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Unit 2: Energy, Work & Machines

How this unit works: Each lesson below contains two distinct resources.
  • Model Page: The core lesson content. Start here to learn the concept.
  • Guided Reasoning: A critical thinking companion. Use this to think through the physics with guided questions.
Lesson 01

Why Does Doing Work Take Effort?

Work isn’t just a job—it’s physics! Learn the scientific definition of Work (Force × Distance) and why moving objects requires specific amounts of effort.

Lesson 02

Where Does The Energy Go?

Energy is the ability to do work. Explore the two main forms—Kinetic (moving) and Potential (stored)—and how systems transform between them.

Lesson 03

Why Don’t Machines Remove Effort?

Simple machines (like levers and ramps) make tasks feel easier, but they don’t erase the work. Discover the trade-off between Force and Distance.

Lesson 04

Why Is Work Conserved?

In a perfect world, the work you put in equals the work you get out. Analyze how ideal machines transfer energy without losing a drop.

Lesson 05

Why Does Energy Feel Lost?

Why do machines heat up? In the real world, friction steals some energy as heat. Learn about efficiency and where that “lost” energy really goes.

Lesson 06

What Does It Really Mean To Say Energy Is Conserved?

Energy can never be created or destroyed. Wrap up the unit by looking at the Law of Conservation of Energy across entire systems.