Multiple Choice
How are potential energy and kinetic energy related in a closed system?
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9. Work & Energy
Intro to Energy & Kinetic Energy
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How are kinetic energy and potential energy different?
A
Kinetic energy is the energy of motion, while potential energy is the energy stored due to an object's position or configuration.
B
Kinetic energy is always greater than potential energy in any system.
C
Kinetic energy depends on the height of an object, while potential energy depends on its speed.
D
Potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy, but kinetic energy cannot be converted into potential energy.
Verified step by step guidance1
Kinetic energy and potential energy are two fundamental forms of energy in physics. Let's start by defining each: Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion, while potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or configuration.
To understand the difference, consider the formula for kinetic energy: \( KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2 \), where \( m \) is the mass of the object and \( v \) is its velocity. This shows that kinetic energy depends on the mass and speed of the object.
On the other hand, potential energy, particularly gravitational potential energy, is given by the formula \( PE = mgh \), where \( m \) is the mass, \( g \) is the acceleration due to gravity, and \( h \) is the height above a reference point. This indicates that potential energy depends on the object's position relative to a reference point.
A key concept is the conservation of energy, which states that energy can be transformed from one form to another but cannot be created or destroyed. In many systems, potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy and vice versa. For example, a ball held at a height has potential energy, which converts to kinetic energy as it falls.
It's important to note that the statement 'Kinetic energy is always greater than potential energy in any system' is incorrect. The relative amounts of kinetic and potential energy depend on the specific conditions of the system, such as the object's speed and height.
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