Question

the total energy of the student is 6 units.
at a certain point after the student jumps,
their kinetic energy is 2 units.
how many units of potential energy are there?
4 units
3 units
2 units
6 units

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the energy conservation principle (total energy = kinetic energy + potential energy)

Let \( E_{total} \) be total energy, \( E_{kinetic} \) be kinetic energy, and \( E_{potential} \) be potential energy. So \( E_{total}=E_{kinetic} + E_{potential} \).

Step2: Substitute the given values

We know \( E_{total} = 6 \) units and \( E_{kinetic}=2 \) units. Substitute into the formula: \( 6 = 2+E_{potential} \).

Step3: Solve for potential energy

Subtract 2 from both sides: \( E_{potential}=6 - 2=4 \) units.

Answer:

4 units