Final answer:
The total potential energy in the system is -27 J.
Step-by-step explanation:
In this question, we have to determine the total potential energy (PE) in the system given the amounts of mechanical energy (ME) and kinetic energy (KE). Potential energy is the energy that an object possesses because of its position or condition. The total mechanical energy in a system is the sum of potential energy and kinetic energy.
Since potential energy (PE) is the energy possessed by an object due to its position, it does not depend on the object's motion.
Therefore, we can calculate the total potential energy in the system by subtracting the kinetic energy (KE) from the mechanical energy (ME). In this case, the total potential energy (PE) is:
Total PE = Total ME - Total KE
We are given that the mechanical energy (ME) is 20 J and the kinetic energy (KE) is 47 J. Substituting these values into the equation:
Total PE = 20 J - 47 J
= -27 J
Therefore, the total potential energy in the system is -27 J.