, but matter cannot.

Law of Conservation of Energy

Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or transformed.

Energy Transfer

The movement of the same type of energy from one object to another.

Energy Transformation

The process of energy changing from one form to another (e.g., electrical to light).

Energy Efficiency

The measure of how much input energy is converted into useful output energy versus wasted energy.

Efficiency Formula

(Useful Energy Output / Total Energy Input) x 100.

Sankey Diagram

A visual tool representing energy efficiency where arrow width shows the amount of energy flow.

Energy Star Rating

Information used to make judgements on the efficiency of household appliances.

Fossil Fuels

Non-renewable energy sources (coal, oil, natural gas) formed from ancient organic matter.

Enhanced Greenhouse Effect

Global warming caused by increased greenhouse gases from burning fossil fuels.

Renewable Energy

Energy from sources that are naturally replenished, such as wind, solar, or hydro.

Coal Power Station Transformation

Chemical energy -> Thermal energy -> Kinetic energy -> Electrical energy.

Wind Power Transformation

Kinetic energy (wind) -> Kinetic energy (turbine) -> Electrical energy.

Hydro Power Transformation

Gravitational Potential energy -> Kinetic energy -> Electrical energy.

Non-renewable Disadvantage

High carbon emissions and finite supply (will run out).

Renewable Advantage

Sustainable and produces little to no greenhouse gas emissions.

Complete Circuit

An unbroken path of conductors that allows electrical current to flow.

Conductor

A material that allows electricity to pass through easily, like copper.

Insulator

A material that resists the flow of electricity, like plastic or glass.

Current (I)

The flow of electric charge, measured in Amperes (A).

Voltage (V)

The electrical potential difference or "push" in a circuit, measured in Volts (V).

Resistance (R)

The opposition to the flow of current, measured in Ohms (Ω).

Series Circuit

A circuit where components are connected in a single loop

Parallel Circuit

A circuit with multiple paths/branches

Ammeter

A device used to measure current

Voltmeter

A device used to measure voltage

Ohm's Law

The relationship defined by the formula V = I x R.