6 Forms of Energy
Explain
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Directions
1. For the explain portion of the section, work through each
slide (one slide for each of the 6 forms of energy).
2. On each slide you will find #1, #2, and #3 talking and
discussion points. Follow the numbers to work through
each slide in a logical progression of:
#1 Introducing the form of energy
#2 Giving an example of the form of energy
#3 Leading a student discussion about other examples
of that form of energy.
Mechanical Energy
3. Student Discussion: Why are these pictures
examples of Mechanical Energy? Can these
pictures be examples of any other forms of
energy?
1. Definition: Mechanical energy is the energy
that an object has because of it's motion or
position. Mechanical energy can be kinetic (in
motion) or potential (waiting energy).
2. Teacher Explanation: A roller coaster is an example of
Mechanical energy because a roller coaster only has energy
while it is in motion. Think about how EVERY roller coaster
starts. The top of a large ramp!
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Chemical Energy
3. Student Discussion: Why are these pictures
examples of Chemical Energy? Can these
pictures be examples of any other forms of
energy?
1. Definition: Chemical energy is energy that is
stored in chemical compounds (atoms and
molecules). The energy is released when there is
a chemical reaction.
2. Teacher Explanation: This girl is eating a peach. While
there is no reaction taking place instantly, her body with
eventually break down by a chemical reaction and use the
nutrients for energy.
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Electrical Energy
3. Student Discussion: Why are these pictures
examples of Electrical Energy? Can these
pictures be examples of any other forms of
energy?
1. Definition: Electrical energy is energy that is
available through a conductor.
2. Teacher Explanation: In this picture Electrical energy or
electricity is made available to homes and businesses by
being carried through the power lines. Power lines are an
example of a conductor.
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Sound Energy
3. Student Discussion: Why are these pictures
examples of Sound Energy? Can these
pictures be examples of any other forms of
energy?
1. Definition:Sound energy is the movement of
energy through waves.
2. Teacher Explanation: Dolphins communicate through sonar or
sound waves under water. Using the nasal sacks in their heads
they send out rapic clicks in front of them. The sound waves
moves through the water, bounces off the object they are
investigating, and is reflected back to the dolphin. When they
receive the information their auditory nerves create an acoustic
picture of the object (www.pbs.org)
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Heat Energy
3. Student Discussion: Why are these pictures
examples of Heat Energy? Can these pictures
be examples of any other forms of energy?
1. Definition: Heat energy is the energy that
comes from heat. Heat energy always flows from
the warmer object to the cooler object therefore
warming the cooler object.
2. Teacher Explanation: While a toaster uses electrical
energy to power it, the heat energy from the hot coils in the
toaster warm up the cold toast that you put in it and after a
short amount of time you have warm toast!
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Light Energy
3. Student Discussion: Why are these pictures
examples of Light Energy? Can these pictures
be examples of any other forms of energy?
1. Definition: Light energy is energy that comes
from light. Light energy is made up of tiny particles
that travel in waves, you cannot see the waves but
you can see the light. Light travels until it hits an
object and is either absorbed or reflected.
2. Teacher Explanation: The sun is a prime example of light
energy. It is a natural source of light and it's rays travel all
the way to the earth's surface. The suns light energy can
even be converted to electrical energy through solar power!
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