What does the principle of conservation of energy say
Energy cannot be created or destroyed. It can only be transferred from one store of energy into another.
When an object is projected upwards, what store is its energy in at its highest point?
Gravitational potential
What energy transfers are involved in a vehicle slowing down
To begin with the vehicle has its energy in the KINETIC STORE.
It then gets transferred to the THERMAL STORE by the brakes
We say the the brakes DO WORK on the car.
What are the 4 methods of energy transfer
Electrical work
Waves
Heat
Mechanical work
Work done =
Force x distance (moved along the line of action of the force)
Efficiency (power in watts) =
useful power output/total power input (W) x 100
Efficiency (energy in joules) =
useful energy output/total energy input (J)x 100
What are the advantages of geothermal energy
Renewable
Reliable
What are the disadvantages of geothermal energy
Can only be used where there is volcanic activity close to the surface
What are the advantages of hydroelectric power
Renewable.
More reliable than wind and solar.
What are the disadvantages of hydroelectric power
Hydroelectric dams often change the paths of rivers, which can move people out of houses and harm local wildlife.
What are the advantages of tidal energy
Renewable
What are disadvantages of tidal energy
The creation of tidal turbines can damage fragile ecosystems in estuaries.
What are the disadvantages of nuclear energy
Disposal of nuclear waste with very long half-life can cause serious safety issues.
Widespread and long term damage if an accident occurs.
What are the advantages of nuclear energy
No greenhouse gas emission, so no contribution to global warming.
Reliable, on-demand electricity.
What are the advantages of solar energy
Renewable
What are the disadvantages of solar energy
Only produces electricity when there is sunlight.
What are 3 problems with renewable energy resources
Politics can interfere
They cost more
They are less reliable
Change in gravitational GPE =
mass x gravity x change in height
KE=
1/2 x mass x velocity squared
How is energy stored when a system changes : a pirate ship ride at a theme park
At the highest point of the swing:
No kinetic energy
Maximum GPE
How is energy stored when a system changes :boiling a kettle
Electrical current increases the thermal energy of the element which in turn increases the internal energy of the water which increases the temperature of the water
How is energy stored when a system changes : a boat being accelerated by the force of an engine
The boat pushes through the water as chemical energy is transferred into kinetic energy
Loses chemical energy as fuel is burnt
Gains kinetic energy as it gains speed
How is energy stored when a system changes : a car breaking in an emergency
kinetic energy is transferred into thermal energy of the surroundings by the work done by the force of friction on the brakes