Question

Chapter 9 Chapter Review

297
6. The starting line of a cross country foot race is at the
bottom of a hill. Which form(s) of mechanical energy of
the runners will change when the starting gun is fired?
Kinetic energy only
a.
b.
Potential energy only
1
c.
Both kinetic and potential energy
d. Neither kinetic nor potential energy
02 Simple Machines

Answer 1

c. Both kinetic and potential energy

Step-by-step explanation:

When the starting gun is fired at the beginning of a cross country foot race, the runners will begin to move from a stationary position at the bottom of a hill. This movement will result in a change in both their kinetic energy and potential energy.

Kinetic energy is the energy of motion, and it will increase as the runners accelerate from a stationary position and begin moving at a faster speed.

Potential energy is energy stored in an object due to its position or shape. The runners at the starting line have potential energy due to their position at the bottom of a hill. As they begin to move upward, their potential energy will decrease as they move further away from the ground.

Therefore, both kinetic and potential energy will change when the starting gun is fired at the beginning of a cross country foot race.