Before the coyote begins to fall, what can you tell about the potential and kinetic energy of the roadrunner vs the coyote?
Select all correct responses
a
Ignoring air resistance and assuming they have the same mass, the kinetic energy of both is equal right before impact with the ground.
b
The potential energy of the one with the most mass is greater than the other.
c
Weight is the same for both, regardless of mass.
d
The potential energy of both are equal.
b. The potential energy of the one with the most mass is greater than the other.
c. Weight is the same for both, regardless of mass.
d. The potential energy of both are equal.
Explanation:
Before the coyote begins to fall, both the roadrunner and the coyote have potential energy due to their position above the ground. The potential energy is directly proportional to the mass and height of the object. Therefore, the potential energy of the one with the most mass (the coyote) is greater than the other (the roadrunner).
Weight is the force exerted on an object due to gravity and is directly proportional to the mass of the object. Therefore, the weight of both the roadrunner and the coyote is the same, regardless of their mass.
Assuming they have the same mass, the kinetic energy of both is equal right before impact with the ground because they both fall from the same height and have the same gravitational potential energy, which is converted into kinetic energy as they fall.