LS2.B: Cycle of Matter and Energy Transfer in Ecosystems

In this video Paul Andersen explains how matter moves from the environment into living organisms and back into the environment.  Food webs are used to show how matter and energy move through organisms.  Ecological pyramids show that matter and energy are lost as they move from producers to consumers.

CCC5: Matter and Energy

In this video Paul Andersen explains how matter and energy flow and cycle through systems.  He starts by explaining how energy and matter input and output will always be conserved.  He addresses the many misconceptions surround energy and matter including the belief that food contains energy.  He explains how nuclear reactions conserve both batter and energy.  The video ends with a teaching progression for grades K-12.

SEP2: Developing and Using Models

Paul Andersen explains the importance of modeling in science and engineering.  Models are used by scientists to explain phenomenon.  Unlike mental models, conceptual models can be shared by all scientists to improve our understanding of the Universe.  Engineers use models study systems and test designs.