Kinetic and Potential Energy

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What is Kinetic Energy?

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Kinetic energy is the energy of an object in motion. It depends on the mass of the object and the speed at which it is moving.

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What is Potential Energy?

Back

Potential energy is stored energy that has the potential to do work. It is often associated with the position of an object.

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How is Kinetic Energy calculated?

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Kinetic energy (KE) is calculated using the formula KE = 1/2 mv², where m is mass and v is velocity.

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How is Potential Energy calculated?

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Potential energy (PE) is calculated using the formula PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is height.

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Where is Kinetic Energy highest on a roller coaster?

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

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Where is Potential Energy highest on a roller coaster?

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Potential energy is highest at the highest point of the roller coaster, where the height is greatest.

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What happens to Potential Energy as an object falls?

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

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What happens to Kinetic Energy as an object rises?

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

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How does mass affect Kinetic Energy?

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Increasing the mass of an object increases its kinetic energy if the speed remains constant.

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How does height affect Potential Energy?

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Increasing the height of an object increases its potential energy if the mass remains constant.