Potential & Kinetic Energy

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What is kinetic energy?

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Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion. It depends on the mass of the object and the square of its velocity.

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What is potential energy?

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Potential energy is the stored energy in an object due to its position or state. It is often associated with the height of an object above the ground.

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How is kinetic energy calculated?

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Kinetic energy (KE) is calculated using the formula: KE = 1/2 mv², where m is the mass and v is the velocity of the object.

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How is potential energy calculated?

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Potential energy (PE) is calculated using the formula: PE = mgh, where m is the mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height above the ground.

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What happens to potential energy when an object is raised higher?

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When an object is raised higher, its potential energy increases because it has more stored energy due to its elevated position.

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NGSS.MS-PS3-2

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What happens to kinetic energy when an object's speed increases?

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As an object's speed increases, its kinetic energy increases significantly because kinetic energy is proportional to the square of the velocity.

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Can potential energy be converted to kinetic energy?

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Yes, potential energy can be converted to kinetic energy, such as when an object falls from a height.

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What is an example of potential energy?

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An example of potential energy is a book placed on a high shelf, as it has the potential to fall.

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What is an example of kinetic energy?

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An example of kinetic energy is a car driving on the highway, as it is in motion.

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Does a heavier object have more kinetic energy than a lighter object at the same speed?

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Yes, a heavier object has more kinetic energy than a lighter object at the same speed because kinetic energy depends on mass.