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Energy and Work

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Energy is the ability to do work. It comes in many forms?such as kinetic energy (energy of motion), potential energy (stored energy), thermal energy (heat), chemical energy, and more. Work occurs when a force moves an object over a distance. The amount of work is calculated by multiplying force by distance (W = F ? d). Energy can change from one form to another, a process called energy transformation. For example, in a flashlight, chemical energy from the battery is transformed into electrical energy and then into light. The law of conservation of energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only changed in form. This principle explains why machines need a power source and why no machine is 100% efficient?some energy is always lost as heat. Understanding how energy and work interact helps engineers design more efficient systems and explains everything from how we move to how we power cities.

Key Points
The unit of work is the joule (J).
1 joule = 1 newton ? 1 meter.
Kinetic energy increases with speed.
Potential energy increases with height.
A stretched rubber band stores elastic potential energy.
Thermal energy is related to the motion of particles.
Energy transformation happens in engines.
Solar panels convert light into electrical energy.
Light energy travels in waves.
Batteries store chemical energy.
Hydroelectric dams convert water?s potential energy.
Electrical energy powers appliances.
Mechanical energy = kinetic + potential energy.
Energy efficiency is a key engineering goal.
Even your body uses chemical energy from food.
Work is done only when an object moves.
Energy can be transferred between objects.
Light bulbs convert electrical to light (and heat).
The sun is Earth?s main energy source.
Machines lose energy due to friction.
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