Science Common Sense

239 - What is the difference between potential and kinetic energy in a roller coaster?

Imagine you're on a roller coaster.

  1. Potential energy: When the roller coaster is at the top of a big hill, it has a lot of potential energy. This energy is stored and not being used yet. It's like having money in a bank account - you have it, but you're not spending it.

  2. Kinetic energy: As the roller coaster rolls down the hill and starts moving fast, its potential energy turns into kinetic energy. This energy is being used to make the roller coaster move. It's like spending the money you saved - you're using it to have fun and experience the thrill of the ride!

So, in simple words: Potential energy is the stored energy (at the top) and Kinetic energy is the energy in action (while moving).

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