What is the woman's kinetic energy when her potential energy is 2500 joules? Explain the relationship between potential energy and kinetic energy in your answer.



Answer :

To determine the woman's kinetic energy when her potential energy is 2500 joules, we need to consider the conservation of mechanical energy. Mechanical energy is the sum of potential energy (PE) and kinetic energy (KE). If we assume the total mechanical energy of the system is entirely used as potential energy, we can set up the following scenario:

1. Total Mechanical Energy:
Given that the woman’s potential energy is 2500 joules and considering no other form of energy is present, we assume that the total mechanical energy is equal to the potential energy. Hence, the total mechanical energy in the system is 2500 joules.

2. Kinetic Energy Calculation:
Since the total mechanical energy (ME) is the sum of potential and kinetic energies, we have:
[tex]\[ ME = PE + KE \][/tex]
Substituting the given value of potential energy:
[tex]\[ 2500 \text{ joules} = 2500 \text{ joules} + KE \][/tex]
To isolate KE, we rearrange the equation:
[tex]\[ KE = ME - PE \][/tex]
Substituting for ME and PE:
[tex]\[ KE = 2500 \text{ joules} - 2500 \text{ joules} \][/tex]
[tex]\[ KE = 0 \text{ joules} \][/tex]

Therefore, the woman's kinetic energy is 0 joules.