4. In the diagram below, two objects of the same size and mass are released from rest at the starting position. Object 1 was released before Object 2 was released. The diagram below shows the positions of Objects 1 and 2 a short time after both were released. Which object in the figure has the least amount of kinetic energy? (1 point) Responses Object 1 Object 1 Object 2 Object 2 Both objects have the same amount of kinetic energy. Both objects have the same amount of kinetic energy. Neither object has any kinetic energy.

3 answers

To determine which object has the least amount of kinetic energy, we should consider their states of motion immediately after the release.

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

what is my answer

Your answer is: Object 2 has the least amount of kinetic energy.