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 edge of a cliff has potential energy because of its height.

Front

What is Kinetic Energy?

Back

Kinetic Energy is the energy of an object in motion. For example, a moving car or a swinging girl has kinetic energy.

Front

When is energy considered Potential?

Back

Energy is considered potential when it is stored and has the potential to do work, such as a stretched rubber band or water behind a dam.

Front

When is energy considered Kinetic?

Back

Energy is considered kinetic when an object is in motion, such as a ball rolling down a hill or a person running.

Front

What happens to Potential Energy as an object falls?

Back

As an object falls, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases, as it converts potential energy into kinetic energy.

Front

Can an object have both Potential and Kinetic Energy?

Back

Yes, an object can have both types of energy at the same time. For example, a roller coaster at the top of a hill has potential energy, and as it descends, it gains kinetic energy.

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What is an example of Kinetic Energy in everyday life?

Back

An example of kinetic energy in everyday life is a bicycle moving down the street.

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What is an example of Potential Energy in everyday life?

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An example of potential energy in everyday life is a book on a shelf, which has potential energy due to its height.

Front

How does height affect Potential Energy?

Back

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

Front

How does speed affect Kinetic Energy?

Back

The faster an object moves, the more kinetic energy it has, as kinetic energy increases with the square of the speed.