Kinetic and Potential Energy

Front

What is Kinetic Energy?

Back

Kinetic Energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion. The faster an object moves, the more kinetic energy it has.

Front

What is Potential Energy?

Back

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

Front

Give an example of Kinetic Energy.

Back

A boy running around a track is an example of kinetic energy because he is in motion.

Front

Give an example of Potential Energy.

Back

A rubber band that is stretched out is an example of potential energy because it has the potential to snap back.

Front

What happens to Potential Energy when an object falls?

Back

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

Front

What is the relationship between Kinetic and Potential Energy?

Back

Kinetic and potential energy are forms of mechanical energy. They can convert into each other; for example, potential energy converts to kinetic energy when an object falls.

Front

What is an example of an object with Potential Energy at rest?

Back

A car that is stopped at a traffic light has potential energy because it is not moving but has the potential to move.

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

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 height.

Front

How does height affect Potential Energy?

Back

The higher an object is, the more potential energy it has because it has a greater height (h) in the potential energy formula.