Energy Review 1

Front

What is gravitational energy (GE)?

Back

Gravitational energy (GE) is the potential energy held by an object because of its height above the ground. The higher the object, the more gravitational energy it has.

Front

What is kinetic energy (KE)?

Back

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

Front

At which position does a falling object have the most gravitational energy?

Back

A falling object has the most gravitational energy at the highest position, which is Position A.

Front

At which position does a falling object have the most kinetic energy?

Back

A falling object has the most kinetic energy at the lowest position, which is Position B.

Front

What happens to gravitational energy as an object falls?

Back

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

Front

What is the relationship between gravitational energy and kinetic energy in a pendulum?

Back

In a pendulum, gravitational energy is converted to kinetic energy as it swings down, and kinetic energy is converted back to gravitational energy as it swings up.

Front

Why does a pendulum have zero kinetic energy at the highest points?

Back

A pendulum has zero kinetic energy at the highest points because it momentarily stops before changing direction.

Front

What is the total mechanical energy of a system?

Back

The total mechanical energy of a system is the sum of its kinetic energy and gravitational energy.

Front

How does the speed of a pendulum change as it swings?

Back

The speed of a pendulum increases as it swings down (losing GE and gaining KE) and decreases as it swings up (gaining GE and losing KE).

Front

What is the significance of position 3 in a pendulum's swing?

Back

Position 3 is significant because it is where the pendulum has 100% kinetic energy and the greatest speed.