Mechanical Energy

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What is mechanical energy?

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Mechanical energy is the sum of potential energy and kinetic energy in an object. It is the energy associated with the motion and position of an object.

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What are the two main types of mechanical energy?

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The two main types of mechanical energy are potential energy (stored energy) and kinetic energy (energy of motion).

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Can you give an example of potential energy?

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An example of potential energy is a rock sitting at the top of a hill. It has the potential to fall down.

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Can you give an example of kinetic energy?

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An example of kinetic energy is a ball rolling down a hill. It is in motion.

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Is a stretched rubber band an example of mechanical energy?

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Yes, a stretched rubber band has potential energy because it can snap back to its original shape.

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Is a moving car an example of mechanical energy?

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Yes, a moving car has kinetic energy because it is in motion.

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What happens to mechanical energy when an object falls?

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As an object falls, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases, keeping the total mechanical energy constant (ignoring air resistance).

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Is a book on a shelf an example of mechanical energy?

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Yes, the book has potential energy because of its position above the ground.

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What is the relationship between potential energy and height?

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Potential energy increases with height. The higher an object is, the more potential energy it has.

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What is the relationship between kinetic energy and speed?

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

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