Question

Upon what basic quantity does kinetic energy depend? Upon what basic quantity does potential energy depend?

Short answer

The kinetic energy depends on mass and speed.

The potential energy depends on position.

Step-by-step solution

Content Introduction

Kinetic energy is a type of energy that may be exchanged between objects and converted into other forms of energy. The quantity of kinetic energy that an object has is determined by two variables: the object's mass (m) and its speed (v).

Explanation of Kinetic Energy

The kinetic energy of an item is directly proportional to the square of its speed. This indicates that a twofold increase in speed will result in a fourfold increase in kinetic energy. The kinetic energy will increase by a factor of nine for every threefold increase in speed. The square of the speed determines the kinetic energy.

Explanation of Potential Energy

Potential energy is the energy that is stored in a system and is determined by the relative positions of various pieces of the system. When a spring is compressed or stretched, it has more potential energy. In systems where parts exert forces on each other that are proportionate to their configuration, or relative position, potential energy is formed.