Question

which ball has the greatest potential energy? a) a mass = 5 kg b) b mass = 3 kg c) c mass = 8 kg d) d mass = 2 kg

Explanation:

Step1: Recall potential - energy formula

The gravitational potential energy formula is $U = mgh$, where $m$ is mass, $g$ is the acceleration due to gravity (constant near the Earth's surface), and $h$ is height. Assuming the height $h$ and $g$ are the same for all balls, the ball with the greatest mass will have the greatest potential energy.

Step2: Compare masses

Given masses: $m_A=5\ kg$, $m_B = 3\ kg$, $m_C=8\ kg$, $m_D=2\ kg$. Since $8>5>3>2$, ball C has the greatest mass.

Answer:

c) C