Question

the total energy of the cup is 4 units. the cup is pushed off the table. at a point in time during its fall, it only has 1 unit of potential energy. how many units of kinetic energy are there? 2 units 3 units 1 unit 4 units

Explanation:

Step1: Recall energy conservation principle

The total mechanical energy (sum of potential and kinetic energy) of an object in a closed system (neglecting air resistance here) remains constant. So, \( \text{Total Energy} = \text{Potential Energy} + \text{Kinetic Energy} \).

Step2: Substitute known values

We know total energy is 4 units and potential energy at that point is 1 unit. Let \( KE \) be kinetic energy. Then, \( 4 = 1 + KE \).

Step3: Solve for kinetic energy

Subtract 1 from both sides: \( KE = 4 - 1 = 3 \).

Answer:

3 units