Energy Facts

Energy Facts


  • Mechanical energy is the sum of the potential and kinetic energy.
  • Units: a = [m/sec2], F = [kg•m/sec2] (newton), work = pe= ke = [kg•m2/sec2] (joule)
  • An ev is an energy unit equal to 1.6 x 10-19 joules
  • Gravitational potential energy increases as height increases.
  • Kinetic energy changes only if velocity changes.
  • Mechanical energy (pe + ke) does not change for a free falling mass or a swinging pendulum. (when ignoring air friction)
  • The units for power are [joules/sec] or the rate of change of energy.