Potential and Kinetic Energy

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 do work when released.

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy of an object in motion. It depends on the mass of the object and the speed at which it is moving.

Front

At which point is potential energy greatest in a pendulum?

Back

Potential energy is greatest at the highest points of the swing.

Front

What factors affect gravitational potential energy?

Back

Gravitational potential energy depends on the height and mass of the object.

Front

What is the formula for gravitational potential energy?

Back

The formula is PE = mgh, where PE is potential energy, m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is height.

Front

When is kinetic energy highest in a pendulum?

Back

Kinetic energy is highest at the lowest point of the swing.

Front

Give an example of potential energy.

Back

An example of potential energy is a pulled back string on an archer's bow.

Front

What happens to potential energy as an object falls?

Back

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

Front

What is the relationship between potential and kinetic energy in a closed system?

Back

In a closed system, the total mechanical energy (potential + kinetic) remains constant.

Front

What is an example of kinetic energy?

Back

An example of kinetic energy is a roller coaster speeding down a hill.