AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Flashcards: Potential Energy
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 14 cards to help you master important concepts.
What physical aspect of a system is potential energy associated with?
Potential energy is associated with the position of the objects that make up the system.
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What physical aspect of a system is potential energy associated with?
Potential energy is associated with the position of the objects that make up the system.
What is the relationship between conservative forces and potential energy?
Potential energy can only be defined for a system if the objects within it interact exclusively through conservative forces.
Can a single, isolated object possess potential energy?
No, potential energy is a property of a system composed of two or more interacting objects.
Under what condition is the equation $\Delta U_g = mg\Delta y$ a valid approximation?
This approximation is valid when the object is near the surface of the planet.
What condition is necessary for a system of two or more objects to have potential energy?
The objects within the system must interact with each other only through conservative forces.
What two specific types of potential energy systems are described by the provided equations?
The equations describe the elastic potential energy of an ideal spring and the gravitational potential energy of an object-planet system near the planet's surface.
What is the equation for the change in gravitational potential energy for an object near a planet's surface?
The change in gravitational potential energy may be approximated by the equation: $\Delta U_g = mg\Delta y$.
Why is the choice of a zero potential energy level considered arbitrary but useful?
It is a decision made by the observer, and a thoughtful choice can simplify or otherwise assist in the analysis of a problem.
Is potential energy a scalar or a vector quantity?
Potential energy is a scalar quantity.
If you double the displacement ($\Delta x$) of an ideal spring from its equilibrium position, how does its elastic potential energy ($U_s$) change?
The elastic potential energy quadruples, because it is proportional to the square of the displacement, $(\Delta x)^2$.
Define potential energy.
Potential energy is a scalar quantity associated with the position of objects within a system.
State the equation for the elastic potential energy of an ideal spring.
The elastic potential energy of an ideal spring is given by the equation: $U_s = \frac{1}{2}k(\Delta x)^2$.
A system consists of an object of mass 'm' and a planet. What is the change in the system's gravitational potential energy if the object is lifted a vertical height of $\Delta y$?
The change in gravitational potential energy is approximated as $\Delta U_g = mg\Delta y$, where 'g' is the gravitational field.
How is the zero point for potential energy determined in a given system?
The definition of zero potential energy is a decision made by the observer to simplify or assist in analysis.