The Basics of Energy and Motion

Energy is the ability to do work or cause change. Forces are pushes or pulls that can move objects or change their shape.

Types of Energy

• Kinetic Energy: Energy of motion (like a rolling ball).
• Potential Energy: Stored energy (like a stretched rubber band).
• Thermal, Chemical, and Electrical Energy: Other ways energy appears in nature.

Forces in Action

• Gravity: Pulls objects toward each other (keeps us on the ground).
• Friction: Slows things down when surfaces rub together.
• Magnetism: Attracts or repels certain metals.

Laws of Motion

• Newton’s First Law: Objects stay at rest or in motion unless acted on by a force.
• Newton’s Second Law: The acceleration of an object depends on its mass and the force applied (\( F = ma \)).
• Newton’s Third Law: Every action has an equal and opposite reaction.

Real-World Connections

Understanding energy and forces helps you ride a bike, drive a car, or even play sports safely!