Potential & Kinetic Energy Flashcards I

Front

What is Kinetic Energy?

Back

Kinetic Energy is the energy that an object possesses due to its motion. It is calculated using the formula KE = 1/2 mv², where m is mass and v is velocity.

Front

What is Potential Energy?

Back

Potential Energy is the stored energy in an object due to its position or state. It is often associated with gravitational potential energy, which can be calculated using the formula PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is height.

Front

How does height affect Potential Energy?

Back

The higher an object is positioned, the greater its potential energy. This is because potential energy is directly proportional to height.

Front

What is the relationship between Kinetic and Potential Energy in a closed system?

Back

In a closed system, the total mechanical energy (the sum of kinetic and potential energy) remains constant, as energy can be transformed from one form to another but cannot be created or destroyed.

Front

Give an example of Kinetic Energy in sports.

Back

An example of Kinetic Energy in sports is a soccer player running to kick a ball. The player and the ball both have kinetic energy due to their motion.

Front

What happens to Potential Energy when an object falls?

Back

As an object falls, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases, assuming no energy is lost to air resistance or other forces.

Front

What is the formula for calculating Kinetic Energy?

Back

The formula for calculating Kinetic Energy is KE = 1/2 mv², where m is the mass of the object and v is its velocity.

Front

What is an example of Potential Energy in everyday life?

Back

An example of Potential Energy in everyday life is a book placed on a shelf. The book has potential energy due to its height above the ground.

Front

How can Potential Energy be converted to Kinetic Energy?

Back

Potential Energy can be converted to Kinetic Energy when an object is allowed to move from a higher position to a lower position, such as a roller coaster descending from a peak.

Front

What is the significance of the highest point in a roller coaster in terms of energy?

Back

At the highest point of a roller coaster, the potential energy is at its maximum, while the kinetic energy is at its minimum. As the coaster descends, potential energy converts to kinetic energy.