Calculating energy efficiency and dissipation To calculate energy efficiency, the following formula is used:
percentage energy efficiency =
useful energy out energy in
× 100 1
To calculate energy dissipation, simply subtract the percentage energy efficiency from 100%. For example, if a device has 70% energy efficiency, then there must be 30% energy wasted.
EXAMPLE Question
A mobile phone charger uses 200 J: 180 J is used to charge the phone, while 20 J is emitted as heat in the plug. Calculate:
a. the energy efficiency of the device b. the energy dissipation of the device
Solution a. percentage energy efficiency =
useful energy out energy in
percentage energy efficiency = 180 J 200 J
percentage energy efficiency = 90%
b. percentage energy dissipation = 100% − % energy efficiency percentage energy dissipation = 100% − 90% percentage energy dissipation = 10%
) Fig. 29.15
× 100 1
× 100 1
FIGURE IT OUT!
1. A toaster uses 2200 J. Of this, 150 J escapes as heat. Calculate: a. the energy efficiency of the device b. the energy dissipation of the device
2. Calculate the energy efficiency of an electric bike that uses 3000 J of energy but only converts 2500 J into kinetic energy.
3. Calculate the percentage energy efficiency of the kettle represented in Fig. 29.16.