Energy Types and Transformations Experiments
Grade 7 Science Hands-On Learning Adventure 60-Minute Interactive Session
What is Energy?
Energy is the ability to do work or cause change Energy cannot be created or destroyed Energy can transform from one type to another Energy is all around us in many different forms
Types of Energy We'll Explore Today
{"left":"Kinetic Energy - energy of motion\nPotential Energy - stored energy\nThermal Energy - heat energy","right":"Chemical Energy - energy in bonds\nLight Energy - electromagnetic radiation"}
Experiment Station 1: Pendulum Power
Observe potential and kinetic energy transformation Measure swing height at different positions Record observations about energy changes Discuss: Where is energy highest? Lowest?
Experiment Station 2: Solar Panel Challenge
Test solar panels under different light conditions Measure voltage output with multimeter Compare LED, flashlight, and sunlight sources Graph results and identify patterns
Experiment Station 3: Chemical Energy Release
Safely observe baking soda and vinegar reaction Measure temperature changes with thermometer Note gas production and fizzing Identify energy transformations occurring
Energy Transformation Challenge
Think about riding a bicycle uphill What energy transformations are happening? Where does the energy come from originally? How many different energy types can you identify?
What We Discovered Today
Energy exists in many forms around us Energy constantly transforms from one type to another We can measure and observe these transformations Understanding energy helps us solve real-world problems Next: We'll explore energy in space and planetary systems