 |
How do you convert potential energy to kinetic energy? And when would the two values be the same?
How do you do the conversions and how do you know they are the same? For example, if you had a roller coaster with a bunch of points and different potential energies how would I use that information to figure out the kinetic energy?
Thanks!
Answer:
Potential energy is energy waiting to happen.
Kinetic energy is energy in motion.
For example, when you lift a ball into the air, it gains potential.
When you let go, it falls, gaining kinetic energy and losing potential.
Kinetic Energy is = (1/2)(mass)(velocity)^2
Potetial Energy is = (mass)(gravity)(height)
So they would be equal when
(1/2)(mass)(velocity)^2 = (mass)(gravity)(height)
--> when;
Velocity = sqrt(2*gravity*height*)
Energy is generally conserved, so the max, initial potential energy is equal to Point Kinetic energy + Point Potential Energy.
That is;
(mass)(gravity)(initial height) = (1/2)(mass)(velocity)^2 + (mass)(gravity)(2nd height)
You can then solve for the velocity, or kinetic energy, as fitting.
Back
|
Your answer to this question:
|
|
|
Powered by Yahoo! Answers
|
| |
