Final answer:
The kinetic energy of a 15.0-kg model plane flying horizontally at 12.5 m/s is calculated using the kinetic energy formula, resulting in 1171.875 Joules.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question on how to calculate the kinetic energy of a model plane can be answered by using the formula for kinetic energy:
Kinetic Energy (KE) = ½ × mass × velocity2
Given that the mass (m) of the plane is 15.0 kg and the velocity (v) is 12.5 m/s, we can substitute these values into the formula to find the kinetic energy of the plane:
KE = ½ × 15.0 kg × (12.5 m/s)2
KE = ½ × 15.0 kg × 156.25 m2/s2
KE = 7.5 kg × 156.25 m2/s2
KE = 1171.875 J
Therefore, the kinetic energy of the plane is 1171.875 Joules.