Question

1. what is the correct equation for calculating kinetic energy?

kinetic energy = potential energy - total energy
kinetic energy = potential energy + total energy
kinetic energy = total energy - potential energy
kinetic energy = 1/2 x (total energy + potential energy)

Explanation:

In a system, total mechanical energy (Total energy) is the sum of kinetic energy (KE) and potential energy (PE), so \( \text{Total energy} = \text{KE} + \text{PE} \). Rearranging this gives \( \text{KE} = \text{Total energy} - \text{PE} \). The other options do not follow the energy conservation relationship for mechanical energy.

Answer:

C. Kinetic energy = Total energy - Potential energy