Question

Which of the following energies do water stored in a dam and the water flowing from it contain?

• A. Water stored in a dam has potential energy and water flowing from a dam has kinetic energy
• B. Water stored in a dam has kinetic energy and water flowing from a dam has potential energy
• C. Both have kinetic energy
• D. Both have potential energy

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Water stored in a dam has potential energy and water flowing from a dam has kinetic energy

Water stored in a dam is at rest and thus it possesses energy by virtue of its position. This energy is potential energy.

Once the water starts flowing, it possesses energy by virtue of its motion. This energy is kinetic energy.