A freely falling object eventually stops on reaching the ground. What happenes to its kinetic energy?

The key points regarding what happens to the kinetic energy of a freely falling object when it eventually stops upon reaching the ground:

1. Initial Kinetic Energy: The object gains kinetic energy as it falls due to its motion and the force of gravity acting on it.

2. Transformation upon Impact: When the object reaches the ground and comes to a stop, its kinetic energy is not lost but transformed into other forms of energy.

3. Heat Energy: Some of the object’s kinetic energy is converted into heat energy upon impact due to friction between the object and the surface it lands on.

4. Sound Energy: Part of the object’s kinetic energy is transformed into sound energy upon impact, generating sound waves due to the collision.

5. Deformation or Potential Energy: Depending on the characteristics of the object and the surface it lands on, the kinetic energy might also cause deformation or compression, storing potential energy within the object or the ground.

6. Conclusion: In summary, the kinetic energy of a freely falling object, when it stops upon reaching the ground, is not eliminated but rather converted into different forms of energy such as heat, sound, or potential energy associated with deformation.