Kinetic and Potential energy - Flashcard

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion. It is calculated using the formula KE = 1/2 mv², where m is mass and v is velocity.

Front

What is potential energy?

Back

Potential energy is the stored energy in an object due to its position or state. It is often associated with gravitational potential energy, which is calculated using the formula PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is height.

Front

How does potential energy change as an object falls?

Back

As an object falls, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases, assuming no other forces (like air resistance) are acting on it.

Front

What happens to kinetic energy at the highest point of a pendulum swing?

Back

At the highest point of a pendulum swing, the kinetic energy is at its minimum (zero) because the pendulum is momentarily at rest.

Front

What happens to potential energy at the lowest point of a pendulum swing?

Back

At the lowest point of a pendulum swing, the potential energy is at its minimum (zero) because the height is at its lowest.

Front

What is the law of conservation of energy?

Back

The law of conservation of energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another.

Front

In which position does a roller coaster have the most potential energy?

Back

A roller coaster has the most gravitational potential energy at the highest point of the track.

Front

In which position does a roller coaster have the most kinetic energy?

Back

A roller coaster has the most kinetic energy at the lowest point of the track, where it is moving the fastest.

Front

What is an example of energy transformation?

Back

An example of energy transformation is when a roller coaster descends from a height, converting potential energy into kinetic energy.

Front

What is gravitational potential energy?

Back

Gravitational potential energy is the potential energy an object has due to its height above the ground, calculated as PE = mgh.