Physical Science Flashcards

Which form of energy is stored in a stretched rubber band?

Answer: Elastic potential energy

A stretched rubber band stores elastic potential energy due to its deformed shape; this energy is released when the band returns to its original form.

A wave with a higher frequency will have:

Answer: A shorter wavelength

In a wave traveling at a constant speed, frequency and wavelength are inversely related — higher frequency means shorter wavelength.

When you mix baking soda and vinegar together, bubbles form and the temperature drops. This is most likely a:

Answer: Chemical change

The formation of bubbles (a new gas) and a temperature change are signs that new substances have been produced, indicating a chemical change.

Which simple machine is a wheel with a rope wrapped around it used to lift heavy objects?

Answer: Pulley

A pulley consists of a wheel and rope (or chain) that redirects or multiplies a force, making it easier to lift heavy loads.

Which of the following correctly describes the Law of Conservation of Energy?

Answer: Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed

The Law of Conservation of Energy states that the total energy in a closed system remains constant — it can change forms but cannot be created or destroyed.

Light travels from air into water and bends. This bending of light is called:

Answer: Refraction

Refraction is the bending of light (or any wave) when it passes from one medium to another with a different density, changing its speed and direction.

Which of the following objects has the greatest gravitational potential energy?

Answer: A book on a shelf 2 meters high

Gravitational potential energy increases with height; the book on the 2-meter shelf has the greatest height and therefore the most gravitational potential energy.