Technical Science - Term 2 - Week 1

Energy is defined as the ability to do work. It exists in various forms, including kinetic energy (energy of motion), potential energy (stored energy), thermal energy (heat), chemical energy (stored in chemical bonds), and electrical energy. Each form of energy can be transformed into another form, which is essential for various processes in nature and technology. For instance, when a car accelerates, chemical energy from the fuel is transformed into kinetic energy.

Consider a simple pendulum. At its highest point, the pendulum has maximum potential energy and minimal kinetic energy. As it swings down, potential energy is converted into kinetic energy. At the lowest point of the swing, the pendulum has maximum kinetic energy and minimal potential energy. This example illustrates the continuous transformation between potential and kinetic energy.

In pairs, students will analyze different scenarios provided by the teacher. For example, they will discuss the energy transformations that occur in a toaster, where electrical energy is transformed into thermal energy to toast bread. Each pair will present their findings to the class, highlighting the types of energy involved and the transformation process.

Students will select a common household appliance and create a poster that illustrates the energy transformations that occur within it. They should include diagrams, descriptions of the energy types involved, and real-world applications. This project will help reinforce their understanding of energy transformations and encourage creativity.

• Kinetic energy
• Potential energy
• Thermal energy
• Chemical energy

Answer: Potential energy

A compressed spring stores potential energy due to its position and tension.

• A rock sitting on a hill
• A battery powering a flashlight
• A car parked in a garage
• A book on a table

Answer: A battery powering a flashlight

The battery transforms chemical energy into electrical energy, which is then converted into light energy.

Answer: Kinetic energy is the energy of an object due to its motion.

Kinetic energy depends on the mass and velocity of the moving object.

• It increases
• It decreases
• It remains constant
• It transforms into thermal energy

Answer: It decreases

As an object falls, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases.

Answer: Heat from a stove while cooking.

The stove converts electrical energy into thermal energy, which heats the cooking surface.

• Chemical energy
• Nuclear energy
• Solar energy
• Mechanical energy

Answer: Solar energy

Photosynthesis uses solar energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

Answer: Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another.

This law states that the total energy in a closed system remains constant.