Kinetic vs Potential Energy

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy an object has due to its motion. The faster an object moves, the more kinetic energy it has.

Front

What is potential energy?

Back

Potential energy is the stored energy in an object due to its position or state. It has the potential to be converted into kinetic energy.

Front

Give an example of kinetic energy.

Back

A flowing river is an example of kinetic energy because the water is in motion.

Front

Give an example of potential energy.

Back

A stretched rubber band is an example of potential energy because it is stored energy that can be released.

Front

What happens to potential energy when an object falls?

Back

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

Front

What type of energy does a roller coaster have at the top of a hill?

Back

At the top of a hill, a roller coaster has potential energy due to its height.

Front

What type of energy does a gymnast have while performing a backflip?

Back

While performing a backflip, a gymnast has kinetic energy because they are moving.

Front

How can you increase the potential energy of an object?

Back

You can increase the potential energy of an object by raising it to a higher position.

Front

What is the relationship between kinetic and potential energy?

Back

Kinetic and potential energy are forms of mechanical energy. They can convert into each other; for example, potential energy converts to kinetic energy when an object falls.

Front

What type of energy does a wind-up toy have before it is released?

Back

A wind-up toy has potential energy before it is released because it is wound up and has stored energy.