Where Does a Ball’s Energy Go When It Stops Rolling?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Where does a ball’s energy go when it stops rolling?

The Big Idea

A rolling ball slowly slows down and stops. But the ball's energy does not simply disappear. So where does it go?

Friction Rubs

Step one: friction rubs. As the ball rolls, friction between the ball and the floor slows it down. That rubbing turns some of its moving energy into a tiny bit of heat.

Air and Sound

Step two: air and sound. The ball also pushes air aside as it rolls, and it makes a little sound. Those take away some of its energy too.

Spread Out

Step three: it spreads out. The energy is not lost. It has spread into a slightly warmer floor and slightly warmer air. The warming is far too small to feel.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! The ball starts with motion energy. Friction slows it a little at a time. The air moves out of the way. Tiny heat spreads into the floor.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Friction always turns some motion energy into heat. The ball also pushes air aside and makes a little sound. The energy is not lost, it has just spread out. The warmer floor and air are too small to feel.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Roll a ball across a carpet. Then roll it across a smooth floor. Which one stops sooner? Where did the ball's energy go? Tell a grown-up what you discover!

Outro

When a ball stops rolling, its energy spreads out as tiny heat and sound. Science is amazing! What will you discover next? The more you look around, the more wonders you will find, so keep your eyes open! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!