Potential and Kinetic Energy

Front

What is potential energy?

Back

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

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy of motion. An object that is moving, like a car driving down the road, has kinetic energy.

Front

Give an example of potential energy.

Back

A pile of coal that will be used for fuel is an example of potential energy because it has the potential to release energy when burned.

Front

Give an example of kinetic energy.

Back

A marble rolling down the aisle of a classroom is an example of kinetic energy because it is in motion.

Front

What happens to potential energy when an object falls?

Back

As an object falls, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases, as it converts potential energy into kinetic energy.

Front

What is the relationship between potential and kinetic energy?

Back

Potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy and vice versa. For example, when a roller coaster goes down a hill, potential energy is converted into kinetic energy.

Front

What is an example of an object with kinetic energy?

Back

A flag blowing in the wind is an example of an object with kinetic energy because it is moving.

Front

What is an example of an object with potential energy?

Back

A stretched rubber band has potential energy because it is in a position that can cause it to move when released.

Front

How can we increase the potential energy of an object?

Back

We can increase the potential energy of an object by raising it to a higher position, such as lifting a book off the ground.

Front

How can we increase the kinetic energy of an object?

Back

We can increase the kinetic energy of an object by applying a force to it, such as pushing a skateboard to make it go faster.