4^th Grade Scientists Explore

Kinetic & Potential Energy

Potential energy is energy because of position. The object has not moved yet, but has the potential to because of its location. The boy at the top of the slide has potential energy. He isn’t moving, but he has great potential for using energy!

Kinetic energy is energy of motion. An object has kinetic energy if it is moving. Once the boy starts sliding down the slide, his energy changes from potential to kinetic.

Our class went out on the school playground to find some examples of potential and kinetic energy. Not only did we find some great examples, we had fun finding them!

Potential Energy Kinetic Energy

Potential Energy Potential Energy Kinetic Energy

Check these websites out!

Super Scientists – Energy Pioneers

Kids Korner – “Types of Energy”

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