Q. 3.23 - An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

Question

Indicate whether each of the following statements describes potential or kinetic energy?

a. water at the lop of a waterfall

b. kicking a ball

c. the energy in a lamp of coal

d. a skier at the top of a hill

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

a.  Water at the lop of a waterfall - Potential Energy

b.  Kicking a ball - Kinetic Energy

c.  The energy in a lamp of coal - Potential Energy

d.  A skier at the top of a hill - Potential Energy

Step 1: Given information (a)

(a) Potential or Kinetic energy of water at the lop of a waterfall

Step 2: Explanation (a)

(a) Water at the highest of a water fall describes P.E. 

Step 3: Given Information (b)

(b) Potential or Kinetic energy of kicking a ball 

Step 4: Explanation (b)

(b) Kicking a ball describes K.E.

Step 5: Given Information (c)

(c) Potential or Kinetic energy of the energy in a lamp of coal 

Step 6: Explanation (c)

(c) The energy during a lump of coal is P.E.

Step 7: Given Information (d)

(d) Potential or Kinetic energy of a skier at the top of a hill 

Step 8: Explanation (d)

(d) Skier at the highest of a hill describes P.E..