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3.3 Potential Energy

Part of Work, Energy, and Power in AP® Physics 1: Algebra-Based. Read the opening section, then create a free account for the full interactive lesson, practice, and progress tracking.

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Potential Energy

In a system of 2 or more objects, the system can have potential energy. Potential energy is the stored energy in a position or configuration. Potential energy arises from when objects in a system interact with each other through conservative forces. Potential energy is a scalar, measured in Joules (J), and represented with the variable U.

At any position in the system, the observer can define that position as having 0 potential energy. This assumption is arbitrary as what is physically happening in the system will not change. However, the calculations in the system will change.

In this unit

5 lessons

  1. 3.1What is Energy?Preview lesson
  2. 3.2WorkPreview lesson
  3. 3.3Potential EnergyThis lesson
  4. 3.4Conservation of EnergyPreview lesson
  5. 3.5PowerPreview lesson

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