# A student uses a laptop computer for several hours each day. Describe how energy is usefully transferred by the laptop and explain how the waste energy transfer from the laptop could be reduced.

> WJEC GCSE Physics (Wales) — 1.3 Making use of energy · Describe and Explain · 4 marks

> A laptop computer has a power rating of 45 W. When in use, it becomes warm to the touch.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. The useful energy transfer is electrical energy transferred to light (screen) and/or sound (speakers)
2. The waste energy transfer is energy dissipated as heat/thermal energy to the surroundings
3. Lubrication of moving parts (e.g. the fan) reduces friction, so less energy is dissipated as heat
4. Thermal insulation could reduce the rate of heat transfer from the laptop to the surroundings, OR improving component design reduces waste energy transfer, increasing efficiency

## Key terms

- [waste energy transfer](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/waste-energy-transfer)

## Related

- [Revision notes for WJEC GCSE Physics (Wales)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe and 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-student-uses-a-laptop-computer-f2d88451) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.