A train is powered by a diesel engine - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 2 - 2013 - Paper 1
Question 2
A train is powered by a diesel engine.
The diesel engine is used to turn a generator.
The generator provides electricity for electric motors which drive the wheels.
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Worked Solution & Example Answer:A train is powered by a diesel engine - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 2 - 2013 - Paper 1
Step 1
Draw one straight line from each train part to its useful energy transfer.
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Answer
For the diesel engine, the useful energy transfer is chemical to electrical. For the generator, it is electrical to kinetic. For the motor, it is kinetic to electrical.
Step 2
Calculate the amount of energy wasted in one second in the generator.
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Answer
To calculate the wasted energy, subtract the useful energy from the energy supplied:
extEnergywasted=1400extkJ−1300extkJ=100extkJ
Step 3
Calculate the efficiency of the generator.
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