Potential and Kinetic Energy VOCAB

Front

What is potential energy?

Back

Potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or state. For example, a stretched bow has potential energy because it can do work when released.

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

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.

Front

What is the formula for kinetic energy?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between potential and kinetic energy?

Back

Potential energy is stored energy based on position, while kinetic energy is the energy of motion.

Front

What is translational kinetic energy?

Back

Translational kinetic energy describes the energy of an object moving from one point to another in space.

Front

Who introduced the term 'kinetic energy'?

Back

The term 'kinetic energy' was first used by Lord Kelvin in 1849.

Front

What does 'speed' refer to in physics?

Back

Speed refers to how fast an object is moving, typically measured in meters per second (m/s).

Front

What is an example of potential energy?

Back

A stretched bow is an example of potential energy, as it has the potential to do work when released.

Front

What is gravitational potential energy?

Back

Gravitational potential energy is the energy an object possesses due to its height above the ground, calculated as PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is acceleration due to gravity, and h is height.

Front

What is mechanical energy?

Back

Mechanical energy is the sum of potential energy and kinetic energy in an object.