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AP Physics 1 3.5 Power Overview

Describe power as the rate at which energy is transferred or converted, and relate average power to energy and elapsed time.

Syllabus
Effective Fall 2025
Course
AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based

Exam points

  • Calculate average power from the energy transferred or converted and the time required.

3.5 Power question 1

[Maximum number: 7]
Figure for Question 3.5 Power question 1 — AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based

(7 points, suggested time 13 minutes)
A motor is a device that when connected to a battery converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. The motor shown above is used to lift a block of mass M at constant speed from the ground to a height H above the ground in a time interval Δt\Delta t. The motor has constant resistance and is connected in series with a resistor of resistance R1R_{1} and a battery.
Mechanical power, the rate at which mechanical work is done on the block, increases if the potential difference (voltage drop) between the two terminals of the motor increases.

Question (a)

(a)

Determine an expression for the mechanical power in terms of M,H,ΔtM, H, \Delta t, and physical constants, as appropriate.

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Question (b)

(b)

Without M or H being changed, the time interval Δt\Delta t can be decreased by adding one resistor of resistance R2R_{2}, where R2>R1R_{2}>R_{1}, to the circuit shown above. How should the resistor of resistance R2R_{2} be added to the circuit to decrease Δt\Delta t ?

In parallel with the battery In parallel with R1R_{1} In parallel with the motor In series with the battery, R1R_{1}, and the motor

In a clear, coherent, paragraph-length response that may also contain figures and/or equations, justify why your selection would decrease Δt\Delta t.

Figure for Question (b) — AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based
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