The difference in the distances thrown with the 16-pound and 12-pound shots can be attributed to the relationship between mass, speed, and kinetic energy. Kinetic energy is calculated using the formula \( KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2 \), where \( m \) is mass and \( v \) is speed. Although the 16-pound shot is heavier, its greater mass means it may be thrown with less speed compared to the lighter 12-pound shot, which can be thrown faster despite its lighter weight. Therefore, the higher speed of the 12-pound shot contributes significantly to its kinetic energy, allowing it to travel farther even though it has less mass.
Question
An athlete is practicing shotput using a 16-pound shot, and he throws it 40 feet. He then uses a 12-pound shot and throws it 50 feet. In three to four sentences, explain why there is a difference in these throws using the ideas of mass and speed and how each relates to kinetic energy.
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