Work and Power

What You'll Learn

Work in science means using a force to move an object a distance. If you push a box across the floor, you do work. If you push a wall and it doesn't move, no work is done.

Key Words

simple machine
lever

Materials Needed

toy cars
ramps
string
weights
tape
ruler

Safety First

Wear safety goggles when mixing liquids.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read and learn: Work in science means using a force to move an object a distance. If you push a box across the floor, you do work. If you push a wall and it doesn't move, no work is done.

Step 2 — Do

Gather your materials and set up your workspace.

Step 3 — Observe

Use your senses (except taste) to describe what you notice.

Step 4 — Record

Write a summary of your findings in 3-5 sentences.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What is work in science?