Question

The flowing water of a river possesses ____ energy

• A. gravitational
• B. potential
• C. electrical
• D. kinetic

Answer 1

The correct option is D

kinetic

The explanation for the correct option:

The correct option is D. kinetic

1. Kinetic energy is the energy possessed by a body due to its motion.
2. In a river, when water flows continuously, it possesses kinetic energy by virtue of its flowing motion.
3. The kinetic energy of the flowing water depends on its rate of flow, in other words, the velocity of the water.

The explanation for the incorrect options:

A. gravitational

1. Gravitational energy is the potential energy possessed by a body due to a change in its position in a gravitational field.
2. A flowing river does not possess gravitational energy as when in motion its stored potential energy is completely converted to kinetic energy.

B. potential

1. Potential energy is the energy possessed by a body due to relative position.
2. When in motion, the stored potential energy of flowing water is completely converted to kinetic energy.

C. electrical energy

1. Electrical energy is the energy due to the flow of electrons in any object or body.
2. In flowing water, there is no flow of electrons, hence, it does not possess electrical energy.
3. However, if the flowing water is allowed to flow on a turbine, which rotates under the force exerted by the water, hydroelectrical energy is produced.

Thus, the flowing water of a river possesses kinetic energy. Option D is the correct answer.