What is potential energy?

What is potential energy?

• A. The energy that an object has due to motion
• B. The energy that is stored and held in readiness
• C. The energy of motion transferred during a task
• D. The energy produced when an object is in motion

Answer: (B)

Potential energy refers to the energy that is stored in an object due to its position or state, ready to be converted into kinetic energy when required. For instance, in the case of a book placed on a shelf, it has gravitational potential energy because of its elevated position. This energy is held in readiness and can be released when the book falls, transforming into kinetic energy as it moves. In contrast, the other choices describe forms of energy associated with motion or activity rather than stored energy. For example, energy due to motion is specifically defined as kinetic energy, while the energy produced during motion also relates directly to kinetic energy transformation. Therefore, "the energy that is stored and held in readiness" accurately captures the essence of potential energy.

Potential energy refers to the energy that is stored in an object due to its position or state, ready to be converted into kinetic energy when required. For instance, in the case of a book placed on a shelf, it has gravitational potential energy because of its elevated position. This energy is held in readiness and can be released when the book falls, transforming into kinetic energy as it moves.

In contrast, the other choices describe forms of energy associated with motion or activity rather than stored energy. For example, energy due to motion is specifically defined as kinetic energy, while the energy produced during motion also relates directly to kinetic energy transformation. Therefore, "the energy that is stored and held in readiness" accurately captures the essence of potential energy.