Energy and energy flow

Forms of energy

Different forms of energy: potential (chemical, nuclear, and gravitational), solar, kinetic and heat.

Energy and power and their units.

Energy as the ability to do work and measured in J (joules). Power as the rate of energy use and measured in W (Watts) or J/s Js^-1 (Joules per second).

How energy consumption is measured in kWH.

Energy and its transformation.

The sun as the major source of energy. Photosynthesis as a process through which light energy is transformed into food energy which is taken up by animals.

Energy transformations that must take place in order to use the energy stored in fossil and nuclear fuels. Comparison of the efficiency and losses of the different types of power plants (nuclear, fossil fuel, and solar). Candidates are also expected to be able to work out simple calculations on energy transformations.

Electromagnetic spectrum.

The relationship between wavelength and frequency of radiation. The electromagnetic spectrum as a continuous range of radiation ranging from low energy waves to high-energy waves. Candidates must also understand that all waves have similar properties and travel at the same speed and that the difference is only in the frequency and wavelength.