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Work done and energy transfer
This topic connects force, movement and energy transfer using the work done equation and real mechanical examples.
21
Objectives
105
Flashcards
105
Questions
90 min
Study time
AQAGCSEPhysicsForces
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Syllabus checklist
What you need to know
21 objective pages available
Work done by a force11 objectives
- Define work done as energy transferred when a force moves an object through a distance.
- State that one joule is one newton metre.
- Use the equation work done = force x distance moved along the line of action of the force.
- Calculate work done from force and distance.
- Calculate force from work done and distance.
- Calculate distance from work done and force.
- Identify the distance moved along the line of action of the force.
- Explain that work done against friction transfers energy to thermal stores.
- Explain that work done on an object can increase its kinetic energy store.
- Distinguish force from work done in calculations and explanations.
- Apply MS 3b and MS 3c skills when rearranging W = Fs.
Energy transfer and braking10 objectives
- Describe how braking forces transfer energy from a vehicle's kinetic energy store.
- Explain that braking often transfers energy to thermal stores in brakes and surroundings.
- Link larger braking forces to greater work done over a given distance.
- Explain why stopping distance depends on energy transfer by braking forces.
- Distinguish thinking distance from braking distance in stopping-distance contexts.
- Describe how increased speed increases the energy that must be dissipated during braking.
- Explain why excessive braking can make brakes overheat.
- Use work done ideas to explain safety features that increase stopping time or distance.
- Interpret simple data about braking force, distance and energy transfer.
- Apply proportional reasoning when comparing work done by different braking forces.
Key terms
Work DoneEnergy Transferjoulenewton metreForceDistanceDistance MovedFrictionKinetic Energybraking forcekinetic energybraking
Exam tips
- Understand Work Done: Remember that work done is defined as the energy transferred when a force moves an object through a distance. Always use the formula W = F x s to calculate work done.
- Understand Joules and Newton Metres: Remember that one joule is equivalent to one newton metre; use this relationship in calculations involving work done.
Common mistakes
- Confusing Work Done with Energy Transfer: To fix this, remember that work done is a specific case of energy transfer that occurs when a force causes an object to move. Focus on the definition: work done is energy transferred when a force moves an object through a distance.
- Confusion between Joules and Newton Metres: Remember that one joule is defined as one newton metre, which means they are equivalent and can be used interchangeably in the context of work done.
Practice preview
- Which option best applies work done for Work done by a force in AQA GCSE Physics Forces?
- Work done and energy transfer scenario: weight and normal contact force act on one object. Which answer best addresses Work done by a force and the objective to define work done as energy transferred when a force moves an object through a distance?
- Work done and energy transfer scenario: speed changes over a measured time interval. Which answer best addresses Work done by a force and the objective to define work done as energy transferred when a force moves an object through a distance?
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