Question

multiple choice question
which of the following best describes the relationship between the external and internal energy of an object?
o external energy is another term for its kinetic energy, while internal energy is another term for its potential energy.
o external energy is the force applied to an object, while internal energy is the opposing force of the object itself.
o external energy is the total potential and kinetic energy of the object; internal energy is the total potential and kinetic energy of the objects molecules.

Explanation:

External energy refers to the energy associated with the object as a whole, which is the sum of its potential and kinetic energy. Internal energy is related to the microscopic motion and configuration of the object's molecules, being the total potential and kinetic energy of the object's molecules.

• The first option is incorrect because external energy is not just kinetic energy and internal energy is not just potential energy.
• The second option is wrong as external energy is not a force and internal energy is not an opposing force.

Answer:

External energy is the total potential and kinetic energy of the object; internal energy is the total potential and kinetic energy of the object's molecules.