Which statement best describes the difference between $\mathrm{potential energy}$ and $\mathrm{kinetic energy}$?

• A. Both $\mathrm{potential energy}$ and $\mathrm{kinetic energy}$ are only present when an object is moving.
• B. $\mathrm{Potential energy}$ is the energy of motion, while $\mathrm{kinetic energy}$ is stored energy due to an object's position.
• C. $\mathrm{Potential energy}$ and $\mathrm{kinetic energy}$ are always equal for any object.
• D. $\mathrm{Potential energy}$ is stored energy due to an object's position or configuration, while $\mathrm{kinetic energy}$ is the energy of motion.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or configuration relative to other objects. For example, an object held at a height has gravitational potential energy because of its elevated position.
2. Recognize that kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses because of its motion. Any object moving with velocity has kinetic energy proportional to its mass and the square of its speed.
3. Recall the formula for kinetic energy: \( KE = \frac{1}{2} m v^2 \), where \(m\) is mass and \(v\) is velocity.
4. Recall the formula for gravitational potential energy near Earth's surface: \( PE = m g h \), where \(m\) is mass, \(g\) is acceleration due to gravity, and \(h\) is height above a reference point.
5. Conclude that potential energy is stored energy due to position or configuration, while kinetic energy is energy due to motion, making the correct description: 'Potential energy is stored energy due to an object's position or configuration, while kinetic energy is the energy of motion.'