Question 1

Define potential energy and kinetic energy in your own words. How are they different?

Accepted Answer

Potential energy is stored energy due to an object's position, while kinetic energy is the energy of motion. Potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy and vice versa.

Question 2

A book is resting on a table. Does it have potential energy? If so, what determines the amount of potential energy it has?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the book has potential energy. The amount of potential energy is determined by its mass, the acceleration due to gravity, and its height above the ground (or a reference point).

Question 3

A roller coaster car is at the top of a hill. Describe the energy transformations that occur as it goes down the hill.

Accepted Answer

At the top, the roller coaster has maximum potential energy and minimal kinetic energy. As it goes down the hill, potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, increasing its speed.

Question 4

Which of the following scenarios involves kinetic energy?

Accepted Answer

A car moving down a highway

Question 5

Explain the law of conservation of energy and how it relates to the conversion between potential and kinetic energy.

Accepted Answer

The law of conservation of energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only converted from one form to another. When potential energy is converted to kinetic energy (or vice versa), the total amount of energy in the system remains constant (ignoring losses due to friction, etc.).

Kinetic and Potential Energy

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