8th Grade Potential and Kinetic Energy

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion. It increases with the speed of the object.

Front

What is potential energy?

Back

Potential energy is the stored energy in an object due to its position or state. It is often associated with height and mass.

Front

How does speed affect kinetic energy?

Back

The faster an object moves, the greater its kinetic energy.

Front

What factors affect potential energy?

Back

Potential energy increases with height and mass of the object.

Front

What is the formula for kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy (KE) = 1/2 mv², where m is mass and v is velocity.

Front

What is the formula for potential energy?

Back

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

Front

Give an example of kinetic energy.

Back

A moving car, a thrown ball, or a running person all have kinetic energy.

Front

Give an example of potential energy.

Back

A book on a shelf, water behind a dam, or a drawn bow all have potential energy.

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 is the relationship between kinetic and potential energy?

Back

Kinetic and potential energy are forms of mechanical energy; they can convert into each other, such as in a swinging pendulum.