Potential and Kinetic Energy Review

Potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or state.

Kinetic energy is the energy of an object in motion, dependent on its mass and velocity.

Gravitational potential energy is calculated using the formula: PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is height.

As an object is lifted higher, its gravitational potential energy increases.

As an object's speed increases, its kinetic energy increases, specifically following the formula: KE = 1/2 mv².

In a closed system, the total mechanical energy (potential + kinetic) remains constant, demonstrating the principle of conservation of energy.

An example of potential energy is a book on a shelf, which has energy due to its height above the ground.

An example of kinetic energy is a moving car, which has energy due to its motion.

The unit of measurement for energy is the Joule (J).

Gravitational potential energy increases as height increases, since it is directly proportional to height.