Converting Gravitational Potential Energy to Kinetic Energy (Developed by SEPUP)
kit #207S
This kit introduces students to the concepts of kinetic and gravitational potential energy and the conversion of one form of energy into another. Students design and conduct an experiment to quantitatively test how the variables of mass and height affect the energy carried by a metal cylinder. The investigation in this activity allows students to explore energy transfer, the relationship of gravitational potential energy to mass and height, and the transformation of potential energy to kinetic energy.
- Energy is associated with heat, light, electricity, mechanical motion, sound, nuclei, and the nature of a chemical
- Energy is transferred in many ways
- One way to gather data is through observations. Accurate and complete observations are important to making conclusions about the natural world
- Students design and conduct an investigation
- Students communicate scientific procedures and explanations
Content List in Converting Gravitational Potential Energy to Kinetic Energy (Developed by SEPUP) is as follows:
| Quantity | Description |
|---|---|
| 12 | Foam blocks |
| 12 | Nails |
| 6 | Plastic tubes, 20-cm long clear |
| 6 | Plastic tubes, 10-cm long clear |
| 6 | Steel rods, 10-cm long |
| 6 | Aluminum rods, 10-cm long |
| 6 | Steel rods, 5-cm long |
| 6 | Aluminum rods, 5-cm long |
| 1 | Transparency: Sample Procedure and Data Table |
| 28 | Student Worksheets and Guides |
| 1 | Teacher’s Guide |
- Recommended number of students
- maximum 24 per class
- Number of groups
- 6 per class
- Number of classes
- unlimited (no consumable materials)
To complete this kit requires two to three 50-minute class period.
