Energy — WJEC GCSE Physics
In summary: Energy is a key topic in WJEC GCSE Physics. Key exam tip: Always state the formula used before substituting values
Exam Tips for Energy
- Always state the formula used before substituting values
- Ensure all units are consistent (e.g., converting minutes to seconds for power calculations)
- Use Sankey diagrams to clearly represent energy redistribution and efficiency
- Remember that 'work done' is force multiplied by distance in the direction of the force
- Be prepared to explain the role of free electrons in thermal conduction in metals
Common Mistakes
- Confusing energy stores with energy transfers
- Incorrectly identifying the system boundaries when applying conservation of energy
- Failing to convert units to SI base units before performing calculations
- Misinterpreting the relationship between power ratings and energy transfer rates in domestic appliances
- Neglecting to account for dissipated energy when calculating efficiency
Marking Points
- Description of energy storage changes in common situations like objects projected upwards or hitting obstacles
- Application of the principle of conservation of energy in closed systems
- Calculation of kinetic energy, gravitational potential energy, and elastic potential energy
- Calculation of energy changes due to heating using specific heat capacity and specific latent heat
- Calculation of work done by forces and electrical energy transfers
- Definition and calculation of power as the rate of energy transfer
- Explanation of energy dissipation and methods to reduce unwanted transfers
- Comparison of renewable and non-renewable energy sources
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