Question

what happens when a soccer ball is kicked?
a. potential energy is converted into kinetic energy
b. it loses energy
c. it gains potential energy

Explanation:

When a soccer ball is kicked, it starts moving. Kinetic energy is the energy of motion. Before being kicked, if the ball is at rest (assuming no height - related potential energy change in a simple case), it has no kinetic energy. After being kicked, it has kinetic energy. Potential energy (in a non - height - change scenario here) is the energy of position. Since the ball starts moving (gains kinetic energy) from a state of (near -) rest (low kinetic energy), potential energy (if we consider the stored energy in the foot - ball system before kicking as a form of potential - like energy due to the position of the foot ready to kick) is converted into kinetic energy. Option b is incorrect because the ball gains kinetic energy (energy is transferred to it). Option c is incorrect as in a simple kicking scenario (not lifting the ball vertically), there is no gain in potential energy (related to height).

Answer:

a. Potential energy is converted into kinetic energy