If a gas cloud shrinks, its gravitational potential energy is converted into
A)chemical energy.
B)thermal energy and radiative energy.
C)kinetic energy and sound waves.
D)only radiative energy.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As a gas cloud shrinks, the particles within it collide more frequently and with greater force, causing an increase in temperature (thermal energy). This increase in temperature causes the gas cloud to emit radiation (radiative energy). Therefore, the gravitational potential energy is converted into both thermal and radiative energy.

If a Gas Cloud Shrinks, Its Gravitational Potential Energy Is