Lab-Aids: Converting Gravitational Potential Energy to Kinetic Energy Kit
This kit introduces students to the concepts of kinetic and gravitational potential energy and the conversion of one form of energy into another. Students design and conduct an experiment to quantitatively test how the variables of mass and height affect the energy carried by a metal cylinder. The investigation in this activity allows students to explore energy transfer, the relationship of gravitational potential energy to mass and height, and the transformation of potential energy to kinetic energy. Developed by SEPUP.
Scientific Concepts:
Energy is associated with heat, light, electricity, mechanical motion, sound, nuclei, and the nature of a chemical
Energy is transferred in many ways
One way to gather data is through observations. Accurate and complete observations are important to making conclusions about the natural world
Students design and conduct an investigation
Students communicate scientific procedures and explanations
Content List:
1Teacher's Guide
28Student Worksheets and Guides
6Plastic tubes, 20-cm long clear
6Plastic tubes, 10-cm long clear
6Steel rods, 10-cm long
6Aluminum rods, 10-cm long
6Steel rods, 5-cm long
6Aluminum rods, 5-cm long
12Nails
12Foam blocks
1Transparency: Sample Procedure and Data Table
Classroom Planning:
To complete this kit requires approximately one ~50-minute class periods