Kinetic and Potential Energy

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy of motion. It is the energy an object has because it is moving.

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.

Front

What happens to potential energy when an object falls?

Back

As an object falls, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases.

Front

Can you give an example of kinetic energy?

Back

A moving car, a running dog, or a thrown ball are all examples of kinetic energy.

Front

Can you give an example of potential energy?

Back

A stretched rubber band, a book on a shelf, or water stored in a dam are examples of potential energy.

Front

What is the relationship between kinetic and potential energy?

Back

Kinetic and potential energy can transform into each other. For example, when a roller coaster goes down a hill, potential energy converts to kinetic energy.

Front

What is gravitational potential energy?

Back

Gravitational potential energy is the potential energy an object has due to its height above the ground. The higher the object, the more gravitational potential energy it has.

Front

What factors affect kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy depends on the mass of the object and the speed at which it is moving. The formula is KE = 1/2 mv².

Front

What factors affect potential energy?

Back

Potential energy depends on the mass of the object, the height above the ground, and the gravitational force. The formula is PE = mgh.

Front

What is mechanical energy?

Back

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