Potential Energy

Performance Expectation

MS-PS3-2: Develop a model to describe that when the arrangement of objects interacting at a distance changes, different amounts of potential energy are stored in the system.

In Student-Friendly Words...

I can explain how the position of objects affects the amount of potential energy they store.

Big Ideas

Potential energy is stored energy.
Changing the position of objects changes their potential energy.
Gravity and magnetic forces can store potential energy.
Potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy when an object begins to move.

Interactive Learning

Watch & Learn

Real-World Connections

Roller Coasters

A roller coaster has more gravitational potential energy when it is higher, which can later become kinetic energy as it drops.

Sports Equipment

A stretched bow, compressed spring, or stretched rubber band stores potential energy that can be released to create motion.

Hydroelectric Dams

Water stored high behind a dam has potential energy that can eventually be converted into electricity.

Everyday Objects

Understanding stored energy helps engineers design everything from car suspension systems to toys and safety equipment.

Take It Further

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