Energy Calculations

Analyzing Transfer of Energy Using Symbols!

Mr. Schrader - 04/05/22

Energy Transfer

Rolling a Ball

If we were to roll a ball down the top of a hill, the total energy will not change. This means that the initial energy of the ball, Ei, at the top of the ramp, equals its final energy, Ei, at the bottom of the ramp.

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Our equation is ​Ei = Ef

The i and f are tiny... meaning subscript!

Energy Transfer

Initial Energy

The total Initial Energy, Ei, is equal to the initial kinetic energy, KEi plus the initial potential energy, PEi! The total final energy of the ball, Ef is equal to the final kinetic energy, KEf, plus the final potential energy, PEf.

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Our equation is KE_i + PE_i = KE_f + PE_f​

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For the remainder of class: Work in your table groups to compete our "What is Energy?" worksheet!