Forms of Energy Big Idea

Energy

the ability to do work

Heat (thermal energy)

the flow of thermal energy from one substance to another; moves from an object with a higher temperature to an object with a lower temperature

light energy

energy from the sun that we see; light travels in a straight line until it hits an object

electrical energy

energy carried by an electric charge; measured in joules (j); ex: a light bulb turning on

sound energy

kinetic energy that is produced by moving particle of matter; begins with a vibration

mechanical energy

energy that an object gains when work is done on it; occurs when potential and kinetic energy combine

chemical energy

energy released when a chemical reaction takes place

solar energy

energy from sunlight

hydroelectric energy

electricity that is produced using the energy of water moving through a dam

closed circuit

a circuit without interruption; provides a continuous path through which a current can flow

open circuit

a broken path for an electrical current due to an open switch or frayed wire

insulator

material that electricity does not move through easily such as wood, glass, or plastic

conductor

material that electricity passes through easily such as metal or water

electricity

a form of energy that is produced when electrons move from one place go another place

battery

a man-made power cell used to generate electrical energy

motion

a change in an object’s position over time

switch

an electrical component that can disconnect or connect the conducting path in an electrical circuit, interrupting the electric current or diverting it from one conductor to another

transform

the change from one form to another

static electricity

the buildup of electrons on an object or material

repel

to push away from; two objects with like charges will push away from each other

attract

to pull toward without touching; two objects with opposite charges will be attracted to each other

friction

a force between two surfaces rubbing against each other; works against motion.