AP Physics C Energy Review

Front

What is the principle of conservation of mechanical energy?

Back

The principle states that in a closed system with no non-conservative forces (like friction), the total mechanical energy (potential + kinetic) remains constant.

Front

Define kinetic energy and provide the formula.

Back

Kinetic energy (KE) is the energy of an object due to its motion. The formula is KE = 1/2 mv², where m is mass and v is velocity.

Front

What is potential energy and how is it calculated for an object at height h?

Back

Potential energy (PE) is the energy stored in an object due to its position in a gravitational field. It is calculated as PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is acceleration due to gravity, and h is height.

Front

Explain the concept of normal force in physics.

Back

Normal force is the force exerted by a surface to support the weight of an object resting on it, acting perpendicular to the surface.

Front

What is the relationship between work and energy?

Back

Work done on an object results in a change in its energy. The work-energy theorem states that the work done is equal to the change in kinetic energy.

Front

How do you calculate the power required to do work over time?

Back

Power (P) is calculated as the work done (W) divided by the time (t) taken, P = W/t.

Front

What is the formula for gravitational potential energy?

Back

The formula for gravitational potential energy is PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height above a reference point.

Front

Define the coefficient of kinetic friction and its significance.

Back

The coefficient of kinetic friction (μk) is a dimensionless scalar that represents the ratio of the force of friction between two bodies and the force pressing them together. It determines how easily one object moves over another.

Front

What is the formula for calculating the acceleration of an object given its change in velocity and time?

Back

Acceleration (a) is calculated using the formula a = (v_f - v_i) / t, where v_f is final velocity, v_i is initial velocity, and t is time.

Front

Explain the concept of free fall and its implications for kinetic energy.

Back

Free fall is the motion of an object under the influence of gravity alone. As it falls, its potential energy converts to kinetic energy, increasing its speed.