Conservation of Energy 3.1

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture notes on Conservation of Energy, including definitions, formulas, and principles.

What is Gravitational Potential Energy (GPE)?

The energy an object has due to its height in a gravitational field.

How do you calculate the change in Gravitational Potential Energy (ΔGPE)?

ΔGPE = m × g × Δh, where m is mass, g is gravitational strength, and Δh is change in height.

What is the approximate gravitational field strength (g) on Earth?

Approximately 10 N/kg.

What is Kinetic Energy (KE)?

The amount of energy an object has as a result of its mass and speed.

How do you calculate Kinetic Energy (KE)?

KE = 1/2 × m × v², where m is mass and v is speed.

What does the principle of conservation of energy state?

Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred from one store to another.

What is a closed system in physics?

A system where there is no net change to the total energy; total energy remains constant.

What are the common energy transfer pathways?

Mechanically, electrically, by heating, and by radiation.

What is a Sankey diagram used for?

To represent energy transfers, showing useful output and wasted energy.

What happens to energy when a vehicle slows down?

Energy is transferred to the thermal store of the surroundings, dissipated as heat.

What energy transfers occur when an object is projected upwards?

Energy is transferred from the chemical store (person's) to the kinetic store of the ball, then to its gravitational potential store as height increases.

In the scenario of a battery powering a torch, what are the energy stores involved?

Energy transfers from the chemical store of the battery to the thermal store of the bulb.

What is the significance of the Greek letter 'Δ' in physics?

It stands for 'change in', as in change in energy or change in height.