Mechanical Energy Review

Front

What is Mechanical Energy?

Back

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.

Front

What is Potential Energy (PE)?

Back

Potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or configuration. It is often associated with the height of an object above the ground.

Front

What is Kinetic Energy (KE)?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy of an object in motion. It depends on the mass of the object and the square of its velocity.

Front

How does height affect Potential Energy?

Back

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

Front

How does mass affect Potential Energy?

Back

Potential energy increases with the mass of the object. More mass means more stored energy at a given height.

Front

What happens to Potential Energy as an object falls?

Back

As an object falls, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases, conserving mechanical energy.

Front

What is the relationship between KE and PE in a closed system?

Back

In a closed system, the total mechanical energy (KE + PE) remains constant, meaning energy can transform from one form to another but is not lost.

Front

What type of energy does a ball have at the highest point of its trajectory?

Back

At the highest point, a ball has maximum potential energy and minimum kinetic energy.

Front

What type of energy does a ball have just before it hits the ground?

Back

Just before hitting the ground, a ball has maximum kinetic energy and minimum potential energy.

Front

What is the energy transformation when a roller coaster goes up a hill?

Back

As a roller coaster goes up a hill, kinetic energy is transformed into potential energy.