Speed, Velocity, and Acceleration

What You'll Learn

Speed measures how fast an object moves (distance divided by time). Velocity includes both speed and direction. An object changing direction is accelerating even at constant speed.

Key Words

kinetic
potential
work

Materials Needed

cardboard
marbles
paper clips
rubber bands
blocks
spring scale

Safety First

Be careful with scissors — ask an adult for help if needed.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Study the diagram and label the parts you recognize.

Step 2 — Do

Create a Rube Goldberg machine with at least 5 steps that demonstrates energy transfer from one form to another.

Step 3 — Observe

Observe what happens and describe it in detail.

Step 4 — Record

Record your observations in your science journal with measurements and descriptions.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What is velocity?