8th Grade Science

Comprehensive study of physical, life, and Earth sciences with scientific inquiry.

Scientific Inquiry & The Scientific MethodMatter and Its PropertiesCells and Living SystemsEarth’s Structure and Resources
Forces, Motion, and EnergyGenetics and HeredityWeather, Climate, and Human Impact
Scientific Problem Solving in Daily LifeConserving Resources and RecyclingMaking and Interpreting Scientific Models
Analyzing Data and GraphsAnswering Open-Ended Science QuestionsUsing Process of Elimination
Scientific Inquiry &...Matter and Its Prope...Cells and Living Sys...Earth’s Structure an...Forces, Motion, and ...Genetics and Heredit...Weather, Climate, an...Scientific Problem S...Conserving Resources...Making and Interpret...Analyzing Data and G...Answering Open-Ended...Using Process of Eli...
Advanced Topics

Forces, Motion, and Energy

How Things Move

Forces are pushes or pulls that can change an object's motion. Motion describes how objects move, and energy is what makes things happen.

Newton’s Laws of Motion

  • First Law: Objects stay at rest or keep moving unless a force acts on them.
  • Second Law: The bigger the force, the more an object accelerates (\( F = ma \)).
  • Third Law: Every action has an equal and opposite reaction.

Types of Energy

  • Kinetic Energy: Energy of moving objects.
  • Potential Energy: Stored energy due to position.

Real-World Applications

  • Engineers design roller coasters using the laws of motion.
  • Athletes use energy and motion to jump higher or run faster.

Key Formula

\[F = ma\]

Examples

  • A soccer ball accelerating when kicked.

  • A stretched rubber band storing potential energy.

In a Nutshell

Forces cause motion, and energy is needed for things to move or change.

Key Terms

Force
A push or pull on an object.
Kinetic Energy
The energy of moving things.
Potential Energy
Energy stored in an object because of its position.
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Genetics and Heredity