- Kinetic energy is the energy of motion.
- Potential energy is stored energy, often due to position or state.
- A roller coaster has the most potential energy at the top of the highest peak because it is at its greatest height.
- A roller coaster has the most kinetic energy at the bottom of a hill because it is moving fastest.
- A rubber band stretched has potential energy; when released, it converts to kinetic energy.
- A soccer ball kicked has kinetic energy as it moves through the air.
- A snowboarder going down a mountain gains kinetic energy and loses potential energy.
- A spring compressed has potential energy; when released, it transfers to kinetic energy.
- A glass teetering on the edge of a table has potential energy due to its height.
- When the glass falls, its potential energy converts to kinetic energy.
- Electricity is the energy of moving electrons, so it is kinetic energy.
- The Law of Conservation of Energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or transformed.
- Gravitational potential energy depends on height and mass; kinetic energy depends on mass and velocity.
- Both gravitational potential and kinetic energy are forms of mechanical energy.
- An example of kinetic energy: a running person.
- An example of potential energy: a book on a high shelf.
- Ellen has the most potential energy at the top of the slide (A).
- Ellen has the most kinetic energy at the bottom of the slide (C).
- Yes, at every point during her journey, the total mechanical energy (potential + kinetic) remains constant, demonstrating the Law of Conservation of Energy.
- Mike has more potential energy if he is higher on the seesaw.
- Lily and Tina have the most potential energy at the highest point of their swing.
- They have the most kinetic energy at the lowest point of their swing.
- As they swing down, potential energy converts to kinetic energy.
- As they swing up, kinetic energy converts back to potential energy.
- At the top of the roller coaster loop (C), it has the most potential energy.
- At the bottom of the loop (A or E), it has the most kinetic energy.
- Potential energy is becoming less as the roller coaster descends.
- Kinetic energy is becoming more as the roller coaster speeds up.
- Location D has more kinetic energy than E because it is lower and moving faster.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of kinetic energy worksheet answers.
