Which of the following terms is used for stored energy that depends upon the relative position of various parts of a system?

The correct answer is Potential energy.

Key Points

• Potential Energy is stored energy that depends upon the relative position of various parts of a system.
• Spring has more potential energy when it is compressed or stretched.
• A steel ball has more potential energy raised above the ground than it has after falling to Earth.
• The term potential energy was introduced by the 19th-century Scottish engineer and physicist William Rankine, although it has links to Greek philosopher Aristotle's concept of potentiality.
  • ​ P.E. = mgh 

Additional Information

• Mechanical energy is defined as the sum of kinetic energy and potential energy in an object that is utilized to do work.
  • Mechanical energy is a combination of kinetic energy and potential energy.
  • Mechanical energy is the form of energy that is related to the position and motion of an object.
  • Kinetic energy: The energy possessed by an object because of its motion. 
    • K. E. = (½) mv2
• Kinetic Energy:
  • The energy possessed by a body due to its motion.
  • The higher the velocity, the more is kinetic energy.
  • Formula: \(K = { {1} \over 2}\times m \times v^2\)