ES: Does a Engine At Idle Have Potential Energy?

In summary: So in summary, an engine at idle does have potential energy in the form of chemical potential energy in the fuel. This potential energy is released when the fuel is burned, breaking chemical bonds and allowing the engine to produce power to move the airplane. However, there is no absolute potential for an engine and potential energy is only meaningful when compared to a reference point.
  • #1
mispoken
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Hello, Curious to know, does an engine at idle have potential energy? For instance would an airplane sitting at the end of a runway at idle ready for takeoff have potential energy?

Thanks
P
 
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  • #2
Yes, it's the chemical potential energy in the fuel.

Hit the gas-->Burn fuel-->Break chemical bonds-->VROOOM!
 
  • #3
Tom Mattson said:
Yes, it's the chemical potential energy in the fuel.

Hit the gas-->Burn fuel-->Break chemical bonds-->VROOOM!
The fuel is quite a different object than an engine unless you're talking about the fuel that is already inside the engine.

There is no meaning to an absolute potential for anything. Only differences of potential have meaning. Normally a reference location is chosen and the difference with respect to that reference point is said to be the potential of the object with respect to that location.

Discounting the fuel there is no mechanical potential energy if the reference location is chosen to be ground level (discounting height about runway that is). I don't recall anything inside an airplane engine which can be referred to as mechanical potential. But as Tom said there is chemical potential energy in the fuel.

Pete
 
  • #4
pmb_phy said:
The fuel is quite a different object than an engine unless you're talking about the fuel that is already inside the engine.

Yes, that's what I mean.
 

FAQ: ES: Does a Engine At Idle Have Potential Energy?

What is potential energy in a car engine at idle?

Potential energy in a car engine at idle refers to the energy stored within the engine's internal components, such as the pistons, crankshaft, and valves, when the engine is not in use. This energy is waiting to be converted into kinetic energy to power the car.

How is potential energy generated in a car engine at idle?

Potential energy in a car engine at idle is generated through various processes, such as fuel combustion, air compression, and mechanical movements of the internal components. These processes store energy in the form of potential energy, which can then be converted into kinetic energy when the car is in motion.

Can potential energy in a car engine at idle be used for other purposes?

Yes, potential energy in a car engine at idle can be used for other purposes, such as powering auxiliary systems like air conditioning, headlights, and radio. This is possible through the use of a device called an alternator, which converts the potential energy into electrical energy.

How does potential energy in a car engine at idle affect fuel efficiency?

Potential energy in a car engine at idle can negatively affect fuel efficiency if the engine is left idling for extended periods. This is because the engine continues to use fuel to maintain its internal processes, even when the car is not in motion. It is recommended to turn off the engine when the car is not in use to conserve fuel.

Is potential energy in a car engine at idle a renewable source of energy?

No, potential energy in a car engine at idle is not a renewable source of energy. It is generated through the consumption of non-renewable resources, such as gasoline or diesel. Therefore, it is important to use this energy efficiently and limit its use when the car is not in motion.

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