Difference Between Kinetic And Potential Energy

Kinetic energy applies in the object or body when it is in motion. Therefore, it is known as energy of motion. Moving car, cycling, flowing river etc. are some examples of kinetic energy. On the other hand, potential energy applies in the object when it is in rest.It is also known as stored energy. Drawn bow, stretched rubber, water in the tank are some examples of potential energy. 

Difference Between Kinetic Energy And Potential Energy

The major dissimilarities or difference between kinetic and potential energy can be highlighted as follows:

1. Introduction

Kinetic Energy: Kind of energy present in the body when it is in motion

Potential Energy: Kind of energy present in the body when it is at rest

2. What Is It ?

Kinetic Energy: It is energy because of motion

Potential Energy: It is stored energy or energy due to position

3. Transfer Of Energy

Kinetic Energy: It is transferable, it means it can be transferred from one body to another body

Potential Energy: It cannot be transferred from one body to another body.

4. Sl Unit

Kinetic Energy: Standard unit of kinetic energy is Joule (J)

Potential Energy: Standard unit of potential energy is also Joule.

5. Measurement

Kinetic Energy: It is measured on the basis of velocity and mass of the body

Potential Energy: It is measured on the basis of height and mass of the body

6. Change

Kinetic Energy: It changes according to the change in speed of object

Potential Energy: it changes with the change in position of the object 

7. Formula

Kinetic Energy: KE = 1/2 mv²

Where, m = mass and v = velocity

Potential Energy: PE =  mgh

Where, m = mass, g = gravity and h = height

8. Symbol 

Kinetic Energy: Symbol 'K' is used to denote kinetic energy

Potential Energy: Symbol 'U' is used to denote potential energy

9. Examples

Kinetic Energy: Moving bus, flowing river, earth's rotation around the sun etc. are some examples of kinetic energy

Potential Energy: Stretched rubber band, branch of tree, water in a drum or tank etc. are some examples of potential energy.

Kinetic Energy Vs Potential Energy (Comparison Chart)

Basis	Kinetic Energy	Potential Energy
It Is	Energy because of motion	Stored energy
Transferable	Yes	No
Standard Unit	Joule (J)	Joule (J)
Measurement	On the basis of velocity and mass	On the basis of height and mass
Change according to	Change in speed	Change in position
Formula	1/2 mv²	mgh
Symbol	'K'	'U'
Examples	moving car, river etc.	Water in a tank, branch of tree etc.

Distinction Between Kinetic Energy And Potential Energy In Short

- Type of energy possessed by a body because of motion is called kinetic energy. On the contrary, type of energy stored in the body at rest rest is called potential energy.

- Kinetic energy can be transferred from one to another body. But potential energy cannot be transferred.

- Kinetic energy changes as per the change of speed. Potential energy changes with the position of the body.

- Kinetic energy is relative in nature. But potential energy is non-relative.