Types of energy, laws of thermodynamics

Flashcards covering key concepts related to forms and transformations of energy, including definitions and examples of various energy types and laws of thermodynamics.

What is Kinetic Energy?

The energy of movement.

What is Potential Energy?

Stored energy that can be used later.

What is Thermal Energy?

Energy that comes from moving particles, often experienced as heat.

What is Chemical Energy?

Energy stored in food and fuel, released through chemical reactions.

What is Mechanical Energy?

Energy of objects in motion.

What is Sound Energy?

Energy that can be heard.

What is Elastic Energy?

Energy stored in objects that are stretched.

What is Electrical Energy?

Energy of particles moving through a wire.

What is Light Energy?

Energy that our eyes can detect, associated with electromagnetic radiation.

What is Gravitational Energy?

Energy stored in an object when it is above the earth's surface.

What is the First Law of Thermodynamics?

Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another.

What is the Second Law of Thermodynamics?

Every energy transfer increases the entropy of the universe.

What does entropy refer to?

The degree of randomness or disorder in a system.

What is an Exergonic Reaction?

A reaction that releases energy, beginning with reactants with more potential energy than products.

What is an Endergonic Reaction?

A reaction that requires a net input of energy, with reactants having lower energy than products.

What is Energetic Coupling?

When an exergonic reaction provides energy to drive an endergonic reaction.

How is ATP related to energy transformations?

ATP releases energy to power cellular functions such as building molecules and muscle contraction.

Provide an example of a chemical reaction that is endergonic.

Photosynthesis: CO2 to glucose requires energy from sunlight.

Provide an example of a chemical reaction that is exergonic.

Cellular respiration: glucose breaks down to CO2 and releases energy.