Energy

Energy is the ability of a body to do work, so work is the transfer of energy to an object by the applying of a force that modifies its position or direction. So energy keeps the world moving.

POTENTIAL ENERGY is the energy related on the shape, position or condition of a body.

Gravitational energy depends on the mass of the object, the acceleration of gravity, that is given as 9,8 m/s2, and the height of the object.

PE=mgh

KINETIC ENERGY is the energy related to the change of position, shape or condition of a body.

Kinetic energy depends on the mass of the object and its speed. To obtain the value, you must multiply half of the mass times speed squared:

KE=1/2mv2

Let's play with energy. You will need:

Toy cars, Different sized balls, String, Scale, Metric tape, Chronometer, Cardboard, Ruler, Tables or benches.

PROCEDURE

1. Use the toys, balls, strings and tables to assemble the sets shown in the pictures.

2. Measure the mass of the objects, the length at which they are located and the possible distance traveled.

3. Calculate the gravitational potential energy of the systems.

4. Activate the systems (put them in movement) and take the time it lasts.

5. Calculate the speed and with the result, find the kinetic energy. For this, remember that you may need to calculate the speed of the objects.

6. You can use a chart or a graph to show the potential and kinetic energy of the systems.