Energy Conservation, Transfer, and Transformation

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering the Law of Conservation of Energy, closed systems, energy transfers versus transformations, experimental dynamics of rolling balls, and methods of heat transfer.

Law of Conservation of Energy

The scientific law stating that energy cannot be created nor destroyed, only transformed or transferred.

Closed System

A system in which no energy or matter enters or leaves, resulting in $\text{Total Energy Input} = \text{Total Energy Output}$.

Energy Transformation

A process in which energy changes from one type to another (e.g., $\text{Potential} \rightarrow \text{Kinetic}$).

Energy Transfer

A process in which energy moves between objects but remains the same type (e.g., $\text{Kinetic} \rightarrow \text{Kinetic}$).

Gravitational Potential Energy (GPE) Formula

The mathematical formula defined as $GPE = \text{mass} \times 9.8 \times \text{height}$ (or $PE = mgh$).

Kinetic Energy (KE) Formula

The mathematical formula representing the energy of motion, given by $KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2$.

Aim of the Rolling Balls Practical

To investigate the effect of mass on the amount of energy an object has by rolling balls of different masses down an inclined plane to displace a takeaway container.

Energy State at the Top of the Hill

The mechanical energy state where an object has high potential energy, but no kinetic energy.

Energy State Rolling Down the Hill

The mechanical energy state where an object in motion simultaneously possesses both kinetic energy and potential energy.

Energy State as an Object Rolls to the Bottom of the Hill

The mechanical energy state where an object possesses kinetic energy but has no potential energy remaining.

Energy State at the Very Bottom of the Hill (Stopped)

The state where a ball has completely stopped rolling, meaning it possesses neither potential energy nor kinetic energy.

Frictionless World Scenario

A theoretical condition where a rolling ball would continue rolling forever because it only possesses kinetic energy and loses none to opposing forces.

Thermal Transfer

The movement of thermal energy between objects that occurs when colliding molecules transfer heat, or through heat generated by friction between opposing forces.

Conduction

Heat transfer via direct molecular contact, which is most effective in solids.

Convection

Heat transfer through density differences, where air particles become less dense when heated, disperse, and rise upwards.

Radiation

Heat transfer via wave motions, capable of transferring heat through space without requiring any material medium.

Golf Drive Energy Interactions

An event featuring both energy transfer (kinetic energy from the golf club transfers to the ball) and energy transformation (kinetic energy from the impact transforms into heat and sound).

Power Slap Energy Interactions

An event featuring both energy transfer (kinetic energy from the slapper transfers to the slapee's face) and energy transformation (kinetic energy transforms into heat and sound).