In general potential energy is described as the form of energy stored in an object’s body. It helps in determining the objects’ state of motion or rest. 

However, it is present in different forms; hence its definition varies. We will know potential energy forms: gravitational potential energy, elastic potential energy, electric potential energy, and spring potential energy.  

Therefore the potential energy formula will depend on the form of potential energy we consider. We use the gravitational potential energy formula, i.e., PE = mgh. Here, h is the height in metres, m is the mass in kilograms, and g is the acceleration due to gravity. 

Let us learn more about the topic. 

Explain the different types of potential energy

To determine objects’ potential energy. We consider its position when it is at rest instead of in motion. Here are the four types of potential energy: 

• Elastic or spring potential energy: 

Elastic potential energy is when a body stores energy through its plastic properties. On the other hand, spring potential energy is elastic potential energy only but in a modified form that occurs in spring. 

When spring is compressed and released freely, it generates elastic potential energy within it. However, when the spring shows some movements, the stored potential energy converts into kinetic energy.

Some other examples: 

• A tightly coiled spring.
• A pulled back bow of the archer with the string. 
• A stretched rubber band.
• Soccer balls in the position of rest before getting kicked by players.
• The diving board before someone dives.

Gravitational potential energy: 

It is the energy of the body due to the effect of gravitational force on it. 

When you hold a ball upwards vertically straight from the ground, the ball generates potential energy due to the gravitational force being applied to it. Here, h is the height in metres measured from the ground. 

Other examples include: 

• A raise in the weight.
• Water stored in the dam.
• A parked car at the hilltop.
• Yoyo, before being released.
• The water of the river at the waterfall’s top.
• A book kept on the table before falling.
• Child sitting at the top of the slide 
• A ripened fruit before falling.

Electric potential energy

It generates when the electrons’ arrangements of the body exert some type of energy on it. 

When you see a light switch that’s off, you can’t see the charge waiting to flow through the wires in their potential energy. 

Other examples: 

• When the incandescent light bulb is turned off.
• The headlights of the car before they get turned on.
• A non-working radio tower.
• A turned-off cell phone.
• Socal cells during night time.
• A turned-off black light.
• A TV before you turn it on.

What is the formula for potential energy?

Here are different formulas depending on the type of potential energy: 

Elastic/Spring potential energy formula: 

U= ½ k∆x

Here U stands for elastic potential energy.

∆x = changes in the position of the object. 

K = spring constant. 

Gravitational potential energy formula: 

 PE = mgh

Here,  h is the height in metres at which a city object is placed above the ground.

m is the mass in kilograms of the object.

g is the acceleration due to gravity that the object is experiencing. 

The formula for electric potential energy: 

UE= kq1q2/r 

Here, 

UE = electric potential energy

k = coulomb’s constant

q1 & q2 = Two separate points’ charges in the circuit. 

r = Distance between the separation points.

General Incidents of potential energy converting into kinetic energy

• When you stretch an elastic band to tie something, it generates potential energy. And when you release it, the potential energy converts into kinetic energy that includes velocity. Here we observed that potential energy takes the form of kinetic energy without any energy loss in between. 

• When the flowing river water is stored within the dam to generate hydroelectricity, the water develops potential energy. But when the river can flow freely, it generates kinetic energy. 

• A loaded gun can also be potential energy converted into kinetic energy. It is because it follows the same principle of bow and arrow. When the gun is kept in a stationary position, it stores potential energy. But when someone shoots through it, the same energy is converted into kinetic energy. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, potential energy can be termed the form of energy that a body possesses at the rest position. We looked into different potential energy forms and learned how their formulas differ from one another. We have mentioned plenty of examples for each form of potential energy that you can easily observe in your day-to-day life. Pay special attention to all types of potential energy formulas, especially gravitational potential energy. Now, check out some frequently asked questions regarding the topic below.