Physicists use the concept of a system to trace and
quantify the flow of energy. In this session, take a close look
at a number of energy systems and see how this concept is closely
linked to the Law of Conservation of Energy.
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Program Questions
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Answers
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1. How can we reconcile the law of conservation
of energy with everyday experience?
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We can reconcile the law of conservation
of energy with everyday experience by accounting for energy
in terms of systems. Any "missing" energy can be
accounted for by looking for energy conversions and transfers
out of the system, even if they are not obvious at first.
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2. What is a system?
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A system is an object or objects around
which we can draw an imaginary boundary to keep track of inputs,
outputs and internal changes.
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3. How can systems be useful in thinking
about energy?
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Systems enable us to make predictions,
take better measurements, and improve our energy efficiency.
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4. What are some practical applications
of energy systems?
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The systems approach is critical in
helping us understand energy flow in terms of inputs, outputs
and internal change — even with phenomena not usually
thought of in terms of energy.
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