Kinetic and Potential Energy

Front

What is Kinetic Energy?

Back

Kinetic Energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion. It is calculated using the formula KE = ½(mass) x (velocity)².

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What is Potential Energy?

Back

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

Front

What is the formula for Potential Energy?

Back

The formula for Potential Energy is PE = (mass) x (acceleration of gravity) x (height).

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How does height affect Potential Energy?

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The higher an object is, the more potential energy it has, because potential energy is directly proportional to height.

Front

What happens to Potential Energy as an object falls?

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As an object falls, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases.

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What is the relationship between Kinetic Energy and speed?

Back

Kinetic Energy increases with the square of the speed. If speed doubles, the kinetic energy increases by four times.

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How do mass and speed affect Kinetic Energy?

Back

Kinetic Energy is directly proportional to mass and the square of speed. More mass or higher speed results in greater kinetic energy.

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What is the total mechanical energy of an object?

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Total mechanical energy is the sum of an object's kinetic energy and potential energy.

Front

What happens to the total mechanical energy in a closed system?

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In a closed system, the total mechanical energy remains constant, as energy is conserved.

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How does a roller coaster demonstrate energy transformation?

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A roller coaster converts potential energy at the top of a hill into kinetic energy as it descends.