A hybrid car has an electric motor and a petrol engine - AQA - GCSE Physics Combined Science - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 3
A hybrid car has an electric motor and a petrol engine.
Petrol is a non-renewable energy resource.
What is meant by a non-renewable energy resource? [1 mark]
____... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A hybrid car has an electric motor and a petrol engine - AQA - GCSE Physics Combined Science - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
What is meant by a non-renewable energy resource?
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
A non-renewable energy resource is an energy source that cannot be replenished as it is used. This means that once it is consumed, it will run out, such as fossil fuels like petrol.
Step 2
Calculate the current used to charge the battery.
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
To find the current, we can use the formula for power:
P=VimesI
Where:
P is the power in watts (W)
V is the voltage in volts (V)
I is the current in amperes (A)
Given:
Power, P = 6.9 kW = 6900 W
Voltage, V = 230 V
Rearranging the formula to find current:
I=VP
Substituting the values:
I=2306900
Calculating gives:
I=30A
Step 3
Explain the difference between direct and alternating potential difference.
96%
101 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Direct potential difference (DC) is a constant flow of electric charge in one direction, meaning the current always travels in the same direction. In contrast, alternating potential difference (AC) involves changing directions, where the current alternates its path periodically.
Step 4
Explain why it is better to use a cable with a low resistance than to use a cable with a high resistance.
98%
120 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Using a cable with a low resistance minimizes power loss as heat, allowing for more efficient energy transfer from the mains supply to the battery. A low-resistance cable reduces the energy dissipation, hence the battery charges faster and remains cooler compared to a high-resistance cable.