Question

Which statement best compares potential and kinetic energy?

Objects always have more potential energy than kinetic energy.
Only kinetic energy increases when the velocity of an object increases.
Only potential energy decreases when an object’s height increases.
Objects always have more kinetic energy than potential energy.

Answer 1

Only kinetic energy increases when the velocity of an object increases. This makes the most sense because potential energy is being used as kinetic energy increases. Hope this helps!

Answer 2

Answer: Option (b) is the correct answer.

Explanation:

Kinetic energy is the energy obtained by an object due to its motion. Also, kinetic energy increases with increase in velocity of the object.

Mathematically,       K.E. = $\frac{1}{2}mv^{2}$

Whereas potential energy is the energy obtained by an object due to its position.

Mathematically,      P.E. = mgh

That is, potential energy increases with increase in height of the object.

Thus, we can conclude that the statement only kinetic energy increases when the velocity of an object increases, best compares potential and kinetic energy.