The Simple Pendulum

A Classic Case Study

New Core Curriculum:

Foundations of Scientific Process

Mechanical energy

Chemical energy

Radiant energy

Electrical energy

Nuclear energy

Various Forms of Energies

Let’s review from last time….

Forms of Energy Nuclear

Electrical

RadiantChemical

Mechanical

Hea

t Eng

ine

Fric

tion

Elec

toly

sis,

ch

argi

ng st

orag

e ba

tter

y

Batt

ery,

Fue

l Cel

l

Oxidation

Photosynthesis

Electric Motor

Electric GeneratorG

amm

a

Fusi

on

Solarcell

Light-bulb

Friction,burning

Heat engines

ENERGY =WORK +

HEAT

• In colloquial language, ENERGY is equated with vigor, liveliness and vitality

• In science, ENERGY is defined as the ability to do work and transfer heat

Don’t Confuse Power, Work & Energy…

WORK not concerned with a nature of the task, tiredness, etc.

defined as force acting through certain distance

units: Joules, calories (cal), nutritional Calorie (kcal)

Don’t Confuse Power, Work & Energy…

HEAT energy of atomic / molecular motion

this energy always flows from warmer to cooler object

units: Joules, calories (cal), nutritional Calorie (kcal)

Don’t Confuse Power, Work & Energy…

POWERP = W / t

work being done in a certain time frame

units: [J/s = Watts, horse power: 1 hp = 746 W]

Don’t Confuse Power, Work & Energy…

Energy Can Be Classified As Kinetic (KE) or Potential (PE) Energy

PE can be converted to KE and KE can be converted to PE

Etotal = KE + PE

Activity: The Simple Pendulum A Hands-on Case Study

The Period vs. Angle

Relative Masses of the Bobs

Cork 16g Chrome 66 g

Wood 58 g Brass 72 g

Aluminum 26 g Steel 95 g