Work through the list without notes. If you cannot do a statement, follow its link, then come back. Guide = study guide; Practice = practice questions.
Understanding
- I can list the energies a system can have, and explain why a single-object system can only have kinetic energy. (Guide: “What energies can a system have?”; Practice Q1)
- I can define mechanical energy as K + U and state the two conditions for it to stay constant. (Guide: “When is mechanical energy constant?”)
- I can explain that energy is conserved in every interaction, and that a system’s energy changes only when outside forces do work on it. (Guide: “The energy rule”; Practice Q1)
- I can explain where mechanical energy goes when friction or air resistance acts. (Guide: Worked example 3; Practice Q6, Q7)
Skills
- I can choose a system so that its total energy is constant, and justify the choice. (Guide: “Choosing the system”; Practice Q6)
- I can derive v = √(2gh) for a smooth drop and use it with numbers. (Guide: Worked example 1; Practice Q2)
- I can find a speed or height when the object already has some kinetic energy at the start. (Practice Q5)
- I can solve a problem with spring, gravitational and kinetic energy together. (Guide: Worked example 2)
- I can draw energy bar charts whose totals agree at every moment, including a thermal-energy bar when friction acts. (Guide: Figure 1; Practice Q6)
- I can calculate the mechanical energy dissipated from start and end values. (Guide: Worked example 3; Practice Q6)
Reasoning
- I can predict factors of change, such as four times the launch height for twice the spring compression. (Guide: Worked example 2; Practice Q3)
- I can explain why mass, path shape and launch direction do not affect the final speed in smooth, air-free motion. (Guide: “Comparing scenarios with energy”; Practice Q2, Q4)
- I can linearise data (v² against h) and use the slope to support or refute a claim that mechanical energy is conserved. (Practice Q7)
All ticked? Move on to Topic 3.5, Power, or return to the course roadmap.