Physics Concepts and Definitions

Front

Electromagnetic Induction

Back

The process of generating electric current with a magnetic field. It occurs whenever a magnetic field and an electric conductor, such as a coil of wire, move relative to one another. As long as the conductor is part of a closed circuit, current will flow through it whenever it crosses field lines in the magnetic field.

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Gravity

Back

Force of attraction between any two masses.

Front

Gravitational Field

Back

The force field that surrounds all objects with mass and attracts other objects.

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Potential Energy

Back

Energy that is stored in an object and has the ability to do work; the amount is based on its position.

Front

Kinetic Energy

Back

The energy an object has because it is moving; the amount is based on its mass and velocity (velocity has a greater impact).

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Density

Back

The relationship between the mass of a substance and how much space it takes up (volume). The mass of atoms, their size, and how they are arranged determine the density of a substance. Density equals the mass of the substance divided by its volume; D = m/v.

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Electric Field

Back

The area around every charged object where another charged object is affected by the electric force.

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Magnetic Field

Back

The area around every magnet where magnetic force affect magnetic objects.

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Odor

Back

Perceived smells that come from an odorant or mixture of odorants. An odorant is a chemical stimulus that is capable of creating a smell.

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Energy

Back

The ability to do work, like making something move or change, that can’t be created or destroyed.