Energy Transfer and Calculations
Energy is a fundamental concept in physics, involving transfers between various stores such as thermal, kinetic, chemical, and gravitational potential energy. Understanding these transfers is crucial for GCSE Physics energy questions and answers.
Key points:
- Work done is energy transferred
- Kinetic energy formula: KE = 1/2mv²
- Gravitational potential energy: GPE = mgh
- Power is the rate of energy transfer: P = E/t
Definition: Specific heat capacity is the amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of 1kg of a substance by 1°C.
Practical applications include calculating energy transfers in falling objects and springs. Students should be familiar with energy calculations in physics for both kinetic and potential energy.
Example: A practical experiment to determine specific heat capacity involves using insulators, thermometers, and heaters to measure temperature changes over time.
The topic also covers renewable and non-renewable energy resources:
Highlight: Non-renewable sources like coal, oil, and gas provide most energy but will eventually run out and cause environmental damage.
Vocabulary: Renewable energy sources include solar, wind, and biofuels, which are sustainable but may have limitations in reliability or environmental impact.
Nuclear power is discussed as a low-carbon option, though it has its own challenges:
Quote: "Nuclear power is fairly reliable but can't respond to immediate energy demand. It's very expensive and requires space that could be used for food production."
