Physics A-Level
Sign and direction in energy calculations
What Sign and direction in energy calculations means in Physics A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Sign and direction in energy calculations
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Sign and direction in energy calculations in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
If θ = 180°, cos 180° = −1, so W = −Fx, meaning energy is transferred away from the object.
Topics that use Sign and direction in energy calculations
- Work and conservation of energy (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Conservation of energy
- Dissipation and efficiency
- Energy stores and forms
- Resolution of forces
- The joule
- Energy transfer pathways
- Scalar nature of work
- Work as a transfer of energy
Using Sign and direction in energy calculations in the exam
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