Large Mass But Low Kinetic Energy

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on examples of large mass bodies with low kinetic energy, highlighting that kinetic energy depends significantly on velocity. A fully loaded truck moving slowly in traffic is cited as a practical example, as is a sleeping elephant, though the latter is considered an extreme case. Additionally, a tectonic plate is mentioned, illustrating that even massive objects can have low kinetic energy when moving at very slow speeds. The conversation emphasizes that controlling velocity is key to achieving low kinetic energy despite high mass. Overall, the examples provided effectively demonstrate the concept of large mass with low kinetic energy.
PrakashPrasad
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Can anyone please let me know an example where a body has large mass but low Kinetic Energy? Please provide some reasons for same.
 
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What exactly do you need it for? Then I may be able to help you better.
 
SDewan said:
What exactly do you need it for? Then I may be able to help you better.
I am in need of an example of a body having large mass but low kinetic energy? Please let me some reason for same - is an elephant moving uphill an example of same
 
Going by the definition, KE=1/2*m*v^2
Just consider a fully loaded truck moving slowly in a traffic jam.
This meets the requirement for a heavy body and low KE. The only thing which is in our control is the velocity. So have as low a velocity as possible.
 
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PrakashPrasad said:
I am in need of an example of a body having large mass but low kinetic energy? Please let me some reason for same - is an elephant moving uphill an example of same
How about a sleeping elephant?
 
A.T. said:
How about a sleeping elephant?
This case, though meets thecriteria, but is an extreme case.
 
PrakashPrasad said:
Can anyone please let me know an example where a body has large mass but low Kinetic Energy? Please provide some reasons for same.
How about a tectonic plate. 40E21 kg at 1.6E-9 m/s gives a KE of about 50 kJ, which is only enough energy to power a typical incandescent light bulb for about 20 minutes.
 
Dale said:
How about a tectonic plate.
Or how about any massive object in the rest frame of that object?
 
Yes I thought about that too, which would make it obviously 0.
 

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