Answer:
Good question to ask in physics, sir maam
Answer:
2.5 m/s
Explanation:
Mechanical energy is the sum of the potential and kinetic energy.
E = PE + KE
E = mgh + ½mv²
172.1 J = (7.26 kg) (9.8 m/s²) (2.1 m) + ½ (7.26 kg) v²
v = 2.5 m/s
Odd though it seems at first, gravity is pulling the cat down while the floor is pushing the cat up - in equal amounts. Forces are absolutely acting on the cat but they balance - so there is no net force.
