14 Work and Energy
When wind moves a house, or even a leaf, it causes a change. In this
case, the change is in the position of the object. Recall that work is
done when a force moves an object through a distance. The ability to do
work or cause change is called
energy. So the wind has energy.
Work and Energy
When an object or living thing does work on another object, some of its energy is transferred to that object. You can think of work, then, as the transfer of energy. When energy is transferred, the object upon which the work is done gains energy. Energy is measured in joules—the same units as work.
Work and Energy
When an object or living thing does work on another object, some of its energy is transferred to that object. You can think of work, then, as the transfer of energy. When energy is transferred, the object upon which the work is done gains energy. Energy is measured in joules—the same units as work.
A machine is a device that allows you to do work in a way that is easier or more effective. You may think of machines as complex gadgets with motors, but a machine can be quite simple. For example, think about using a shovel. A shovel makes the work of moving soil easier, so a shovel is a machine.
