Efficiency (Edexcel GCSE Physics): Flashcards

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Efficiency
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What does efficiency measure

How well a device converts input energy to useful energy

Characteristic of a highly efficient device

Wastes little energy

Characteristic of an inefficient device

Wastes most of its input energy

Where wasted energy typically goes

Dissipated as heat in the surroundings

Formula for efficiency

Useful energyTotal energy×100%\frac{\text{Useful energy}}{\text{Total energy}} \times 100\%

Unit for measuring energy

Joules (J)

Maximum possible efficiency value

Less than 100%

Why no device can be >100% efficient

Law of conservation of energy - energy cannot be created

How lubrication improves efficiency

Reduces friction between moving parts, preventing heat loss

How insulation improves efficiency

Reduces dissipation of thermal energy to surroundings

What causes wasted heat in mechanical work

Friction from moving parts and air resistance

Conservation of energy equation

Total=Useful Output+Wasted Energy\text{Total} = \text{Useful Output} + \text{Wasted Energy}

Method to reduce air resistance

Streamline shapes

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