Potential vs. Kinetic Energy

Front

What is potential energy?

Back

Potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or state. For example, a drawn bow has potential energy because of its position.

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

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

Back

When an object's speed doubles, its kinetic energy quadruples.

Front

What is the relationship between kinetic energy and speed?

Back

The relationship is represented by a parabolic graph, indicating that kinetic energy increases with the square of speed.

Front

What are indicators that an object has energy?

Back

Light, sound, heat, and motion are indicators that an object has energy.

Front

Does the amount of material affect the amount of energy an object has?

Back

Yes, the amount of material (mass) affects the amount of energy an object has.

Front

What is the formula for 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 gravitational potential energy?

Back

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

Front

What is mechanical energy?

Back

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