Potential Energy Clarification

In summary, the conversation discusses the potential and kinetic energy of a system consisting of a ball and the Earth. The potential energy of the system increases as the ball is lifted from a lower height to a higher height, while the kinetic energy decreases due to the constant velocity. The Earth does negative work on the system, but neither the ball nor the person lifting it does negative work. Therefore, statement 1 is true and statement 2 is false.
  • #1
MyNewPony
31
0
You lift a ball at constant velocity from a height hi to a greater height hf . Considering the ball and the Earth together as the system, which of the following statements is true?

1. The potential energy of the system increases.
2. The kinetic energy of the system decreases.
3. The Earth does negative work on the system.
4. You do negative work on the system.
5. The source energy of the ball increases.
6. Two of the above.
7. None of the above.

Am I right in thinking that neither 1 nor 2 are correct because the question takes into account BOTH the Earth and the ball? They would only be correct if the system was merely the ball, right?
 
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  • #2
I believe you are right there.
 
  • #3
MyNewPony said:
Am I right in thinking that neither 1 nor 2 are correct because the question takes into account BOTH the Earth and the ball? They would only be correct if the system was merely the ball, right?
No, gravitational potential energy is a joint property of Earth and ball (since gravity is an interaction between them). So #1 is correct.
 

FAQ: Potential Energy Clarification

What is potential energy?

Potential energy is the energy that an object has due to its position or configuration in a system. It is stored energy that can be converted into other forms, such as kinetic energy, when the object is in motion.

What are the different types of potential energy?

There are several types of potential energy, including gravitational potential energy, elastic potential energy, chemical potential energy, and nuclear potential energy. Each type is associated with a specific force or interaction.

How is potential energy calculated?

The formula for calculating potential energy varies depending on the type of potential energy. For example, gravitational potential energy is calculated by multiplying the object's mass by the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s^2) and its height above the ground. Elastic potential energy is calculated by multiplying the spring constant by the distance the spring is stretched or compressed.

What is the difference between potential energy and kinetic energy?

Potential energy is the energy that an object possesses due to its position or configuration, while kinetic energy is the energy that an object possesses due to its motion. Potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy and vice versa.

How is potential energy related to work?

Work is the transfer of energy from one object to another. When an external force is applied to an object, work is done on that object, which can change its potential energy. For example, when lifting an object, work is done to increase its gravitational potential energy.

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