Chapter 4, Problem 12STP

To determine

To explain: The form of energy to which the book’s kinetic energy changes when it slides across a horizontal table.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

According to the law of conservation of energy, energy is not created or destroyed but is transformed from one form to a different form.

When the book slides across the table, their surfaces rub together. Friction is produced in this process. This friction in turn converts the kinetic energy of the book to thermal energy. Hence the book loses its kinetic energy because it changes to thermal energy. When the book loses all its kinetic energy, it comes to a stop.

Conclusion:

The book’s kinetic energy is changed into thermal energy when it slides across a horizontal table.