Potential and Kinetic Energy

Front

What is the definition of potential energy?

Back

Potential energy is the stored energy in an object due to its position or state, such as an object at height or a compressed spring.

Front

What is the definition of kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy of an object in motion, which depends on its mass and speed.

Front

At which point is kinetic energy greatest in a roller coaster ride?

Back

Kinetic energy is greatest at the lowest point of the ride.

Front

What factors affect kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy depends on both mass and speed.

Front

What is the formula for calculating potential energy?

Back

Potential energy (PE) = mass (m) × gravity (g) × height (h).

Front

Calculate the potential energy of a 2,500 kg car on a hill 100 meters high.

Back

Potential energy = 2,500 kg × 9.8 m/s² × 100 m = 2,450,000 J.

Front

What is the relationship between potential energy and height?

Back

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

Front

What is the relationship between kinetic energy and speed?

Back

Kinetic energy increases with the square of the speed; if speed doubles, kinetic energy increases by four times.

Front

What type of energy does a basketball have when held in a player's hands?

Back

The basketball has potential energy when held.

Front

What happens to potential energy as an object falls?

Back

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