Conservation of Energy

Introduction

Energy is all around us—it powers our homes, fuels our cars, and even keeps our bodies functioning. But where does energy go when it seems to disappear? In this WebQuest, you will explore the law of conservation of energy, which states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another. By the end of this WebQuest, you will understand how energy conservation works in real-life systems such as roller coasters, engines, and ecosystems.

Task

You and your team will explore the principle of energy conservation by completing the following tasks:

  1. Research different forms of energy and how energy transforms in various systems.
  2. Investigate real-world examples where the law of conservation of energy is applied, such as roller coasters, pendulums, or power plants.
  3. Create a visual or presentation that demonstrates how energy is conserved in one of the systems you researched.
  4. Reflect on the importance of energy conservation and how it applies to environmental sustainability.
Process

Step 1: Investigate Forms of Energy Begin by researching the different types of energy: kinetic, potential, thermal, chemical, and electrical. Use the following websites as resources:

Take notes on how energy can transform from one form to another, and keep examples in mind as you continue your research.

Step 2: Explore Real-World Applications Choose one real-world example where energy conservation is crucial. For instance, how does a roller coaster use gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy to keep the ride moving? Or, how does an engine convert chemical energy from fuel into mechanical energy to power a car?

Use the following resources to guide your investigation:

Collect images, diagrams, and data that explain energy transformation in your chosen system.

Step 3: Create a Model or Presentation Work with your team to create a model, poster, or slides presentation that shows how energy is conserved in your chosen system. Be sure to:

You can use tools like Google Slides, Canva, or even video editing software if you'd like to make a video.

  • Label the types of energy involved.
  • Show how energy is transformed throughout the system.
  • Explain why energy conservation is important in this context.

Step 4: Reflection Individually, write a one-page reflection on the importance of the law of conservation of energy. How does it affect technology, natural systems, and environmental sustainability? Consider the broader implications of energy conservation, especially in terms of renewable energy and reducing waste.

Evaluation

Criteria

Excellent (4)

Proficient (3)

Basic (2)

Needs Improvement (1)

Research Quality

Thorough research; clear and accurate explanations of energy forms and transformations; uses multiple, credible sources.

Good research with mostly accurate explanations of energy transformations; uses some credible sources.

Basic research; some inaccuracies in explaining energy transformations; limited sources used.

Incomplete or inaccurate research; few or no sources cited.

Application to Real-World System

Chosen system is thoroughly explained with accurate depiction of energy transformations; clear connection to the law of conservation of energy.

System is explained well, but some minor details or transformations are unclear; mostly accurate connection to the law of conservation of energy.

System is explained, but energy transformations are unclear or partially incorrect; connection to the law of conservation is weak.

Poor explanation of system; energy transformations are missing or incorrect; no connection to the law of conservation of energy.

Model/Presentation

Clear, creative, and visually appealing; thoroughly demonstrates energy conservation with appropriate labeling and explanations.

Presentation is clear and informative but lacks creativity or full clarity in labeling; mostly demonstrates energy conservation.

Presentation is basic; lacks clear labeling or detailed explanations; partially demonstrates energy conservation.

Presentation is incomplete or unclear; little or no demonstration of energy conservation.

Collaboration

Teamwork was highly effective; work was equally distributed and group functioned cohesively.

Team worked together well; minor issues in workload distribution, but overall effective.

Some teamwork issues; uneven workload distribution or lack of cohesion in the group.

Poor teamwork; group did not collaborate well, and work was unevenly distributed.
Conclusion

Through this WebQuest, you have gained a deeper understanding of the law of conservation of energy. You’ve learned that energy is never lost but always changing forms in both natural and human-made systems. This principle not only helps explain everyday phenomena but also highlights the importance of sustainability and how we manage energy in our world. As we move toward a future with renewable energy sources, understanding and applying this fundamental law is key to solving global energy challenges.

Remember: energy never disappears—it just transforms!