They help scientists see, measure, and do things that they could not otherwise see, measure and do. Trying to determine the effects of solution helps people avoid some new problems. NSES Content Topic Science and technology in local challenges People continue inventing new ways of doing things, solving problems, and getting work done. These new ideas and inventions often affect other people, sometimes the effects are good and sometimes they are bad. It is helpful to try and figure out ahead of time how ideas and inventions will affect other people.
Machines use energy to make work easier.
NSES Content Topic Properties of objects and materials Objects have many observable properties, including size, weight, shape, color, temperature, and the ability to react with other substances. These properties can be measured using tools such as rulers, balances, and thermometers. Objects are made of one or more materials, such as paper, wood, and metal. Materials have different states - solid, liquid, and gas. Some common materials such as water can be changed from one state to another by heating or cooling.