Potential and 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 hatbox on a high shelf has potential energy because of its height.

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy of an object in motion. For example, a flag blowing in the wind has kinetic energy because it is moving.

Front

Give an example of potential energy.

Back

A mousetrap set and ready to spring has potential energy because it is storing energy that can be released.

Front

Give an example of kinetic energy.

Back

A car driving down the road has kinetic energy because it is in motion.

Front

What happens to potential energy when an object falls?

Back

When an object falls, its potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as it moves downward.

Front

What is the relationship between potential and kinetic energy?

Back

Potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy and vice versa. For example, when a roller coaster goes down a hill, potential energy is converted into kinetic energy.

Front

What is an example of an object with both potential and kinetic energy?

Back

A ball thrown into the air has potential energy at its highest point and kinetic energy as it moves upward and downward.

Front

How does height affect potential energy?

Back

The higher an object is, the more potential energy it has because of the gravitational force acting on it.

Front

What is gravitational potential energy?

Back

Gravitational potential energy is the potential energy an object has due to its height above the ground.

Front

What is an example of kinetic energy in everyday life?

Back

A person running has kinetic energy because they are moving.