Potential vs. Kinetic Energy

Front

What is potential energy?

Back

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

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy of an object in motion. It depends on the mass of the object and the square of its velocity.

Front

How does mass affect potential energy?

Back

The amount of material (mass) affects the potential energy; more mass means more potential energy when at the same height.

Front

Where does a roller coaster cart have the greatest kinetic energy?

Back

At the bottom of the highest hill.

Front

Which ball has the most potential energy?

Back

A ball held at 3 meters has the most potential energy compared to balls held at lower heights.

Front

What happens to kinetic energy if the speed of an object doubles?

Back

If the speed of an object doubles, its kinetic energy quadruples.

Front

Can kinetic energy be converted to potential energy?

Back

Yes, kinetic energy can be converted to potential energy, for example, when an object is lifted against gravity.

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.

Front

What is the formula for potential energy?

Back

The formula for potential energy (PE) is PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is height.

Front

What is gravitational potential energy?

Back

Gravitational potential energy is the potential energy an object has due to its height above the ground.