7th Grade Science

Studying life science, physical science, and Earth science integration.

Cells and Living SystemsMatter and Its PropertiesEarth’s Structure and Systems
Genetics and HeredityForces, Motion, and EnergyCycles in Nature
Scientific InvestigationsEnvironmental StewardshipConnecting Science to Everyday Life
Active Note-TakingPractice with Real-World Problems
Cells and Living Sys...Matter and Its Prope...Earth’s Structure an...Genetics and Heredit...Forces, Motion, and ...Cycles in NatureScientific Investiga...Environmental Stewar...Connecting Science t...Active Note-TakingPractice with Real-W...
Advanced Topics

Forces, Motion, and Energy

What Makes Things Move

Forces are pushes or pulls that can make objects move, stop, or change direction. Motion is how objects change position over time. Energy is needed to make things happen, like moving a bike or powering a computer.

Types of Forces

  • Gravity: Pulls objects toward each other (like us to the Earth).
  • Friction: Slows things down when two surfaces rub.
  • Magnetism: Attracts or repels certain metals.

Energy in Action

Energy comes in many forms: kinetic (movement), potential (stored), thermal (heat), and more. The Law of Conservation of Energy states that energy can't be created or destroyed, only changed from one form to another.

Applications

Engineers use these principles to build safe cars, roller coasters, and even rockets.

Key Formula

\[F = ma\]

Examples

  • A soccer ball moves when you kick it (force in action).

  • Roller coasters convert potential energy to kinetic energy as they speed down a hill.

In a Nutshell

Forces and energy explain how and why things move in our world.

Key Terms

Force
A push or pull on an object.
Energy
The ability to do work or cause change.
Gravity
The force that pulls objects toward each other.
Next
Cycles in Nature