Lesson 3.4 Energy Change and Conservation

Front

What is potential energy?

Back

Potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or state. For example, a bowstring pulled back has maximum potential energy.

Front

What happens to potential energy when an object is released?

Back

When an object is released, its potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as it moves.

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

What is energy transformation?

Back

Energy transformation is when one form of energy changes into another form. For example, when a ball falls, its potential energy transforms into kinetic energy.

Front

What is energy transfer?

Back

Energy transfer is when energy moves from one object to another without changing its form. For example, when a moving ball hits a stationary ball, energy is transferred.

Front

Can energy be created or destroyed?

Back

No, according to the law of conservation of energy, energy cannot be created or destroyed; it can only change forms.

Front

What is an example of energy transformation in everyday life?

Back

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

Front

What is an example of energy transfer?

Back

An example of energy transfer is when heat moves from a hot stove to a pot of water.

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

How does height affect potential energy?

Back

The higher an object is, the more potential energy it has because it has the potential to fall.