Question

Before the coyote begins to fall, what can you tell about the potential and kinetic energy of the roadrunner vs the coyote?

Select all correct responses.

(3 points)
Responses

The potential energy of the one with the most mass is greater than the other.
The potential energy of the one with the most mass is greater than the other.

Weight is the same for both, regardless of mass.
Weight is the same for both, regardless of mass.

Ignoring air resistance and assuming they have the same mass, the kinetic energy of both is equal right before impact with the ground.
Ignoring air resistance and assuming they have the same mass, the kinetic energy of both is equal right before impact with the ground.

The potential energy of both are equal.

Answer 1

Select:
- The potential energy of the one with the most mass is greater than the other.
- Ignoring air resistance and assuming they have the same mass, the kinetic energy of both is equal right before impact with the ground.

Reasoning (brief):
- Gravitational potential energy = mgh, so at the same height the object with greater mass has greater PE.
- Neglecting air resistance, an object falling from the same height converts the same mgh into kinetic energy; if their masses are the same they will have the same KE right before impact.
- The other statements are false: weight depends on mass (not the same regardless of mass), and the PEs are only equal if both mass and height are the same.