Mechanical Energy*

Front

What is mechanical energy?

Back

Mechanical energy is the sum of potential energy and kinetic energy in an object. It is the energy associated with the motion and position of an object.

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

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

Front

What is potential energy?

Back

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

Front

How does height affect potential energy?

Back

The higher an object is, the more potential energy it has. This is because potential energy is directly proportional to height.

Front

What happens to kinetic energy as an object speeds up?

Back

As an object speeds up, its kinetic energy increases because kinetic energy is proportional to the square of its velocity.

Front

What is the principle of conservation of mechanical energy?

Back

The principle states that in a closed system, the total mechanical energy (potential + kinetic) remains constant if only conservative forces are acting.

Front

What is acceleration?

Back

Acceleration is the rate of change of velocity of an object. It can occur due to a change in speed or direction.

Front

Can an object be accelerating if its speed is constant?

Back

Yes, an object can be accelerating if its direction is changing, even if its speed remains constant, such as in circular motion.

Front

What is an example of increasing potential energy?

Back

Pulling a wagon uphill is an example of increasing potential energy because the height of the wagon increases.

Front

What is the relationship between potential energy and kinetic energy in a roller coaster?

Back

As a roller coaster climbs to a higher point, potential energy increases. As it descends, potential energy converts to kinetic energy, increasing speed.