learn about potential and kinetic energy

1 answer

Sure, I can help you with that. In simple terms, potential energy is the stored energy an object possesses due to its position or condition. It is the energy that an object stores because of its position in a field of force like gravity or an electric field. A good example of potential energy is a stretched rubber band, a compressed spring, or a coiled spring.

Kinetic energy refers to the energy an object possesses due to its motion. When an object is in motion, it gains kinetic energy. The formula for kinetic energy is K.E. = 1/2 mv², where m is the mass of the object and v is its velocity.

The key difference between potential and kinetic energy is that potential energy is the energy an object possesses due to its position or state, whereas kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion.

In many cases, potential energy can be transformed into kinetic energy. For example, when a roller coaster or pendulum is released from its highest point, potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as the object moves downward.

I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any further questions.