Content Standard: Students in Wisconsin will demonstrate an understanding of the physical and chemical properties of matter, the forms and properties of energy, and the ways in which matter and energy interact.
Note: For more details of the content of physical sciences, see National Science Education Standards* (1996, p. 115 - 201).
Rationale
Knowledge of the physical and chemical properties of matter and
energy is basic to an understanding of the earth and space, life
and environmental, and physical sciences. The properties of matter
can be explained in terms of the atomic structure of matter. Chemical
reactions can be explained and predicted in terms of the atomic
structure of matter. Natural events are the result of interactions
of matter and energy. When students understand how matter and
energy interact, they can explain and predict chemical and physical
changes that occur around them.