potential and kinetic energy

Front

What is potential energy?

Back

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

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy of an object in motion. For example, a moving car or a running dog has kinetic energy.

Front

When does an object have potential energy?

Back

An object has potential energy when it is at rest and has the potential to move due to its position, like a ball at the top of a hill.

Front

What is an example of potential energy?

Back

An example of potential energy is gasoline in a gas tank, which can be used to power a car.

Front

What is an example of kinetic energy?

Back

An example of kinetic energy is a ball thrown across the yard.

Front

How can potential energy be converted to kinetic energy?

Back

Potential energy can be converted to kinetic energy when an object moves. For example, when a roller coaster goes down a hill, its potential energy turns into kinetic energy.

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

What is the formula for kinetic energy?

Back

The formula for kinetic energy is KE = 1/2 mv², where m is mass and v is velocity.

Front

What is the formula for potential energy?

Back

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

Front

Can an object have both potential and kinetic energy at the same time?

Back

Yes, an object can have both potential and kinetic energy at the same time, such as a swinging pendulum.