Which of the following statements best describes potential energy?

• A. Potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or configuration.
• B. Potential energy cannot be converted into other forms of energy.
• C. Potential energy is always zero for objects at rest.
• D. Potential energy is the energy of motion, given by $0.5\times m\times v^2$.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or configuration within a force field, such as gravitational or elastic fields.
2. Recognize that potential energy can be converted into other forms of energy, such as kinetic energy, when the object's position or configuration changes.
3. Note that potential energy is not necessarily zero for objects at rest; it depends on the object's position relative to a reference point.
4. Distinguish potential energy from kinetic energy, which is the energy of motion and is given by the formula \$0.5 \times m \times v^{2}\(, where \)m\( is mass and \)v$ is velocity.
5. Conclude that the best description of potential energy is that it is the energy stored due to position or configuration, not the energy of motion or something that cannot be converted.