Transformation of 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 roller coaster at the top of a hill has maximum potential energy.

Front

What happens to potential energy as an object falls?

Back

As an object falls, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases, demonstrating the conversion of energy from one form to another.

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 is kinetic energy calculated?

Back

Kinetic energy (KE) is calculated using the formula KE = 1/2 mv², where m is mass and v is velocity.

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.

Front

At which point on a roller coaster is potential energy greatest?

Back

Potential energy is greatest at the highest point of the roller coaster.

Front

At which point on a roller coaster is kinetic energy greatest?

Back

Kinetic energy is greatest at the lowest point of the roller coaster, where the speed is highest.

Front

What is an example of energy transformation?

Back

An example of energy transformation is a roller coaster converting potential energy at the top of a hill into kinetic energy as it descends.

Front

What is mechanical energy?

Back

Mechanical energy is the sum of potential energy and kinetic energy in an object.

Front

How does friction affect energy transformation?

Back

Friction converts some mechanical energy into thermal energy, causing energy loss in the system.