Answer :
Final answer:
Using the gravitational potential energy formula, the 20 kg boy would rise approximately 1,000 meters above the ground when 196,000 J of energy is used to lift him.
Explanation:
The student's question involves calculating the height to which a 20 kg boy would rise given 196,000 J of energy is used to lift him from the ground. This scenario is a classic example of conservation of energy, where the energy used is converted into gravitational potential energy. The formula to calculate height (h) is derived from the gravitational potential energy equation:
Energy = mgh
Where:
- m = mass in kilograms
- g = acceleration due to gravity, which is 9.8 m/s² on Earth
- h = height in meters
Rearranging the formula to solve for height, we get:
h = Energy / (mg)
Plugging in the values given:
h = 196,000 J / (20 kg * 9.8 m/s²)
h = 196,000 J / (196 kg*m/s²)
h = 1,000 m
Therefore, the boy would rise approximately 1,000 meters above the ground.