Potential and Kinetic Energy

Front

What is Kinetic Energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion. The faster an object moves, the more kinetic energy it has.

Front

What is Potential Energy?

Back

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

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 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 potential energy as 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.

Front

What is the relationship between mass and kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is directly proportional to mass. If the mass of an object increases, its kinetic energy increases if the speed remains constant.

Front

What is the relationship between speed and kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is proportional to the square of the speed. If the speed of an object doubles, its kinetic energy increases by a factor of four.

Front

What is an example of an object with potential energy?

Back

A rock held at the top of a hill has potential energy due to its height above the ground.

Front

What is an example of an object with kinetic energy?

Back

A moving car has kinetic energy because it is in motion.

Front

What is energy transfer?

Back

Energy transfer is the process of energy moving from one object or system to another, such as when a ball is thrown and its kinetic energy is transferred to the air.