Potential & Kinetic Energy

What is Energy?

Energy is the ability to do work. It exists in various forms, and in this section, we focus on mechanical energy, which includes potential energy and kinetic energy.

Potential Energy (P.E)

• Definition: Potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or state. It is often associated with gravitational force.
• Formula: The gravitational potential energy of an object is given by:
  $$\text{P.E} = mgh$$
  where:
  • m = mass of the object (in kilograms, kg)
  • g = acceleration due to gravity (approximately $9.8 \, \text{m/s}^2$ on Earth)
  • h = height above the reference point (in meters, m)

Kinetic Energy (K.E)

• Definition: Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion.
• Formula: The kinetic energy of an object is calculated as:
  $$\text{K.E} = \frac{1}{2}mv^2$$
  where:
  • m = mass of the object (in kilograms, kg)
  • v = velocity of the object (in meters per second, m/s)

Verification of the Principle of Kinetic Energy

The principle of kinetic energy can be verified by demonstrating that the work done on an object is equal to the change in its kinetic energy.

Types of Energy

• Mechanical Energy: Combination of potential and kinetic energy.
• Thermal Energy: Energy related to the temperature of an object.
• Chemical Energy: Energy stored in chemical bonds.
• Electrical Energy: Energy from electric currents.