Types of Potential Energy - Task Cards

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What is Elastic Potential Energy?

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Elastic potential energy is the energy stored in elastic materials as the result of their stretching or compressing. Examples include a compressed spring or a stretched rubber band.

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What is Gravitational Potential Energy?

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Gravitational potential energy is the energy an object possesses because of its position in a gravitational field. It is highest when the object is at the highest point, like a roller coaster at the top of a hill.

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What is Chemical Potential Energy?

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Chemical potential energy is the energy stored in the bonds of chemical compounds, like food or fuel. It is released during a chemical reaction.

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Example of Elastic Potential Energy?

Back

A compressed air tank used for scuba diving or a compressed spring in a toy.

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Example of Gravitational Potential Energy?

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A roller coaster car at the highest point before it descends.

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Example of Chemical Potential Energy?

Back

Food stored in your lunchbox before you eat it or gasoline in a car.

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How does height affect Gravitational Potential Energy?

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The higher an object is, the more gravitational potential energy it has due to its position in the gravitational field.

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What happens to Elastic Potential Energy when the object is released?

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When the object is released, the stored elastic potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as the object returns to its original shape.

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What is the formula for Gravitational Potential Energy?

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The formula is PE = mgh, where PE is potential energy, m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is height.

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What is the relationship between Chemical Potential Energy and food?

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Food contains chemical potential energy that is released when the body metabolizes it for energy.