To determine which object has the least amount of kinetic energy, we should consider their states of motion immediately after the release.
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Kinetic Energy Definition: Kinetic energy (KE) is given by the formula \( KE = \frac{1}{2} mv^2 \), where \( m \) is mass and \( v \) is velocity. Since both objects have the same mass and are released from rest, their velocity will influence their kinetic energy.
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Initial Conditions: Since both objects are the same size and mass, their kinetic energy will depend on their velocities immediately after release. Object 1 was released first, so it has had time to start moving and gain speed, whereas Object 2, being released later, will have less time to accelerate.
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Conclusion: Therefore, Object 2, having been released later and having a smaller velocity compared to Object 1, will have less kinetic energy at the time depicted in the diagram.
Based on this reasoning, Object 2 has the least amount of kinetic energy.