Energy diagrams are important tools in physics. They help us see how energy changes in different systems. Here are the main parts of energy diagrams:

1. Axes:

   • Vertical Axis: This shows the total energy of the system. It is usually measured in joules (J). This axis tells us about potential energy (PE) and kinetic energy (KE).
   • Horizontal Axis: This often shows time or where an object is located.

2. Energy States:

   • Potential Energy (PE): This is the energy stored in an object because of its position. For example, when we think about something like a ball held up high, its potential energy can be calculated using the formula:
     • (PE = mgh)
     • Here, (m) is mass, (g) is the force of gravity (about (9.81 \text{ m/s}^2)), and (h) is height.
   • Kinetic Energy (KE): This is the energy of an object that is moving. We can find it using the formula:
     • (KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2)
     • Here, (m) is mass and (v) is speed.

3. Energy Transfers:

   • The diagram shows how energy changes from one type to another, like from potential energy to kinetic energy. We can see this in action when something is falling or when a pendulum swings back and forth.

4. Closed Systems:

   • In a closed system, the total energy stays the same. This idea comes from the law of conservation of energy. For example, in a pendulum, energy keeps changing between potential and kinetic energy, but the total remains constant, creating a regular back-and-forth movement.

5. Key Points:

   • The highest point on the diagram shows maximum potential energy and minimum kinetic energy.
   • The lowest point shows maximum kinetic energy and minimum potential energy.

By understanding these parts, students can better analyze how energy changes and learn about energy conservation. Energy diagrams are very helpful in Year 10 physics for spotting energy changes in different mechanical systems.