physics: Ek and Ep

Question 1

what is gravitational potential energy?

• Ep(grav)

Answer 1

energy stored in an object b/c of its position above the surface of the earth

Question 2

what is elastic potential energy?

• Ep(elas) = mgh (J)

Answer 2

energy stored in an object that has its shape changed by stretching, twisting, or compressing

Question 3

what is chemical potential energy? energy stored

Answer 3

energy stored in the bonds of chemical compounds

Question 4

what is kinetic energy?

• Ek= 1/2mv ^2

Answer 4

energy if motion (vertical or horizontal)

Question 5

2 things about scalar properties:

Answer 5

1. measured in kg

2. doesn’t change with location

Question 6

2 things about vector properties:

Answer 6

1. measured in newtons (N)

2. depends on its mass (scalar) and acceleration due to gravity (vector)

Question 7

what is mechanical energy?

• Em = Ep + Ek

Answer 7

mechanical Energy is the energy due to the motion and position of an object

Question 8

what is the law of conservation of energy?

• 3 things

Answer 8

1. total amount of energy in a given situation remains constant
2. energy can be converted btwn themselves, total energy stays the same
3. therefore total mechanical energy remains constant