Question

A body is dropped from a height h. At height h/2, it will possess _____.

• A. only potential energy
• B. only kinetic energy
• C. more potential energy, less kinetic energy
• D. equal amount of potential and kinetic energy

Answer 1

The correct option is D

equal amount of potential and kinetic energy

From Conservation of energy the total energy remains constant.
At Height = h
the PE = mgh &
KE = 0 (ball is dropped so v =0)
Total Energy = PE + KE = mgh
Now,
At Height = h/2
PE = mgh/2 & TE = mgh
PE + KE = TE
KE = mgh - mgh/2 = mgh/2
So, PE = KE = mgh/2
Hence, equal amount of potential and kinetic energy