Simple Machines: Inclined Planes

What You'll Learn

Electromagnets are temporary magnets created by running electricity through a coiled wire. They can be turned on and off and are used in motors, speakers, and MRI machines.

Key Words

kinetic energy
potential energy

Materials Needed

cardboard
marbles
paper clips
rubber bands
blocks
spring scale

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

Read the introduction and identify the main idea of this lesson.

Step 2 — Do

Test Newton's Third Law: blow up a balloon, attach it to a straw on a string, and release. Measure how far it travels with different amounts of air.

Step 3 — Observe

Observe what happens and describe it in detail.

Step 4 — Record

Record your observations in your science journal with measurements and descriptions.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

Which simple machine is a ramp?