Final answer:
To calculate the cougar's potential energy at the edge of the cliff, we can use the equation PE = mgh, where m is the mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height. Substituting the given values, we find that the potential energy is 58800 joules.
Step-by-step explanation:
Potential energy is calculated using the equation: PE = mgh
where PE is the potential energy, m is the mass of the object, g is the acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.8 m/s²), and h is the height.
In this case, the mass of the cougar is given as 75 kg and the height of the cliff is 80 m. Plugging in these values into the equation, we get:
PE = (75 kg)(9.8 m/s²)(80 m) = 58800 J
Therefore, the cougar's potential energy at the edge of the cliff is 58800 joules.
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