Potential and Kinetic Energy

Front

What is Potential Energy (PE)?

Back

Potential Energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or state. For example, a rock at the top of a hill has potential energy because of its height.

Front

What is Kinetic Energy (KE)?

Back

Kinetic Energy is the energy of an object in motion. For example, a moving car or a thrown baseball has kinetic energy.

Front

At which point is kinetic energy greatest in a roller coaster ride?

Back

Kinetic energy is greatest at the lowest point of the ride, where the speed is highest.

Front

What happens to potential energy as an object falls?

Back

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

Front

Give an example of an object with potential energy.

Back

A book on a shelf has potential energy because it can fall due to gravity.

Front

Give an example of an object with kinetic energy.

Back

A running dog has kinetic energy because it is in motion.

Front

What type of energy does a stretched rubber band have?

Back

A stretched rubber band has potential energy due to its position and tension.

Front

What type of energy does a moving bicycle have?

Back

A moving bicycle has kinetic energy because it is in motion.

Front

How is energy conserved in a pendulum?

Back

In a pendulum, energy is conserved as it transforms between potential energy at the highest points and kinetic energy at the lowest point.

Front

What is the relationship between mass and kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy increases with mass; if two objects are moving at the same speed, the heavier object has more kinetic energy.