Mechanical Energy

Front

What is mechanical energy?

Back

Mechanical energy is the sum of potential energy and kinetic energy in an object. It is the energy associated with the motion and position of an object.

Front

What are the two main types of mechanical energy?

Back

The two main types of mechanical energy are potential energy (stored energy) and kinetic energy (energy of motion).

Front

Can you give an example of potential energy?

Back

An example of potential energy is a rock sitting at the top of a hill. It has the potential to fall down.

Front

Can you give an example of kinetic energy?

Back

An example of kinetic energy is a ball rolling down a hill. It is in motion.

Front

Is a stretched rubber band an example of mechanical energy?

Back

Yes, a stretched rubber band has potential energy because it can snap back to its original shape.

Front

Is a moving car an example of mechanical energy?

Back

Yes, a moving car has kinetic energy because it is in motion.

Front

What happens to mechanical energy when an object falls?

Back

As an object falls, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases, keeping the total mechanical energy constant (ignoring air resistance).

Front

Is a book on a shelf an example of mechanical energy?

Back

Yes, the book has potential energy because of its position above the ground.

Front

What is the relationship between potential energy and height?

Back

Potential energy increases with height. The higher an object is, the more potential energy it has.

Front

What is the relationship between kinetic energy and speed?

Back

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