A micrometeor has a mass of 0.005 grams. When it enters Earth's atmosphere, it travels at 21,000 meters per second. What is its kinetic energy when it enters Earth's atmosphere?
(1 point)
A) 0.0525 J
B) 1,102,500 г
C) 2,205 J
D) 1,102.5 J
The kinetic energy of an object can be calculated using the equation:
Kinetic energy = 1/2 * mass * velocity^2
Plugging in the given values:
Mass = 0.005 grams = 0.005/1000 = 0.000005 kg
Velocity = 21,000 meters per second
Kinetic energy = 1/2 * 0.000005 kg * (21,000 m/s)^2
= 1/2 * 0.000005 kg * 441,000,000 m^2/s^2
= 0.000005 * 441,000,000
= 2,205 J
Therefore, the kinetic energy of the micrometeor when it enters Earth's atmosphere is 2,205 J. The correct answer is C) 2,205 J.