Energy Transformations

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion. It depends on the mass of the object and its velocity.

Front

What is potential energy?

Back

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

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

What happens to potential energy as an object falls?

Back

As an object falls, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases, assuming no energy is lost to friction.

Front

What is gravitational potential energy?

Back

Gravitational potential energy is the potential energy held by an object because of its height above the ground. It is calculated as weight times height.

Front

How does energy transform when a roller coaster goes down a hill?

Back

As the roller coaster descends, gravitational potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, causing it to speed up.

Front

What is mechanical energy?

Back

Mechanical energy is the sum of kinetic and potential energy in an object that is used to do work.

Front

What is an example of energy transformation in a light bulb?

Back

In a light bulb, electrical energy is transformed into light energy and thermal energy.

Front

What is the difference between kinetic and potential energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is energy of motion, while potential energy is stored energy based on position.

Front

What is an example of kinetic energy in everyday life?

Back

A moving car, a running dog, or a flowing river are all examples of kinetic energy.