Changes of Energy

Energy Transfers Energy can be transferred from one object to another. It is a transfer if the same form of energy is in both objects. For example, heat energy is transferred from the element in the stove to the pot when you are cooking.

Energy Conversions A conversion is a change from one form of energy to another For example, when you turn the light on, the electricity makes the light glow. This is a conversion from electrical energy to light energy.

Conservation of Energy The Law of Conservation of energy states: You cannot create or destroy energy, it can only be changed from one form to another.

So all the energy that is in an object must end up somewhere! For example, the food you eat contains chemical potential energy. - Some of this energy is converted into kinetic energy, when you move. - Some is converted into sound energy, like a gurgling stomach. - Some is converted into the heat energy that keeps you warm. - Some energy is used in chemical reactions in your body. - Any energy that is left from this is stored in another chemical called fat.

“Energy Chains” We can summarise transformations and conversions using arrows. For example, if you are describing the energy changes involved in throwing a ball in the air, you might write: Chemical potential kineticgravitational potential kinetic