Science Notes - Energy Conservation and Circuits

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to energy conservation, efficiency, and basic electrical circuits.

Law of Conservation of Energy

Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only changes place or form.

Energy Transformation

The process of changing energy from one form to another, e.g. Electrical to Thermal.

Energy Transfer

The process of moving energy from one place to another, e.g. Thermal energy transfer from a hot mug.

Chemical Energy

Energy stored in the bonds of chemical compounds, like atoms and molecules.

Kinetic Energy (KE)

Energy of a moving object, calculated as KE = ½ mv².

Gravitational Potential Energy (GPE)

Energy an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field, calculated as GPE = mgh.

Energy Efficiency

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

Electromagnetic Induction

The process by which a changing magnetic field creates an electric current in a conductor.

Series Circuit

A type of circuit where components are connected end-to-end, sharing the same current.

Parallel Circuit

A type of circuit where components are connected across common points, allowing multiple paths for current.

Ohm's Law

A fundamental principle that states Voltage = Current x Resistance.

Resistance (R)

A measure of the opposition to the flow of current in a circuit, measured in ohms (Ω).

Voltage (V)

A measure of the potential energy that electrons possess, measured in volts (V).

Current (I)

The flow of electric charge in a circuit, measured in amperes (A).

Power (P)

The rate at which energy is transferred or work is done, measured in watts (W).

Insulator

A material that has high electrical resistance and allows very little current to flow.

Conductor

A material that has low electrical resistance and allows electric currents to flow easily.

Wind Turbines

Devices that convert the kinetic energy of wind into electrical energy using blades that turn.

Fossil Fuels

Natural fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas formed from the remains of living organisms.