Define potential energy.

Potential energy is the energy possessed by an object due to its position or configuration.

Potential energy is a form of energy that is stored in an object due to its position or configuration. It is a scalar quantity and is measured in joules (J). The amount of potential energy an object has depends on its mass, height, and the strength of the gravitational field it is in. The formula for gravitational potential energy is given by:

PE = mgh

Where PE is the potential energy, m is the mass of the object, g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.81 m/s^2), and h is the height of the object above a reference point. The reference point is usually taken to be the ground level.

Another form of potential energy is elastic potential energy, which is the energy stored in an object when it is stretched or compressed. The formula for elastic potential energy is given by:

PE = 0.5kx^2

Where PE is the potential energy, k is the spring constant of the object, and x is the displacement from the equilibrium position.

Potential energy can be converted into other forms of energy, such as kinetic energy, which is the energy of motion. When an object falls from a height, its potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as it gains speed. The formula for kinetic energy is given by:

KE = 0.5mv^2

Where KE is the kinetic energy, m is the mass of the object, and v is its velocity.

In conclusion, potential energy is the energy possessed by an object due to its position or configuration, and it can be calculated using the formulas for gravitational potential energy and elastic potential energy. It is an important concept in physics and is used to explain many phenomena in the natural world.