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Ch 09: Work and Kinetic Energy
Chapter 9, Problem 9

A ball shot straight up with kinetic energy K₀ reaches height h. What height will it reach if the initial kinetic energy is doubled?

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Identify the relationship between kinetic energy and potential energy. At the maximum height, the kinetic energy (K₀) of the ball is completely converted into gravitational potential energy (U), given by U = mgh, where m is the mass of the ball, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height.
Set up the equation for the initial scenario where the kinetic energy is K₀. Since all the kinetic energy converts to potential energy at the maximum height, we have K₀ = mgh.
Solve the equation for h to express height in terms of the initial kinetic energy: h = K₀ / (mg).
Consider the scenario where the kinetic energy is doubled, i.e., 2K₀. Set up the new equation for maximum height with the doubled kinetic energy: 2K₀ = mgH, where H is the new height.
Solve for H in terms of K₀: H = 2K₀ / (mg). Compare this expression with the expression for h to find the relationship between H and h.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Kinetic Energy

Kinetic energy (K) is the energy an object possesses due to its motion, calculated using the formula K = 1/2 mv², where m is mass and v is velocity. In the context of the question, the initial kinetic energy K₀ determines how high the ball can ascend before its energy is converted to gravitational potential energy.
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Gravitational Potential Energy

Gravitational potential energy (U) is the energy stored in an object as it is lifted against the force of gravity, given by U = mgh, where m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is height. As the ball rises, its kinetic energy is transformed into potential energy until it reaches its maximum height.
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Conservation of Energy

The principle of conservation of energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another. In this scenario, the initial kinetic energy of the ball is converted into gravitational potential energy at its peak height, allowing us to relate changes in kinetic energy to changes in height.
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