Points to Remember:
- Kinetic energy is the energy of motion.
- Potential energy is stored energy due to position or configuration.
- Gravitational potential energy is a specific type of potential energy related to an object’s position in a gravitational field.
Introduction:
This question tests understanding of fundamental concepts in physics, specifically concerning energy. Energy exists in various forms, and the type of energy an object possesses depends on its state and interaction with its environment. The question asks us to identify the type of energy a stone resting on a table possesses. We need to consider whether the stone is in motion and its position relative to the Earth’s gravitational field.
Body:
1. Kinetic Energy: Kinetic energy is defined as the energy an object possesses due to its motion. The formula for kinetic energy is KE = 1/2mv², where ‘m’ is the mass and ‘v’ is the velocity. Since the stone is at rest on the table, its velocity (v) is zero. Therefore, its kinetic energy is also zero.
2. Gravitational Potential Energy: Gravitational potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position in a gravitational field. The higher an object is above a reference point (usually the ground), the greater its gravitational potential energy. The formula is PE = mgh, where ‘m’ is the mass, ‘g’ is the acceleration due to gravity, and ‘h’ is the height above the reference point. In this case, the stone possesses gravitational potential energy because it is positioned above the ground. The reference point could be the floor, or even the surface of the Earth. The height ‘h’ is the distance from the table surface to the reference point.
3. Potential Energy (General): Gravitational potential energy is a type of potential energy. Potential energy, in general, refers to stored energy that can be converted into other forms of energy (like kinetic energy). The stone’s potential energy is specifically gravitational potential energy in this scenario.
4. None of these: This option is incorrect because the stone clearly possesses gravitational potential energy.
Conclusion:
The stone resting on the table does not possess kinetic energy because it is not in motion. However, it does possess gravitational potential energy due to its position relative to the Earth’s gravitational field. Therefore, the correct answer is (C) Potential Energy. While (B) Gravitational Energy is also a correct description of the energy the stone possesses, (C) is a more encompassing and accurate answer given the options provided. Understanding the different forms of energy and their interconversion is crucial in various fields of science and engineering. A strong foundation in these concepts is essential for further studies in physics and related disciplines.
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