Topic 3 - Conservation Of Energy - Energy Changes

Question 1

What happens to kinetic energy (KE) when an object is projected upwards?

Answer 1

KE is transferred to gravitational potential energy (GPE), then vice versa as it falls back down

This illustrates the conversion of energy forms during the motion of the object.

Question 2

When an object is projected up a slope, what types of energy transfer occur?

Answer 2

KE is transferred to GPE, and also to heat if friction is present

Friction plays a significant role in energy loss as heat during this process.

Question 3

What occurs when a moving object hits an obstacle?

Answer 3

KE is transferred to sound and/or KE is transferred to the obstacle if that moves too

The impact can result in energy loss as sound and movement of the obstacle.

Question 4

What does it mean when an object is accelerated by a constant force?

Answer 4

Work is done on the object, resulting in a gain of KE

The energy supplied by the force is converted into kinetic energy.

Question 5

What happens to kinetic energy when a vehicle slows down?

Answer 5

KE is transferred to heat through brakes

This energy transfer is crucial for vehicle deceleration.

Question 6

In boiling water in a kettle, what type of energy conversion occurs?

Answer 6

Electrical energy is converted to thermal energy

This process is essential for heating water efficiently.