Definition Of Potential Energy

Definition Of Potential Energy

The machine in which force is transmitted by liquids under pressure is known as hydraulic machine. 

There are Two Types of potential energy
A. Energy due to height or gravitational potential energy.
Gravitational Potential Energy = mgh

B. Energy due to tension of a spring 
P . E spring = k . x 
Where k is the spring constant.
 

More About Potential Energy:

Gravitational potential energy of a body increases with increase in height.
Potential energy equal to the work done to bring the body to a particular position.
S.I. unit of potential energy = work done is joule.
W = F X S = (Force is measured in Newtons and the displacement in meters).
Hence the Work done Newton X meter = 1 Joule.


Example 1: A body has potential energy 300J, then the work done to bring the body into that position is 300J.
Reason: Potential energy = work done

Examples of Potential Energy

The energy of water in a water tank.
The energy of a compressed spring that moves a toy car
 

Solved Example on Potential Energy:

A body of mass 3 kg is placed at a height of 5m, then the potential energy is

A. 140J
B. 147J
C. 260J
D. 50J

Correct answer is B. 

Solution :

The following system contains fluid
 

Step 1: Write down the equation of potential energy. P . E = mgh 
Step 2: Insert the value of the mass, height and acceleration = 3 x 9. 8 x 5
Step 3: Write down the final answer in joules.
Step 4: P.E. =147j 

Related Terms: Energy | Power | Kinetic Energy | Work Done