The work-energy theorem states that a force acting on a particle as it moves over a ______ changes the ______ energy of the particle.
A)distance / potential
B)distance / kinetic
C)vertical displacement / potential
D)none of the above
B) Distance / Kinetic
To determine the correct answer, let's break down the work-energy theorem and understand its components.
The work-energy theorem states that the work done on an object by the net force acting on it is equal to the change in its kinetic energy. In other words, when a force is applied to a particle, causing it to move, the work done by that force will result in a change in the particle's kinetic energy.
Now, let's analyze the given options:
A) Distance / Potential: This option suggests that the change in potential energy is caused by the force. However, the work-energy theorem specifically states that the change is in kinetic energy, not potential energy, so option A can be eliminated.
B) Distance / Kinetic: This option aligns with the work-energy theorem. The change in kinetic energy, resulting from the work done by the force, is indeed related to the distance the particle moves. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.
C) Vertical displacement / Potential: Similar to option A, this option implies a change in potential energy due to vertical displacement. However, the work-energy theorem relates to changes in kinetic energy resulting from work done by a force, so option C can also be ruled out.
D) None of the above: Since option B (distance/kinetic) correctly represents the work-energy theorem, we can conclude that the correct answer is not "none of the above."
Therefore, the correct answer is B) Distance / Kinetic.