Section 04 — Energy & Work

Course: LBS 120 – Physics with Lab

Learning Session

Explore These Materials: 1. Read (45 min) — Work‑Energy theorem; Potential energy (gravitational and spring) — short primer.
2. Watch (45 min) — Energy Skate Park (simulation overview); From forces to energy (lab demo).
3. Listen (30 min) — Energy vs Power in everyday devices (short segment).
4. Observe — Identify three daily activities and list the energy transformations (chemical → mechanical → thermal, etc.).

Key Quote Box

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Practice

1. Stair Climb — Estimate your work against gravity: measure mass, floors climbed, and compute mgh; discuss sources of error.
2. Spring Test — Measure a spring constant k (weights and ruler); estimate energy 1/2 kx^2 at two extensions; compare to “feel.”
3. Energy Accounting — Choose a system (pendulum, rolling ball). Describe energy transfers/losses (sound, heat, deformation) through a cycle.
4. Reflection — Distinguish energy (capacity to do work) from power (rate). Where did you mistake one for the other this week?

Hard Problem (Optional)

Two people carry the same load up the same height; one slowly, one quickly. Who does more work? Who expends more power? Where could total energy differ in practice?