Question

Give four examples of potential energy. In each case, how can the potential energy be converted into kinetic energy?

Short answer

The four examples of potential energy are: 1) Gravitational potential energy - when an object falls, it converts potential energy into kinetic. 2) Elastic potential energy - when a spring is released, the potential energy is converted into kinetic energy. 3) Electrostatic potential energy - when charged particles are released, the potential energy is converted into kinetic energy. 4) Chemical potential energy - when food is metabolized, the potential energy is converted into kinetic energy that the cells use.

Step-by-step solution

Example 1: Gravitational potential energy

A book on a shelf has gravitational potential energy. When the book falls off the shelf, this potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as it begins to move towards the ground.

Example 2: Elastic potential energy

A compressed spring has elastic potential energy. When the spring is released, the potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as the spring expands and propels an object.

Example 3: Electrostatic potential energy

Two charged particles at rest have electrostatic potential energy. When they are released, this potential energy is converted to kinetic energy as they begin to move due to the electric force between them.

Example 4: Chemical potential energy

Food contains chemical potential energy. When it is metabolized in the body, the potential energy is converted to kinetic energy that cells use to perform work.