Kinetic and Potential Energy Flashcard

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy an object has due to its motion. The faster an object moves, the more kinetic energy it has.

Front

What is potential energy?

Back

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

Front

Give an example of kinetic energy.

Back

A baseball being thrown is an example of kinetic energy because it is in motion.

Front

Give an example of potential energy.

Back

A skier at the top of a mountain has potential energy because of its height.

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 the relationship between kinetic and potential energy?

Back

Kinetic and potential energy can transform into each other. For example, when a roller coaster goes down a hill, potential energy converts to kinetic energy.

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

How does speed affect kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy increases with the square of the speed. If the speed doubles, the kinetic energy increases by four times.

Front

How does height affect potential energy?

Back

Potential energy increases with height. The higher an object is, the more potential energy it has.