Question

A ball drops some distance and gains 30 J of kinetic energy. How much gravitational potential energy did the ball start with? Do not ignore the effects of air resistance.

Answer 1

Answer:

The gravitational potential energy of the ball is more than 30 J.

Explanation:

Given that,

Gains kinetic energy = 30 J

We need to calculate the gravitational potential energy

According to law of conservation of energy

If there is no air resistance then the potential energy of the ball fully converted into kinetic energy.

If the air resistance is considered then the potential energy used to do work against air resistance.

$\Delta U\geq \Delta K.E$

According to question,

A ball drops some distance and gains 30 J of kinetic energy and considers air resistance then 30 J of potential energy can be loosed by the ball.

Hence, The gravitational potential energy of the ball is more than 30 J.