Unit 4: Energy Transformations & Circuits

Energy

The ability to do work or cause change.

Chemical Energy

The energy stored in the bonds of chemical compounds.

Mechanical Energy

The energy of motion and moving parts.

Electrical Energy

The energy of charged particles called electrons.

Light Energy

The energy of photons that travel in straight lines; energy we can see.

Thermal Energy

The total energy of moving particles that make up an object.

Sound Energy

The energy of vibrations; energy we can hear.

Transform

To change form.

Battery

The source of power in an electrical circuit.

Circuit

A complete path around which electricity can flow.

Series Circuit

An electrical circuit where components are connected end-to-end in a single path.

Parallel Circuit

An electrical circuit with multiple paths for current to flow, allowing components to operate independently.

Current

The flow of electricity in a circuit.

Output Device

A component added to a circuit for energy transformations, such as a lightbulb, motor, or bell.