Introduction
Kinetic energy (KE) is the energy possessed by an object due to its motion. It is directly proportional to the object’s mass (m) and the square of its velocity (v). The relationship between KE and mass can be represented by the following equation:
KE = 1/2 mv^2
Where:
- KE is kinetic energy in joules (J)
- m is mass in kilograms (kg)
- v is velocity in meters per second (m/s)
Which graph best represents the relationship between KE and mass?
The graph that best represents the relationship between KE and mass is a parabola.
This is because KE increases as the square of the mass. As a result, the graph of KE versus mass is a parabola that opens upwards.
The following graph shows the relationship between KE and mass for an object moving at a constant velocity:
[Image of a parabola with KE on the y-axis and mass on the x-axis]
Other types of graphs
In addition to a parabola, there are other types of graphs that can be used to represent the relationship between KE and mass. These include:
- Linear graph: A linear graph shows a straight-line relationship between KE and mass. This type of graph is only accurate for objects moving at very low velocities.
- Exponential graph: An exponential graph shows a curved relationship between KE and mass. This type of graph is only accurate for objects moving at very high velocities.
Conclusion
The graph that best represents the relationship between KE and mass is a parabola. This is because KE increases as the square of the mass. As a result, the graph of KE versus mass is a parabola that opens upwards.
Additional information
The relationship between KE and mass is an important concept in physics. It is used to calculate the energy of moving objects, such as cars, airplanes, and rockets.
The KE of an object can be increased by increasing its mass or its velocity. For example, a car with a larger mass will have more KE than a car with a smaller mass. Similarly, a car that is moving faster will have more KE than a car that is moving slower.
The KE of an object can be used to do work. For example, the KE of a car can be used to move the car forward. The KE of a rocket can be used to lift the rocket off the ground.
FAQs
- What is the relationship between KE and mass?
KE is directly proportional to the mass of an object.
- Which graph best represents the relationship between KE and mass?
A parabola.
- How can the KE of an object be increased?
By increasing its mass or its velocity.
- What is the KE of an object used for?
To do work.
Additional resources