Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Conservation of Energy
The principle of conservation of energy states that the total energy in a closed system remains constant. In the context of the glider, the potential energy at its initial height converts to kinetic energy as it descends. This relationship allows us to calculate the theoretical landing speed by equating the potential energy at 3200 m to the kinetic energy just before landing, assuming no energy is lost to air resistance.
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Kinetic Energy
Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion, calculated using the formula KE = 1/2 mv², where m is mass and v is velocity. For the glider, its kinetic energy at landing can be determined by its speed just before impact. Understanding kinetic energy is crucial for determining how speed changes as the glider descends and accelerates towards the ground.
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Potential Energy
Potential energy is the stored energy of an object due to its position in a gravitational field, calculated using the formula PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is height. In this scenario, the glider's initial potential energy at 3200 m will be converted into kinetic energy as it descends, allowing us to find the speed it would have landed at without air resistance.
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