How Machines Help Us (Part 3)

What You'll Learn

A force is a push or pull that can change an object's motion, shape, or direction. Forces are measured in Newtons and can act through contact or at a distance.

Key Words

pulley
inclined plane

Materials Needed

ruler
cardboard
marbles
paper clips
rubber bands

Safety First

Tie back long hair before starting the experiment.
Protect your work surface with newspaper or plastic.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read about Energy and write down three key facts.

Step 2 — Do

Set up a pendulum with string and a washer. Change the string length and count swings per minute for each. Graph your results.

Step 3 — Observe

Note any unexpected results and think about why they happened.

Step 4 — Record

Share your findings with the class or a partner and discuss what you learned.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

Which is an example of potential energy?