What forms the total mechanical energy of an object?

The total mechanical energy of an object is defined as the sum of its potential energy and kinetic energy. Potential energy is the energy stored within an object due to its position or configuration, while kinetic energy is the energy of motion. When analyzing the mechanical energy, both forms of energy must be considered because they provide a complete picture of how energy is stored and utilized in a physical system.

For example, when an object is at a height, it has gravitational potential energy. As it falls, this potential energy converts into kinetic energy, illustrating the interchange between these two forms of energy while keeping the total mechanical energy constant in the absence of external work or forces like friction. This principle is foundational in understanding energy conservation in physics.

Thus, recognizing that mechanical energy encompasses both potential energy and kinetic energy leads to a comprehensive understanding of energy dynamics, which is why the correct formulation for total mechanical energy is the sum of these two forms.