Let’s go step by step to figure out whether each situation is
potential energy or
kinetic energy.
Remember:
-
Potential energy = stored energy, waiting to be used (like something not moving yet but could move).
-
Kinetic energy = energy of motion (something that is currently moving).
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1.
The apple in the table is ___ energy.
→ The apple is sitting still on the table. It’s not moving. But if it falls, it *could* move — so right now, it has stored energy.
✔ Potential
2.
The apple falling from the table is ___ energy.
→ Now it’s moving downward! Motion = kinetic.
✔ Kinetic
3.
If the rock falls from the hill, it is ___ energy.
→ Falling = moving → kinetic.
✔ Kinetic
4.
If the rock is still, it is ___ energy.
→ Not moving → stored energy → potential.
✔ Potential
5.
If the cyclist is still, he has ___ energy.
→ Standing still? Then no motion → potential (he could start pedaling!).
✔ Potential
6.
If he is moving, he has ___ energy.
→ Moving = kinetic.
✔ Kinetic
7.
If the yoyo is still at the top, it is ___ energy.
→ At the top, not moving yet → stored up to fall → potential.
✔ Potential
8.
If the yoyo is moving, it is ___ energy.
→ Moving down or up → motion → kinetic.
✔ Kinetic
9.
If the boy throws the ball is ___ energy.
→ Throwing means the ball is in motion → kinetic.
✔ Kinetic
10.
The ball on the boy’s hand is ___ energy.
→ Sitting in his hand, not thrown yet → stored → potential.
✔ Potential
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Final Answer:
1. Potential
2. Kinetic
3. Kinetic
4. Potential
5. Potential
6. Kinetic
7. Potential
8. Kinetic
9. Kinetic
10. Potential
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of science worksheet for 8th graders.
