AP Physics B : Understanding Kinetic Energy
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Example Questions
Example Question #1 : Understanding Kinetic Energy
A 
We can use work and energy to solve this problem. First, solve for the initial kinetic energy of the shopping cart, using its initial velocity:
The final kinetic energy will be zero, since the cart will come to a complete stop. Work is equal to the change in mechanical energy (in this case kinetic energy).
Work can also be written as the product of a force acting over a distance. In this case, the constant force is friction.
Use the calculated value of work and the force of friction to solve for the distance. Remember that force of friction will be negative since it acts in the opposite direction of the motion.
Example Question #1 : Understanding Kinetic Energy
If an 
We know that 
We can use this to find the total kinetic energy.
Example Question #21 : Ap Physics 1
A 
First, we calculate the initial kinetic energy of the car:
Then, calculate the final kinetic energy after the car has reached a velocity of 
To find the change in kinetic energy, we subtract the initial energy from the final energy.
This answer in positive because the car gains energy when it increases its velocity.
Example Question #1 : Understanding Kinetic Energy
A 
The first thing we need to find is the final velocity of the car. We know it starts from rest and has an acceleration of 
The formula for kinetic energy is:
We can use the calculated final velocity and the mass of the car to determine its final kinetic energy.
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