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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is an example of gravitational potential energy rather than kinetic energy?
A
A cyclist pedaling on a flat road
B
A rock resting at the edge of a cliff
C
A car driving down a hill
D
A ball rolling on the ground
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the difference between kinetic energy and gravitational potential energy. Kinetic energy is the energy of motion, while gravitational potential energy is the energy stored due to an object's position in a gravitational field.
Identify the key characteristics of gravitational potential energy. It depends on the object's mass, the height above a reference point, and the gravitational acceleration. The formula is: , where is mass, is gravitational acceleration, and is height.
Analyze each option: A cyclist pedaling on a flat road involves motion, indicating kinetic energy. A car driving down a hill also involves motion, indicating kinetic energy. A ball rolling on the ground is in motion, indicating kinetic energy.
Consider the option of a rock resting at the edge of a cliff. The rock is not in motion, but it is positioned at a height above the ground, which means it has gravitational potential energy.
Conclude that the rock resting at the edge of a cliff is an example of gravitational potential energy, as it is not moving but has energy due to its position in a gravitational field.