72
Lesson 72 of 84 · Simple Electricity
ExperimentPotential Energy: Stored Energy (Part 3)
What You'll Learn
Potential energy is stored energy based on position or condition. A ball at the top of a hill has gravitational potential energy. A stretched rubber band has elastic potential energy.
Key Words
- force
- energy
Materials Needed
- ramps
- string
- weights
- tape
- ruler
Safety First
- Use materials only as directed in the experiment.
- Keep small objects away from young children.
- Work in a well-ventilated area when using vinegar or other strong-smelling substances.
Steps
Step 1 — Read
Study the diagram and label the parts you recognize.
Step 2 — Do
Test friction: pull a weighted box across 4 surfaces (carpet, tile, sandpaper, foil). Use a spring scale to measure the force needed for each.
Step 3 — Observe
Use your senses (except taste) to describe what you notice.
Step 4 — Record
Write a summary of your findings in 3-5 sentences.
Check Your Understanding
Question 1
1 of 3What type of energy does a stretched rubber band have?