Potential vs. Kinetic Energy Practice

Front

What is Potential Energy?

Back

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

Front

What is Kinetic Energy?

Back

Kinetic Energy is the energy of an object in motion. For example, a moving car or a running athlete has kinetic energy.

Front

When does an object have the most Potential Energy?

Back

An object has the most potential energy at its highest point, such as a diver at the edge of a cliff.

Front

When does an object have the most Kinetic Energy?

Back

An object has the most kinetic energy when it is moving at its fastest speed, such as a bobsled in a race.

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 happens to Kinetic Energy as an object rises?

Back

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

Front

Give an example of an object with Potential Energy.

Back

A basketball sitting on the rim of a hoop has potential energy before it falls.

Front

Give an example of an object with Kinetic Energy.

Back

A skydiver falling at terminal velocity has kinetic energy due to their speed.

Front

What is the relationship between Potential and Kinetic Energy?

Back

Potential and kinetic energy are two forms of mechanical energy. They can convert into each other; as potential energy decreases, kinetic energy increases, and vice versa.

Front

What is gravitational potential energy?

Back

Gravitational potential energy is the potential energy an object has due to its height above the ground, calculated as weight times height.