High School

What is the kinetic energy of a roller coaster car with a mass of 482 kg, descending from the highest peak of the coaster, which is 75 m tall, and moving with a velocity of 37.9 m/s? The gravitational acceleration is 9.81 m/s\(^2\).

Show all work, use correct significant figures, and include appropriate units.

Answer :

Answer: 346174.8 joules

Explanation:

Kinetic energy is the energy possessed by a moving object. It is measured in joules.

Kinetic energy = 1/2 x Mass x Velocity^2

Since mass of rollercoaster = 482kg

velocity = 37.9 m/s

Then, K.E = 1/2 x 482kg x (37.9 m/s)^2

= 0.5 x 692349.62

= 346174.81 joules

Thus, the kinetic energy of the descending rollercoaster is 346174.8 joules

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