Potential vs. Kinetic Energy

Front

What is potential energy?

Back

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

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy of an object in motion. It depends on the mass of the object and the square of its speed.

Front

How does mass affect kinetic energy?

Back

The kinetic energy of an object increases with its mass. If the mass doubles, the kinetic energy also doubles, assuming speed remains constant.

Front

What happens to kinetic energy if speed is doubled?

Back

If the speed of an object is doubled, its kinetic energy quadruples.

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 relationship between kinetic energy and speed?

Back

The relationship is quadratic; as speed increases, kinetic energy increases exponentially.

Front

Can kinetic energy be converted to potential energy?

Back

Yes, kinetic energy can be converted to potential energy, such as when a roller coaster climbs a hill.

Front

Where is kinetic energy greatest on a roller coaster?

Back

Kinetic energy is greatest at the bottom of the highest hill on a roller coaster.

Front

What is the relationship between potential energy and height?

Back

Potential energy increases with height; the higher an object is, the more potential energy it has.

Front

What is the law of conservation of energy?

Back

The law of conservation of energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another.