Potential and Kinetic Energy

Front

What is Potential Energy?

Back

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

Front

What is Kinetic Energy?

Back

Kinetic Energy is the energy of an object in motion. For example, a rolling ball has kinetic 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

What is an example of both Potential and Kinetic Energy?

Back

A person climbing a ladder has both potential energy (due to height) and kinetic energy (due to movement).

Front

What is an example of energy transformation from Potential to Kinetic Energy?

Back

A swing swaying back and forth transforms potential energy at its highest point to kinetic energy as it swings down.

Front

What is Gravitational Potential Energy?

Back

Gravitational Potential Energy is the potential energy held by an object because of its height above the ground.

Front

How does height affect Potential Energy?

Back

The higher an object is, the more potential energy it has, because potential energy is directly proportional to height.

Front

What is an example of Kinetic Energy changing to Potential Energy?

Back

A person walking up a hill converts kinetic energy (movement) into potential energy (height gained).

Front

At which point is Potential Energy greatest on a swing?

Back

Potential energy is greatest at the highest point of the swing.

Front

What is the formula for calculating Potential Energy?

Back

Potential Energy (PE) = mass (m) × gravitational acceleration (g) × height (h).