Energy and Energy Transformations

Front

What is potential energy?

Back

Potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or state. For example, an object at a height has potential energy because of the gravitational force acting on it.

Front

When do you have the most potential energy?

Back

You have the most potential energy when you are at the highest point, such as standing on top of a hill.

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

Where is kinetic energy maximum on a roller coaster?

Back

Kinetic energy is maximum at the bottom of a big hill on a roller coaster.

Front

What is thermal energy?

Back

Thermal energy is the total amount of energy from the movement of particles in matter. It is often felt as heat.

Front

What is the ability to do work called?

Back

The ability to do work is called energy.

Front

Where on a pendulum is potential energy the highest?

Back

Potential energy is highest at the highest point of the pendulum's swing, which is Position A.

Front

What is mechanical energy?

Back

Mechanical energy is the sum of potential energy and kinetic energy in an object.

Front

What happens to energy during transformations?

Back

During energy transformations, energy changes from one form to another, such as from potential energy to kinetic energy.

Front

What is an example of energy transformation?

Back

An example of energy transformation is a roller coaster: as it climbs, potential energy increases, and as it descends, that potential energy transforms into kinetic energy.