Potential vs. Kinetic Energy

Front

What is the definition of potential energy?

Back

Potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or configuration. It is the energy that has the potential to be converted into kinetic energy.

Front

What is the definition of kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy of an object in motion. It is dependent on the mass of the object and the square of its velocity.

Front

What is the formula for calculating potential energy?

Back

The formula for potential energy (PE) is PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height above a reference point.

Front

What is the formula for calculating kinetic energy?

Back

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

Front

How does potential energy change as an object moves downward?

Back

As an object moves downward, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases, assuming no energy is lost to friction or air resistance.

Front

What is the relationship between potential energy and height?

Back

Potential energy is directly proportional to height; as height increases, potential energy increases.

Front

What is an example of potential energy in everyday life?

Back

A common example of potential energy is a book placed on a shelf. It has potential energy due to its height above the ground.

Front

What is an example of kinetic energy in everyday life?

Back

A moving car is an example of kinetic energy, as it has energy due to its motion.

Front

What happens to the total mechanical energy in a closed system?

Back

In a closed system, the total mechanical energy (the sum of potential and kinetic energy) remains constant, assuming no external forces do work on the system.

Front

What is gravitational potential energy?

Back

Gravitational potential energy is the potential energy associated with an object's height in a gravitational field, calculated using the formula PE = mgh.