Potential & Kinetic Energy

Front

What is the definition of kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy that an object possesses 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 the definition of potential energy?

Back

Potential energy is the stored energy of an object due to its position or state. It is often associated with gravitational potential energy, which is calculated using the formula PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is height.

Front

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

Back

In a pendulum, potential energy is highest at the highest points of the swing (maximum height), while kinetic energy is highest at the lowest point of the swing (minimum height). As the pendulum swings, energy is converted between potential and kinetic forms.

Front

What is an example of potential energy?

Back

An example of potential energy is a rock held at the top of a hill. It has gravitational potential energy due to its height.

Front

What is an example of kinetic energy?

Back

An example of kinetic energy is a car moving down the road. The car has energy due to its motion.

Front

What factors affect kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is affected by the mass of the object and its velocity. Increasing either the mass or the velocity will increase the kinetic energy.

Front

What factors affect potential energy?

Back

Potential energy is affected by the mass of the object, the height above a reference point, and the gravitational acceleration. Increasing any of these factors will increase the potential energy.

Front

What is the principle of conservation of energy?

Back

The principle of conservation of energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another. The total energy in a closed system remains constant.

Front

How does running down a hill relate to potential and kinetic energy?

Back

When running down a hill, potential energy is converted into kinetic energy. As the runner descends, their height decreases, reducing potential energy, while their speed increases, increasing kinetic energy.

Front

What happens to potential energy as an object falls?

Back

As an object falls, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases. The total mechanical energy (potential + kinetic) remains constant if air resistance is negligible.