Just before the object reaches the ground, the height (h) is zero, so the potential energy is zero. At this point, the velocity (v) is at its maximum, so the kinetic energy is at its highest. The total energy at this point is still equal to the initial potential energy, mgh, indicating energy conservation.
What are the potential and kinetic energies of the object just before it reaches the ground?
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Just before an object reaches the ground, its gravitational potential energy is nearly zero because its height is minimal. Conversely, its kinetic energy is at its maximum due to the object’s maximum velocity. The total mechanical energy, initially all potential energy, has entirely converted into kinetic energy, assuming negligible air resistance.