Which statement best describes the relationship between a baseball’s potential and kinetic energy after it is thrown? (assume the ball travels in a straight line)(1 point)
Responses
Potential energy increases, and kinetic energy does not change.
Potential energy increases, and kinetic energy does not change.
Potential energy decreases as kinetic energy increases.
Potential energy decreases as kinetic energy increases.
Potential energy does not change, and kinetic energy decreases.
Potential energy does not change, and kinetic energy decreases.
Potential and kinetic energy both decrease.
Potential energy does not change, and kinetic energy increases.
The correct answer is:
Potential energy decreases as kinetic energy increases.
In order to determine the relationship between a baseball's potential and kinetic energy after it is thrown, we need to understand the concepts of potential and kinetic energy.
Potential energy is the energy that an object possesses due to its position or state. It is the stored energy that can be converted into various forms, such as kinetic energy. In the case of a baseball, the potential energy would be at its maximum when it is held high above the ground, just before it is thrown.
Kinetic energy, on the other hand, is the energy associated with the motion of an object. It depends on the mass of the object and its velocity. In the case of a baseball, the kinetic energy would be at its maximum when the ball is traveling at its highest velocity.
Now, when a baseball is thrown, it undergoes a conversion of potential energy to kinetic energy. As the ball is released and begins to move, its potential energy decreases because it is no longer at a high position. At the same time, its kinetic energy increases because it now possesses motion and speed. Therefore, the correct statement would be:
Potential energy decreases as kinetic energy increases.