Why does a moving object gain energy?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of kinetic energy and the conditions under which an object is said to gain kinetic energy. Participants are exploring the implications of an object's motion and the definitions related to energy changes, particularly in the context of an object starting from rest.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the phrasing of the hint regarding kinetic energy gain, particularly whether it implies that an object in motion always gains energy or if it is dependent on changes in velocity. There are discussions about the conditions under which kinetic energy increases and the interpretation of the original statement.

Discussion Status

The conversation is active, with various interpretations being explored. Some participants are providing clarifications on the definitions of kinetic energy and the conditions for its change, while others are questioning the grammatical clarity of the original statement. There is no explicit consensus yet, but productive dialogue is ongoing.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential issues with the translation or grammar of the original hint, suggesting that it may have led to confusion in understanding the concept of kinetic energy. There is also mention of the source of the problem being Khan Academy, which raises questions about the reliability of the phrasing used.

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Homework Statement


One of the hints to this problem says "An object in motion always gains kinetic energy, so the change in energy of an object starting from rest would be P = m(v^2) / (2t)

I understand that a moving object has kinetic energy, but why did they say it gains kinetic energy (or maybe I am not understanding grammar?) thanks for any help

Homework Equations


KE = (1/2) m(v^2)

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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An object can gain KE only if m or v or both increase. If m = constant and v = constant, then KE must be a constant.
 
... the change in energy of an object starting from rest would be P = m(v^2) / (2t)

That's not quite correct. P in that equation appears to stand for Power which is the rate of change of KE.

If the object starts at rest and some time t later has velocity V then the change in KE is...

∆KE= m(v^2)/2
 
They say it gains KE because it started from rest KE=0 and ended up with velocity V and KE=m(v^2)/2.
 
An object in motion always gains kinetic energy

That's not true. An object moving with constant velocity does not gain KE. It's KE stays the same. Objects only gain KE if the velocity increases.

Are you translating this from another language?
 
thats exactly what I've been thinking for a number of questions actually.. the grammar is messing up the questions so i think it must be translated .. but its on Khan academy , kinda surprised me because I thought Khan is a pretty serious site now..
 
ppppparker said:
this problem says "An object in motion always gains kinetic energy,
Perhaps it meant to say, "An object set in motion always ..."
 
Could you post a link? I can't find that sentence in the likely sections I've looked through.
 

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