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 rock at the top of a hill has potential energy because of its height.

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

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

Front

Which has more kinetic energy: a fast-moving car or a slow-moving bicycle?

Back

A fast-moving car has more kinetic energy than a slow-moving bicycle because kinetic energy increases with speed.

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 formula for kinetic energy?

Back

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

Front

What is the relationship between mass and kinetic energy?

Back

Increasing an object's mass increases its kinetic energy if its speed remains constant.

Front

What is the relationship between speed and kinetic energy?

Back

Increasing an object's speed increases its kinetic energy, and it has a greater effect than increasing mass.

Front

Give an example of potential energy in everyday life.

Back

A stretched rubber band has potential energy because it is stored energy that can do work when released.

Front

What type of energy does a moving skateboard have?

Back

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

Front

What type of energy does a book on a shelf have?

Back

A book on a shelf has potential energy because of its position above the ground.