P1-07 Energy

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

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

Front

What is gravitational potential energy?

Back

Gravitational potential energy is the energy an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field, calculated as PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is height.

Front

What is the principle of conservation of mechanical energy?

Back

The principle states that in a closed system with no non-conservative forces (like friction), the total mechanical energy (kinetic + potential) remains constant.

Front

How does the height of an object affect its gravitational potential energy?

Back

Gravitational potential energy increases with height; doubling the height will double the potential energy, assuming mass remains constant.

Front

What happens to kinetic energy as a pendulum swings?

Back

As a pendulum swings, kinetic energy is highest at the lowest point of the swing and lowest at the highest points, where potential energy is highest.

Front

What is the relationship between mass and gravitational potential energy?

Back

Gravitational potential energy is directly proportional to mass; if mass increases, potential energy increases, assuming height remains constant.

Front

What does ΔU < 0 indicate in a system?

Back

ΔU < 0 indicates that the gravitational potential energy of the system is decreasing, often as objects fall or move downward.

Front

What is the formula for total mechanical energy in a system?

Back

Total mechanical energy (E) is the sum of kinetic energy (KE) and gravitational potential energy (PE): E = KE + PE.

Front

What is the significance of a pendulum's release angle?

Back

The release angle affects the initial potential energy; a larger angle means higher potential energy and thus greater kinetic energy at the lowest point.

Front

What is the effect of friction on mechanical energy?

Back

Friction is a non-conservative force that converts mechanical energy into thermal energy, causing a decrease in total mechanical energy.