Potential vs. 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 drawn bow has potential energy because of its position.

Front

What is Kinetic Energy?

Back

Kinetic Energy is the energy of an object in motion. The faster an object moves, the more kinetic energy it has.

Front

What is the relationship between mass and kinetic energy?

Back

The relationship is linear; as mass increases, kinetic energy increases proportionally if speed is constant.

Front

What is the relationship between speed and kinetic energy?

Back

The relationship is parabolic; as speed increases, kinetic energy increases with the square of the speed.

Front

What happens to potential energy as an object falls?

Back

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

Front

What is an example of kinetic energy in everyday life?

Back

A moving car, a running dog, or a thrown ball are all examples of kinetic energy.

Front

What is an example of potential energy in everyday life?

Back

A book on a shelf, a stretched rubber band, or water stored in a dam are examples of potential energy.

Front

How does height affect potential energy?

Back

The higher an object is, the more potential energy it has due to its position relative to the ground.

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 formula for 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 height.