6. Complete the rest of the planning section of the Investigation planner by filling in the spaces provided.

Some possible investigation approaches are suggested below.

If you are doing the first investigation, you could construct a sloping ramp. By rolling a ball or trolley down the ramp from different heights (different amounts of stored energy), you can measure how far it will travel when it reaches the bottom (amount of motion energy). A graph can be used to compare the data.

If you are doing the second investigation, you could devise a small vehicle powered by a rubber band. By changing the size of the rubber band you can measure the distance it travels each time. You will have to decide how to record the size of the rubber band, its mass, its diameter, or the thickness of the band.

You should only change one of these variables. Keep the others controlled.

7. Show your plan to your teacher before you get the equipment needed to complete the investigation.
8. Carry out your experiment.

9. Make sure that you describe your observations and record all your results in the Results section of your Investigation planner.
10. At the end of this investigation you should be able to answer your Research question. To get to this point you will need to complete the Conclusion and Reflection sections of the Investigation planner.

1. Hydroelectricity is electrical energy produced using energy from water stored in high dams. Why is the production of hydroelectricity better for the environment than producing electricity in some other types of generating plants?
2. Could use of energy stored in springs help developing countries? What advantages would it have?
3. How could the use of mechanical energy stored in springs be used to help reduce pollution?
4. Suggest any other research about the mechanical energy that you think should be carried out.

You may have to refer to library books or the Internet for information.