Understanding Potential Energy

Potential energy is the energy that objects have when they are in a position to move or change. It can be turned into energy that does work. There are different types of potential energy:

1. Gravitational Potential Energy (GPE):

   • Gravitational potential energy happens when an object is lifted up high.
   • The formula for GPE is: $GPE = mgh$ Here’s what each letter means:
   • $m$ = the weight of the object (in kilograms)
   • $g$ = the pull of gravity (about $9.81 \, \text{m/s}^2$ on Earth)
   • $h$ = how high the object is above the ground (in meters)

2. Elastic Potential Energy:

   • This type of energy is found in things like springs and rubber bands that can stretch or squish.
   • The formula for elastic potential energy is: $EPE = \frac{1}{2} k x^2$ Here’s what the letters mean:
   • $k$ = spring constant (how stiff the spring is)
   • $x$ = how much the object is stretched or compressed (in meters)

3. Chemical Potential Energy:

   • This energy is stored in the bonds that hold different chemicals together.
   • For instance, food contains energy that our bodies use.

When potential energy is used, it changes into other types of energy and helps objects do work. This shows how energy can change from one form to another.