Thermal Energy Unit Test
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)
Potential energy increases, and kinetic energy does not change
potential and kinetic energy both decrease
potential energy decreases as kinetic energy increases
potential energy does not change, and kinetic energy decreases.
Potential energy decreases as kinetic energy increases
The statement that best describes the relationship between a baseball's potential and kinetic energy after it is thrown is: potential energy decreases as kinetic energy increases.
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 refers to the energy an object possesses due to its position or condition. In the case of a baseball being thrown, potential energy can be identified as the ball's stored energy when it is at a certain height or position relative to the ground.
Kinetic energy refers to the energy an object possesses due to its motion. In the case of a baseball being thrown, kinetic energy can be identified as the ball's energy of motion as it travels through the air.
Now, let's consider the options provided:
1. Potential energy increases, and kinetic energy does not change: This statement contradicts our understanding of energy transfer. If potential energy were to increase, it would need to be converted from another form of energy - such as kinetic energy. It is not accurate in this case because the kinetic energy of the ball increases as it is thrown.
2. Potential and kinetic energy both decrease: This statement suggests that both potential and kinetic energy decrease after the ball is thrown. However, this contradicts the principle of conservation of energy, which states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or transformed. Therefore, this statement is also incorrect.
3. Potential energy decreases as kinetic energy increases: This statement aligns with our understanding of energy transfer. As the ball is thrown, potential energy - resulting from its position or height - decreases. Simultaneously, the ball gains kinetic energy, as it is now in motion. This change in energy distribution is accurate and consistent with the principles of energy conservation.
4. Potential energy does not change, and kinetic energy decreases: This statement is not accurate because when the baseball is thrown, its potential energy decreases as it is converted into kinetic energy. If kinetic energy were to decrease, it would need to be transferred back to potential energy. However, in this scenario, the kinetic energy of the ball is not converted back to potential energy.
Therefore, the statement that best describes the relationship between a baseball's potential and kinetic energy after it is thrown is: potential energy decreases as kinetic energy increases.