Chapter 4, Problem 13STP

To determine

To explain: The point on the ball’s path where the kinetic energy from the ball’s motion is the least.

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 bat hits the ball, the ball moves and possesses kinetic energy due to its motion. As the ball rises in air, its kinetic energy decreases. This decrease in kinetic energy is overcome by an increase in gravitational potential energy which the ball now possesses due to its height. When the ball is at its highest position, the gravitational potential energy is greater than kinetic energy. As the ball starts to fall, the reverse happens, kinetic energy increases and gravitational potential energy decreases.

Conclusion:

Kinetic energy from the ball’s motion is the least at the highest position on the ball’s path.