SUMMARY
A salmon swimming straight upward at a speed of 5 m/s can be analyzed using the principles of kinetic and potential energy. The kinetic energy at the moment it breaks through the water is given by E = 1/2 * mv², while the potential energy at its highest point is E = mgh. By equating these two forms of energy, one can derive the maximum height the salmon can reach above the water. The correct approach involves setting the kinetic energy equal to the potential energy to solve for height (h).
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of kinetic and potential energy principles
- Familiarity with the equation E = 1/2 * mv²
- Knowledge of the gravitational potential energy equation E = mgh
- Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
- Research the conservation of energy in physics
- Learn how to derive height from energy equations
- Explore real-world applications of kinetic and potential energy
- Study projectile motion and its equations
USEFUL FOR
Students studying physics, educators teaching energy concepts, and anyone interested in the mechanics of animal movement.
