Potential and Kinetic Energy

Front

What is Potential Energy (PE)?

Back

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

Front

What is Kinetic Energy (KE)?

Back

Kinetic Energy is the energy of an object in motion. The faster an object moves, the more kinetic energy it has.

Front

At what position does a rock have the greatest kinetic energy?

Back

The rock has the greatest kinetic energy when it is at the lowest point of its fall, moving the fastest.

Front

What type of energy does a flashlight have when it is turned off?

Back

The flashlight has Potential Energy because it has a battery that can provide energy when turned on.

Front

Where is maximum potential energy on a roller coaster?

Back

Maximum potential energy is at the top of a big hill.

Front

If two vehicles are moving at the same speed, which has the greatest kinetic energy?

Back

The vehicle with the greater mass has the greatest kinetic energy.

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

Can an object have both potential and kinetic energy at the same time?

Back

Yes, an object can have both types of energy. For example, a swinging pendulum has maximum potential energy at the highest point and maximum kinetic energy at the lowest point.

Front

What is the formula for calculating Kinetic Energy?

Back

The formula for Kinetic Energy is KE = 1/2 mv², where m is mass and v is velocity.

Front

What is the formula for calculating Potential Energy?

Back

The formula for Potential Energy is PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is height.