Forms of Energy & Their Equations

Flashcards about forms of energy and their equations

Energy

The stuff that makes stuff do stuff

All forms of energy

Units of joules, abbreviated J

Kinetic energy

𝐾𝐸 = 1 2𝑚𝑣2. Here, m is the mass of the object, and v is the speed

Gravitational potential energy

𝐺𝑃𝐸 = 𝑚𝑔ℎ. Here, m is the mass of the object, g is the gravitational field, and h is the vertical height of the object above its lowest position.

Spring potential energy

𝑆𝑃𝐸 = 1 2𝑘𝑥2. Here, k is the spring constant, and x is the distance the spring is stretched or compressed from its equilibrium position.

Work done by a steady force

𝑊 = 𝐹 ∙ 𝑑. Here, F is a force, and d is the distance the object moves while experiencing that force.

Conservation of Energy

Energy can be converted between different forms, but total energy must remain the same

Energy Bar Charts (EBCs)

Indicate where the object is at the two positions you’re considering. At each position, draw a bar for each form of energy the object possesses. Below each bar you drew, indicate briefly how you know the object has that form of energy.

Power

The amount of energy lost or gained per second

Unit of power

Joules per second or Watt [W]