Energy and Energy Transformation

Vocabulary flashcards covering the definition of energy, units of measurement, work, the law of conservation of energy, and the different forms of kinetic and potential energy.

Energy

That which makes things move; measured in Joules ($\text{J}$), where $1\,\text{J} = 1\,\text{N}\,\text{m} = 1\,\text{kg}\,\text{m}^2/\text{s}^2$.

Joule (J)

The standard unit of measurement for energy, equivalent to $1\,\text{N}\,\text{m}$ or $1\,\text{kg}\,\text{m}^2/\text{s}^2$.

Work

The transfer of energy from one system to another.

Conservation of Energy

The principle stating that energy cannot be created nor destroyed but only change forms, and that some energy is always lost to the environment.

Kinetic Energy

Energy associated with motion (moving energy); includes mechanical, electrical, heat/thermal, magnetic, light, and sound forms.

Potential Energy

Energy that is stored; includes chemical, nuclear, gravitational, and elastic forms.

Chemical Energy

A form of potential (stored) energy, such as the energy stored within a battery.

Gravitational Energy

A form of potential (stored) energy classified alongside chemical, nuclear, and elastic energy.

Elastic Energy

A form of potential (stored) energy classified alongside chemical, nuclear, and gravitational energy.

Nuclear Energy

A form of potential (stored) energy classified alongside chemical, gravitational, and elastic energy.