Transforming Forms of Energy!
Energy cannot be created or destroyed. The total energy in the universe stays the same no matter
what. However, energy can change forms. For example, energy in coal is used to turn turbines,
which generate electricity, that can be used to power lights.
For each question below, you will answer based on your current knowledge BEFORE the exploration and again
AFTER, adding to your answers or citing information that you already knew, that was in the exploration.
Before
After
1. How does
energy change
form when a
person rides a
bike?
2. Compare and
contrast a battery
with a yo-yo.
3. How does
energy change
form when a
rocket takes off?
Exploration
As each example is displayed, describe the form of energy into which the initial form is transformed
(how does it end?). Include an explanation of what is happening during the transformation.
Example
Initial Form
Changed Form
Explanation
Plucking
a guitar string
Riding a
bike
Solar
cooker
Mechanical
Chemical
Light
1.
Chemical
2.
3.
Compare and contrast a battery, yo-yo, and rock on a hill. Be sure to include details about energy
transformations.
Rocket
launching
Transforming Forms
– p. 39
lightbulb
mixer
candle
Shooting a
Rubber band
Putting a book
On the shelf
telephone
Cell phone
Windmill/
waterfall
Nuclear
Power
plant
Fossil fuel
(Coal)
Power plant