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Physics: Energy 3

Overview

In this topic, pupils build on their foundation knowledge of Energy from Year 7 and 9. This topic focuses on quantifying energy within stores – how much kinetic energy is stored, or how much energy is required to change an object’s state, for example. Pupils should also review the keywords from previous Energy topics in Year 7 and 9.

The main SMSC/Personal Development content of the topic includes: PD2 – Developing and deepening pupils’ understanding of mutual respect and tolerance (team and or group work).
PD16 – Use of imagination and creativity in their learning.
PD17 – Willingness to reflect on their experiences.

The main UN Rights of a Child are No. 13 – Sharing thoughts freely and No. 28 – Access to Education

Example Key Words

Kinetic Energy

The energy stored by a moving object. Calculated using the formula Ek = 1/2mv^2

Gravitational Potential Energy

The energy stored by an object raised in a gravitational field. Calculated using Ep = mgh

Elastic Potential Energy

The energy stored by an object that has been stretched or compressed. Calculated using Ee=1/2ke^2

Internal (Thermal) Energy

Thermal Energy is the internal energy stored by the particles in an object. The hotter said object is, the more those particles move and the more thermal energy it stores.

Temperature

Temperature is MEAN (average) thermal energy of an object or system.