Conservation of mechanical energy — KCSE Physics
KCSE Physics · 69 practice questions · 9 syllabus objectives
What You'll Learn
Key learning outcomes for this topic, aligned to the KNEC KCSE syllabus.
Distinguish between elastic and inelastic collisions; apply conservation of momentum and energy to collision problems
State the law of conservation of energy and apply it to mechanical systems (KE + PE = constant)
Solve problems involving conversion between kinetic and potential energy for free-falling objects and pendulums
Distinguish between elastic and inelastic collisions in terms of kinetic energy conservation
Define energy, state its SI unit, derive KE = ½mv², and calculate kinetic, gravitational potential and elastic potential energy
State the law of conservation of energy; define transducers and describe energy transformations in systems
Apply conservation of energy to falling objects, inclines, pendulums, projectiles and springs
Define efficiency, calculate efficiency and energy wasted; apply the work-energy theorem and calculate power output
Conservation of mechanical energy
Sample Questions
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A ball is dropped from a height of 10 m. (a) Identify the form of energy it has just before it is dropped. (1 mark) (b) Identify the form of energy it has just before it hits the ground. (1 mark) (c) Explain how the principle of conservation of mechanical energy applies in this scenario. (2 marks)
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State two key differences between elastic and inelastic collisions in terms of kinetic energy conservation. (4 marks)
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A ball is dropped from a height of 10 m. Identify the potential energy of the ball at the top and the kinetic energy just before it hits the ground. (4 marks)
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A roller coaster car is at the highest point of a track. (a) State the type of energy it possesses at this point. (1 mark) (b) As it descends, describe what happens to its potential energy and kinetic energy. (3 marks)
Why Practise Conservation of mechanical energy?
KNEC Aligned
Questions match the KCSE syllabus objectives and exam format exactly.
Detailed Marking Schemes
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