Science
Potential energy.
Definition
Potential energy is stored energy an object has due to its position, condition, or composition. Gravitational potential energy depends on an object's height and mass, while elastic potential energy is stored in stretched or compressed materials.
Examples
Real-world.
- 1 A book held above a table has gravitational potential energy
- 2 A drawn bow stores elastic potential energy before releasing an arrow
- 3 Water behind a dam has potential energy that can be converted to electricity
Key Fact
Gravitational PE = mgh; Elastic PE = ½kx²