Another conservation of energy problem

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy in the context of conservation of energy, particularly when a ball is dropped from a height.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the reasoning behind the equivalence of gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy, with some attempting to understand the implications of energy conservation during the motion of the ball.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the conservation of energy principle, while others are questioning the initial assumptions about the equality of potential and kinetic energy. The discussion reflects a mix of understanding and confusion, with no clear consensus reached.

Contextual Notes

There appears to be some misunderstanding regarding the conditions under which gravitational potential energy converts to kinetic energy, as well as the specific definitions of these forms of energy.

physicsman2
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Homework Statement


why is the gravitational potential energy of a ball equal to its kinetic energy


Homework Equations


KE=PE


The Attempt at a Solution


im really not sure, i think its because energy is conserved but i don't know why that is either
 
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Yes, it has to do with the conservation of energy. Think of it this way - If you hold a ball in your hand and drop it, the kinetic energy will equal the gravitational potential energy, because the ball cannot acquire energy from any other source. Gravity is the only thing pulling the ball down - no other force is going to help the ball fall.
 
oh i understand now thanks
 
physicsman2 said:
why is the gravitational potential energy of a ball equal to its kinetic energy

As stated it is not.

The conservation of energy tells you however that the Δ in potential energy will manifest as a Δ in kinetic energy when a ball is released in a gravitational field.
 

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