Energy basics

Front

What is potential energy?

Back

Potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or height. For example, a book on a shelf has potential energy because it can fall.

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy of an object in motion. The faster an object moves, the more kinetic energy it has.

Front

At which point is potential energy greatest?

Back

Potential energy is greatest at the highest point of an object's position.

Front

At which point is kinetic energy greatest?

Back

Kinetic energy is greatest at the lowest point of an object's position, where it is moving the fastest.

Front

How does height affect gravitational potential energy?

Back

Gravitational potential energy increases as height increases. The higher an object is, the more potential energy it has.

Front

What happens to energy when a book is dropped?

Back

When a book is dropped, its potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as it falls, and then into sound energy when it hits the ground.

Front

What is the law of conservation of energy?

Back

The law of conservation of energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another.

Front

What is an example of energy transformation?

Back

An example of energy transformation is when a light bulb converts electrical energy into light energy.

Front

What is the relationship between speed and kinetic energy?

Back

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

Front

What is an example of potential energy?

Back

An example of potential energy is a roller coaster at the top of a hill, ready to descend.