Basic Forms of Energy

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What is potential energy?

Back

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

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What is kinetic energy?

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Kinetic energy is the energy of motion. Any object that is moving has kinetic energy, such as a rolling ball or a running person.

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What type of energy is produced by vibrating objects?

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Sound energy is produced when an object vibrates.

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What is electrical energy?

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Electrical energy is the energy caused by the movement of electrons. It powers devices like flashlights and computers.

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What is light energy?

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Light energy is a form of energy that is visible to the human eye. It is produced by sources like the sun and light bulbs.

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What is thermal energy?

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Thermal energy, or heat energy, is the energy that comes from the temperature of matter. The hotter an object, the more thermal energy it has.

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What is an example of mechanical energy?

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Mechanical energy is the sum of potential and kinetic energy in an object. For example, a moving car has mechanical energy.

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What happens to potential energy when an object falls?

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When an object falls, its potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as it gains speed.

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What is the relationship between kinetic energy and speed?

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Kinetic energy increases with the square of the speed. This means if you double the speed, the kinetic energy increases by four times.

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What is an example of chemical energy?

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Chemical energy is stored in the bonds of chemical compounds. For example, food contains chemical energy that our bodies use for fuel.