Conservation of Energy

Performance Expectation

MS-PS3-5: Construct, use, and present arguments to support the claim that when the kinetic energy of an object changes, energy is transferred to or from the object.

In Student-Friendly Words...

I can use evidence to explain how energy is transferred when an object's motion changes.

Big Ideas

Energy can be transferred to or from an object.
Energy can change between different forms, such as kinetic, potential, and thermal energy.
Scientists can use evidence such as changes in motion or temperature to track energy transfers.
Energy is not simply lost—it is transferred or changed into another form.

Interactive Learning

Newton's Cradle

Conservation of Mechanical Energy

Energy Forms and Changes

Watch & Learn

Conservation of energy | Khan Academy

Conservation of Energy: Free Fall,
Springs, and Pendulums

Energy Transformations – Law of Conservation of Energy

Conservation Of Energy Principle

Real-World Connections

Roller Coasters

Energy changes from potential to kinetic and back again as a roller coaster moves through its track.

Electric Cars

Energy stored in a battery is transformed into electrical and mechanical energy that makes the car move.

Power Plants

Power plants transform energy from sources such as moving water, wind, fuel, or sunlight into electrical energy.

Everyday Devices

Your phone, laptop, flashlight, and gaming system all transform energy from one form into another.

Take It Further

Particles in Motion

Add a drop of food coloring to three clear glasses of water: one cold, one warm, and one hot. Without stirring, observe how quickly the food coloring spreads through each glass. Compare the results and think about how the temperature of the water affects the motion of the particles.

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