SUMMARY
A rock with a mass of 0.2 kg dropped from a height of 20 meters strikes the ground at a velocity of 19.8 m/s. The calculations utilized the equations for kinetic energy (KE) and potential energy (PE), specifically KE = 1/2mv² and PE = mgh. The solution was confirmed as correct, with an emphasis on simplifying the problem by canceling mass (m) before substituting numerical values. This approach streamlines the calculation process and minimizes arithmetic errors.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of kinetic energy (KE) and potential energy (PE) equations
- Basic knowledge of gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s²)
- Ability to manipulate algebraic equations
- Familiarity with units of measurement in physics
NEXT STEPS
- Study the conservation of energy principles in physics
- Learn about free fall and its implications in different gravitational fields
- Explore the concept of air resistance and its effect on falling objects
- Investigate the relationship between mass and acceleration in Newton's laws
USEFUL FOR
Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of motion and energy conservation.