# A cyclist wants to improve the efficiency of their bicycle. Explain how lubrication can improve the efficiency of the bicycle, and describe what happens to the energy that is wasted when no lubrication is used.

> Eduqas GCSE Physics — 1.3 Making use of energy · Explain · 4 marks

> Friction acts between the moving metal parts of a bicycle's chain and gears. A cyclist applies oil to these parts before a long ride.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Lubrication reduces the friction between moving parts / between chain and gears
2. Less energy is transferred as a waste energy transfer (e.g. less heat produced at the surfaces)
3. More of the input energy becomes useful energy transfer (e.g. kinetic energy of the bicycle)
4. Without lubrication, wasted energy is transferred to the surroundings as heat / thermal energy (due to friction between the surfaces)

## Key terms

- [lubrication](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/lubrication)
- [efficiency](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/efficiency)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Physics](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-cyclist-wants-to-improve-the-e6534572) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.