Makayla and Aaron are watching a basketball game after school. As they observe different basketballs in the gym, they think about what they learned in class earlier that day. Help them complete these sentences to explain what they learned.
Some objects have energy due to their positions above the ground. This is called:
A.potential energy
B.kinetic energy
A. potential energy
When an object gets higher above the ground, this kind of energy:
A.increases
B.decreases
C.stays the same
A. increases
Some objects have energy due to their motion. This is called:
A.potential energy
B.kinetic energy
B. kinetic energy
When an object's speed gets faster, this kind of energy:
A.increases
B.decreases
C.stays the same
A. increases
Aaron and Makayla want to determine what type of energy each basketball has.
Identify the type or types of energy described in each situation listed below.
You might click only one answer in each row, or you might click both answers in a row.
kinetic
potential energy
energy
One basketball is stored on a shelf about 4 feet high.
One basketball is rolling on the floor
One basketball is falling through the hoop near the top of the basketball goal.
One basketball is stored on a shelf about 4 feet high:
- Potential energy
One basketball is rolling on the floor:
- Kinetic energy
One basketball is falling through the hoop near the top of the basketball goal:
- Both potential energy (due to its position above the ground) and kinetic energy (due to its motion)
1. Makayla: "I learned that there are different sizes of basketballs, depending on the age group playing the game."
2. Aaron: "Yeah, and I also learned that the standard size for a basketball in a professional game is 29.5 inches in circumference."
3. Makayla: "In addition to size, basketballs can have different textures too. We saw some with leather covers and others with synthetic materials."
4. Aaron: "Right, and the type of material used can affect the grip and the bounce of the ball."
5. Makayla: "We also discussed the importance of inflating the basketball properly. Too much or too little air can affect its performance."
6. Aaron: "Yes, we learned that the recommended air pressure for a basketball is usually around 7.5 to 8.5 pounds per square inch (psi)."
7. Makayla: "Lastly, we talked about the different colors and patterns on basketballs, which can make it easier for players to track the ball during a game."
8. Aaron: "That's true. They often use contrasting colors or bold designs to enhance visibility on the court."