NST1502
Assignment 4
PORTFOLIO 2024 -
DUE 8 October
2024
QUESTIONS WITH DETAILED ANSWERS
,NST1502 Assignment 4 PORTFOLIO 2024 - DUE 8 October 2024
QUESTION 1
Energy Basics [18 marks]
1.1 Define and explain the different forms of energy, providing real-world examples for
each. (Focus on the following forms of energy; Kinetic energy; potential energy; thermal
energy; chemical energy; electrical energy, light energy, and sound energy). (14)
1.2 Discuss the concept of energy transformation, giving examples of how one form of
energy can be converted into another. (4)
1.1 Forms of Energy (14 marks)
Energy exists in various forms, and each form has unique characteristics and real-world
examples. Here's a breakdown of the key forms of energy:
1. Kinetic Energy
Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion. The faster an object
moves, the more kinetic energy it has.
Example: A moving car has kinetic energy because of its motion. Similarly, a flowing
river also demonstrates kinetic energy through the movement of water.
2. Potential Energy
Potential energy is the stored energy an object has because of its position or
configuration. This energy has the potential to be converted into other forms of energy.
Example: A rock held at the top of a hill has gravitational potential energy due to its
elevated position. When the rock rolls down, this energy is converted into kinetic
energy.
, 3. Thermal Energy
Thermal energy (or heat energy) is the energy an object possesses due to the motion of
its particles. It’s directly related to temperature.
Example: A cup of hot coffee has thermal energy due to the fast-moving molecules
inside it. The warmth you feel from the coffee is this energy being transferred to your
hands.
4. Chemical Energy
Chemical energy is stored in the bonds between atoms and molecules. This energy is
released or absorbed during a chemical reaction.
Example: The energy stored in gasoline is chemical energy. When gasoline burns in a
car engine, the chemical energy is converted into kinetic energy that moves the vehicle.
5. Electrical Energy
Electrical energy results from the movement of electrons through a conductor, such as a
wire. It is widely used in powering machines and devices.
Example: A light bulb glows because electrical energy is used to heat the filament,
creating light energy. Batteries store chemical energy and release it as electrical energy
when connected to a circuit.
6. Light Energy
Light energy (or radiant energy) is a form of electromagnetic radiation visible to the
human eye. It travels in waves and can move through a vacuum.
Example: The sunlight we receive is light energy, which enables plants to perform
photosynthesis. It is also used in solar panels to generate electricity.
7. Sound Energy
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