September 27, 2025

What Is Potential Energy

Q: What is the difference between potential and kinetic energy?

Potential energy is stored energy based on an object's position or state (like a stretched spring). Kinetic energy is the energy of motion (like a moving car). An object can have potential energy while being completely still.

Q: Are there different types of potential energy?

Yes. The main types include gravitational potential energy (due to height), elastic potential energy (in stretched or compressed objects), and chemical potential energy (stored in the bonds of atoms and molecules, like in a battery).

Learn the definition of potential energy, the stored energy an object has due to its position or state. Understand the concept with a clear, simple example.

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Defining Potential Energy

Potential energy is the stored energy an object possesses because of its position, state, or internal structure. It is energy that has the 'potential' to be converted into another form, like kinetic energy (the energy of motion), but is not currently being used.

A Clear Example of Potential Energy

Imagine a book sitting on a high shelf. The book is not moving, but it has gravitational potential energy due to its height. If the book were to fall off the shelf, that stored potential energy would be converted into kinetic energy as it moves towards the ground.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between potential and kinetic energy?

Are there different types of potential energy?