Question

using potential and kinetic energy quick check
which statement correctly identifies the relative levels of kinetic and potential energy in a hydroelectric dam? (1 point)
kinetic and potential energy are both highest at the top.
kinetic and potential energy are both highest at the bottom.
kinetic energy is highest at the bottom; potential energy is highest at the top.
kinetic energy is highest at the top; potential energy is highest at the bottom.

Explanation:

• Potential energy ($PE = mgh$) depends on height ($h$). At the top of the dam, water has maximum height, so potential energy is highest there.
• Kinetic energy ($KE=\frac{1}{2}mv^{2}$). As water falls, its speed ($v$) increases. At the bottom, speed is maximum (due to acceleration from gravity), so kinetic energy is highest there.

Answer:

Kinetic energy is highest at the bottom, potential energy is highest at the top.