Question

which graph best represents the relationship between kinetic energy and mass?
a. graph with kinetic energy (j) on y - axis, mass (g) on x - axis, a straight line starting from the origin and increasing
b. graph with kinetic energy (j) on y - axis, mass (g) on x - axis, a straight line starting from a point on the y - axis and decreasing to the x - axis

Explanation:

Step1: Recall Kinetic Energy Formula

The formula for kinetic energy is $KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2$, where $m$ is mass and $v$ is velocity. Assuming velocity is constant, $KE$ is directly proportional to mass ($KE \propto m$ when $v$ is constant).

Step2: Analyze Graphs

• Graph A: Kinetic Energy increases linearly with mass (positive slope, passes through origin), consistent with $KE \propto m$.
• Graph B: Kinetic Energy decreases with mass (negative slope), which contradicts $KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2$.

Answer:

A. The graph with Kinetic Energy (J) on y - axis, Mass (g) on x - axis, and a straight line from the origin with positive slope.