Potential and 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. The faster an object moves, the more kinetic energy it has.

Front

How are potential and kinetic energy related?

Back

As potential energy increases, kinetic energy decreases, and vice versa, in a closed system.

Front

At what point is kinetic energy greatest in a falling object?

Back

Kinetic energy is greatest just before the object hits the ground.

Front

What happens to potential energy as an object falls?

Back

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

Front

What is an example of potential energy?

Back

A stretched rubber band has potential energy because it can do work when released.

Front

What is an example of kinetic energy?

Back

A moving car has kinetic energy because it is in motion.

Front

What type of energy does a diver have at the highest point of a dive?

Back

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

Front

What type of energy does a diver have just before entering the water?

Back

Just before entering the water, a diver has maximum kinetic energy and minimum potential energy.

Front

What is the formula for kinetic energy?

Back

The formula for kinetic energy (KE) is KE = 1/2 mv², where m is mass and v is velocity.