Develop and Use Models to Show the Energy of a System
In this project, you will choose a system in which energy changes occur. Then you will develop and use two models, based on evidence, that illustrate the energy in that system. One of your models must be a potential-energy diagram. At least one of your models must show that a system's total energy is a combination of the energy associated with the motions of its particles and the energy associated with those particles' relative positions. Your models should also show any transformations of energy taking place in your system — for example, the transformation of potential energy to kinetic energy or of kinetic energy to thermal energy. In addition, your models should describe any flow of energy into or out of the system.
Background
Consider a puddle of water and melting ice on a table. These objects make up a system — a collection of objects that interact with one another. The energy in these objects is also part of the system. Everything outside the system is called its surroundings. In this case, the air around the table and the ground under it are considered parts of the surroundings.
Energy can be transferred between objects in a system. Forms of energy may include kinetic energy, potential energy, and thermal energy. In addition, some objects in a system may transform energy — for example, by transforming potential energy into kinetic energy or kinetic energy into thermal energy. If matter and energy cannot be transferred between the system and its surroundings, it is called an isolated system. If energy but not matter can enter and exit the system, it is a closed system. If matter and energy can both enter and exit the system, it is an open system.
Matter is made up of atoms and molecules. The energy associated with the motions and positions of these particles makes up the energies of material objects. The energy of the water molecules that make up the ice and liquid water and the energy of the molecules that make up the table can be used to describe the total energy of the system that includes the ice, the liquid water, and the table. Your models should show that your system's energy is a combination of the energy associated with the motions and the energy associated with the relative positions of these molecules. What types of models (for example, diagrams or computer simulations) would best illustrate this concept?
One model must be a potential-energy diagram. The example potential-energy diagram shown below represents a swinging pendulum. It shows where the pendulum's kinetic energy is at its highest and lowest points, and where its potential energy is at its highest and lowest points

You will need to work with your teacher to develop your models. The materials needed should be readily available to you. After your teacher approves the plans for your models, you will need to develop and use those models and then determine how well they describe the system. You should then make changes to the models so that they describe it more accurately.
Part I: Develop Your Models (20 points)
1. Research energy transfer in systems and energy transformations. Write a summary of these processes. Use the summary to develop a plan to create two models to illustrate the energy in a system. One model must be a potential-energy diagram. (12 points)​