Kinetic Energy v. Time Graph for Freefall

In summary, the conversation was about a question on a summative test where the task was to graph the kinetic energy over time of a rock being dropped from a bridge. The equation used was 1/2mv^2 and there was a disagreement between friends on whether the graph should be exponential or linear. The correct answer is that the graph is exponential because velocity increases and is squared in the kinetic energy formula.
  • #1
Asleky
7
0

Homework Statement



Pretty simple question, just checking for confirmation. It was a small question at the beginning of a summative test, a rock was dropped off of a bridge and we were asked to graph the kinetic energy over time.

Homework Equations



1/2mv^2.

The Attempt at a Solution


I started from 0 and went upwards (exponentially). Two friends were telling me I was wrong. :( Who was right? They say it's a linear line, but I disagreed because of the v^2. Thanks for any insight.
 
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  • #2
Just think of the relationship of v with t for free fall.
 
  • #3
Asleky said:
exponentially
Do you mean exponentially? You are right that it is not linear.
 
  • #4
Let'sthink said:
Just think of the relationship of v with t for free fall.
Yeah, velocity increases. Then it is squared in the formula for kinetic energy.
 
  • #5
Asleky said:
Yeah, velocity increases. Then it is squared in the formula for kinetic energy.
Right, so what adjective will describe the curve?
 
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1. What is a Kinetic Energy v. Time Graph for Freefall?

A Kinetic Energy v. Time Graph for Freefall is a visual representation of the relationship between an object's kinetic energy and time as it falls freely under the influence of gravity.

2. How is Kinetic Energy calculated in a Kinetic Energy v. Time Graph for Freefall?

Kinetic Energy is calculated by multiplying the mass of the object by its velocity squared (KE = 1/2 * m * v^2).

3. What does the slope of a Kinetic Energy v. Time Graph for Freefall indicate?

The slope of a Kinetic Energy v. Time Graph for Freefall represents the rate of change of kinetic energy over time. A steeper slope indicates a faster change in kinetic energy.

4. How does the shape of the graph change as an object falls freely?

As an object falls freely, the kinetic energy gradually increases as the velocity increases. This is reflected in the graph as a positive slope. Once the object reaches its terminal velocity, the kinetic energy remains constant and the graph becomes a horizontal line.

5. Can a Kinetic Energy v. Time Graph for Freefall be used to determine the distance an object has fallen?

No, a Kinetic Energy v. Time Graph for Freefall does not provide information about the distance an object has fallen. It only shows the relationship between kinetic energy and time. To determine the distance, one would need to also consider the acceleration and initial velocity of the object.

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