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 book on a shelf has potential energy because of its height.

Front

What is Kinetic Energy (KE)?

Back

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

Front

How does height affect Potential Energy?

Back

The higher an object is, the more potential energy it has. For example, a diving board that is higher off the ground has more potential energy than a lower one.

Front

What happens to Kinetic Energy when an object's speed increases?

Back

As an object's speed increases, its kinetic energy also 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 roller coaster at the top of a hill has potential energy, and as it descends, it converts that energy into kinetic energy.

Front

What is an example of Potential Energy?

Back

A stretched rubber band has potential energy because it is stored energy that can be released.

Front

What is an example of Kinetic Energy?

Back

A ball rolling down a hill is an example of kinetic energy because it is in motion.

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 relationship between mass and Kinetic Energy?

Back

The greater the mass of an object, the more kinetic energy it has when moving at the same speed.

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 PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is acceleration due to gravity, and h is height.