Potential and Kinetic Energy

Front

What is potential energy?

Back

Potential energy is the stored energy in an object due to its position or state. For example, a ball held at a height has potential energy because of its position.

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy of an object in motion. The faster an object moves, the more kinetic energy it has.

Front

How are potential and kinetic energy related?

Back

Both potential and kinetic energy are forms of mechanical energy and are related to the motion of objects. Potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy when an object moves.

Front

What happens to potential energy when an object falls?

Back

As an object falls, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases, as it is converted into motion.

Front

What is an example of potential energy?

Back

A book on a shelf has potential energy because it can fall due to gravity.

Front

What is an example of kinetic energy?

Back

A bicycle moving down a hill has kinetic energy because it is in motion.

Front

What is gravitational potential energy?

Back

Gravitational potential energy is the potential energy an object has due to its height above the ground. The higher the object, the more gravitational potential energy it has.

Front

What is the formula for kinetic energy?

Back

The formula for kinetic energy (KE) is KE = 1/2 mv², where m is mass and v is velocity.

Front

What is the formula for potential energy?

Back

The formula for gravitational potential energy (PE) is PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is height.

Front

What happens to energy in a closed system?

Back

In a closed system, energy is conserved; it can change forms (like from potential to kinetic) but cannot be created or destroyed.