Potential Energy
The stored energy an object possesses due to its relative position in a conservative force field or its structural deformation.
Governing formula
PE_grav = m g h, PE_elastic = ½ k x²
SI unit
J
In depth
Potential energy is associated with conservative forces (gravity, electrostatic, spring elastic forces) where work done depends only on initial and final positions, independent of path.
Examples in the real world
A boulder perched at the edge of a cliff possesses gravitational potential energy, whereas a compressed archer's bow holds elastic potential energy.