Question

mechanical energy kinetic & potential energy webquest
mechanical energy is the sum of the potential (stored) energy and kinetic (moving) energy that an object possesses. in this webquest, you will conduct research and activities to gain a deeper understanding of potential and kinetic energies.
task 1: define
conduct a search for the terms below. write a definition for each term.
kinetic energy: ____
potential energy:____
task 2: experience
explore the link below and take a virtual ride on cedar point’s top thrill dragster. https://www.cedarpoint.com/play/rides/top - thrill - dragster

1. in the space provided, make a sketch of what the roller coaster track looks like.
2. next, label the point(s) at which the coaster has the greatest potential energy (p) and the greatest kinetic energy (k). *you may have to play the animation more than once.

task 3: explore
there are 2 types of potential energy. visit the website listed below and view the animation. from the animation, write your own definition for each of the terms listed below. then, conduct a quick search to see if your definitions were correct. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnj8mc04r9e
my definition researched definition
gravitational potential energy
elastic potential energy

Explanation:

Kinetic energy is the energy of motion, calculated as $KE=\frac{1}{2}mv^{2}$ where $m$ is mass and $v$ is velocity. Potential energy is stored energy. Gravitational potential energy ($PE_g = mgh$, $h$ is height) is due to an object's position in a gravitational - field. Elastic potential energy ($PE_e=\frac{1}{2}kx^{2}$, $k$ is the spring constant and $x$ is displacement) is in a stretched or compressed elastic object. For a roller - coaster, greatest potential energy is at the highest point and greatest kinetic energy is at the lowest point (assuming no friction losses).

Answer:

Kinetic Energy: The energy an object has due to its motion, calculated by $KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^{2}$.
Potential Energy: Stored energy, which can be gravitational (due to height in a gravitational field) or elastic (in a stretched/compressed elastic object).
For the roller - coaster sketch: The point with greatest potential energy (P) is at the highest point of the track. The point with greatest kinetic energy (K) is at the lowest point of the track.
Gravitational Potential Energy - My Definition: Energy stored due to an object's height in a gravitational field. Researched Definition: The energy an object has because of its position in a gravitational field, given by $PE_g=mgh$.
Elastic Potential Energy - My Definition: Energy stored in a stretched or compressed elastic object. Researched Definition: The energy stored in an elastic object when it is deformed, given by $PE_e=\frac{1}{2}kx^{2}$.