1. Understand the Core Concepts Clearly
Topic A.3 in the IB Physics syllabus covers:
- Work, energy (KE, GPE, EPE), power, efficiency,
- Conservation of energy,
- Sankey diagrams and practical calculations.
RevisionDojo offers concise notes and explanations to help you avoid confusion and focus on concept clarity. (revisiondojo.com)
2. Build a Simple Problem-Solving Framework
A. Identify what you know:
- Force, distance, or energy values
- System type (closed/open) and relevant forms (KE, GPE, etc.)
B. Apply step-by-step relationships:
- Use W=F×sW = F \times s, KE=12mv2KE = \tfrac{1}{2}mv^2, ΔGPE=mgh\Delta GPE = mgh, EPE=12kΔx2EPE = \tfrac{1}{2}k\Delta x^2
- Apply conservation of energy if frictionless or add dissipative losses otherwise.
C. Represent energy flows:
- Draw simplified Sankey diagrams showing useful vs wasted outputs.
RevisionDojo’s A.3 section includes worked examples that model this logical structure. (revisiondojo.com)
3. Practice with Focused Questions
Start with targeted A.3 question sets—such as calculating KE/GPE changes, efficiency, or power rates—and then move onto mixed-topic quizzes. RevisionDojo provides flashcards and quizzes combined with quick AI feedback. (revisiondojo.com)
4. Use Flashcards to Retain Key Formulas
Retaining formulas is crucial:
- W=FsW = F s
- Ek=12mv2E_k = \tfrac{1}{2}mv^2
- ΔGPE=mgh\Delta GPE = mgh
- EH=12kΔx2E_H = \tfrac{1}{2}k\Delta x^2
- Efficiency: η=useful output energytotal input energy\eta = \frac{\text{useful output energy}}{\text{total input energy}}
RevisionDojo integrates flashcards with spaced repetition, which reinforces accuracy without overthinking. (revisiondojo.com)
5. Avoid Overthinking with Conceptual Anchors
Many students overthink problems by mixing units or systems unnecessarily. Instead:
- Stick to energy conservation first.
- Use energy diagrams instead of jumping to equations.
- Check units at each step.
RevisionDojo’s simplified notes emphasize these thinking strategies to prevent confusion. (revisiondojo.com)
✅ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need to memorize every energy formula?
A: You should know the core formulas, but more importantly, understand when to apply each based on what you're given.
Q: Are Sankey diagrams mandatory in answers?
A: Not mandatory, but they help clarify energy flow and often aid in discussing efficiency or wasted energy.
Q: How many practice questions should I do?
A: Start with 10–15 per subtopic (e.g. work calculations, efficiency), then mix into full mock Paper 1 sections with energy data.
✅ Conclusion
Mastering Topic A.3 doesn’t require depth overload—just clarity, structure, and targeted practice. Use RevisionDojo’s structured notes, AI‑enhanced flashcards, and question bank to build confidence in energy systems quickly and reliably.
🎯 Call to Action
- Explore RevisionDojo’s A.3 Work, Energy & Power topic page for notes, questions, and flashcards
- Use AI feedback to reinforce understanding and track weak areas
- Practice mixed-topic quizzes and timed Paper 1 drills for real exam practice
