When a rock is held above the ground,we say it has some potential energy.When we let it go,it falls and we say the potential energy is converted to kinetic energy.Finally,the rock hits the ground.What has happened to the energy?
A)The energy goes into the ground and,as a result,the orbit of the earth about the Sun is slightly changed.
B)The energy goes to producing sound and to heating the ground,rock,and surrounding air.
C)The rock keeps the energy inside it (saving it for later use).
D)It is lost forever.Energy does not have to be conserved.
E)It is transformed back into gravitational potential energy.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When the rock hits the ground, the potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, which is then converted into sound and thermal energy as the rock heats up the ground, rock, and surrounding air. Therefore, the energy is not lost forever, but rather transformed into other forms of energy.

When a Rock Is Held Above the Ground,we Say It