The decrease in the potential energy of a ball of mass 20 kg, which falls from a height 50 cm is
Potential energy is the stored energy in an object due to its position or configuration. It is commonly associated with gravitational forces, where an object’s height determines its potential energy. For example, a book on a shelf has potential energy because of its elevated position. When released, this energy converts to kinetic energy, demonstrating the principle of energy conservation in mechanics.
Class 11 Physics Chapter 5 focuses on the concepts of work, energy and power. It covers definitions and principles, the relationship between work and energy, conservation of energy and calculations involving mechanical advantage. Understanding these concepts is essential for analyzing physical systems and solving problems related to energy transformations.
To determine the potential energy loss of a 20 kg ball dropped from 50 cm height, we shall use the potential energy formula:
Potential Energy = mass × gravitational acceleration × height
Mass (m) = 20 kg
Height (h) = 50 cm = 0.5 m
Gravitational acceleration (g) ≈ 9.8 m/s²
Putting all these values into the formula,
Potential Energy = 20 kg × 9.8 m/s² × 0.5 m
Potential Energy = 20 kg × 4.9 m²/s²
Potential Energy = 98 J
This implies that the potential energy of the ball has decreased by 98 J.
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