Answer :
Final answer:
The kinetic energy of the ball just before it hits the ground is equivalent to the gravitational potential energy it had initially, which is 51.7 Joules.
Explanation:
The question is seeking to calculate the kinetic energy of a ball just before it hits the ground, given its mass, time taken to fall, and gravitational potential energy. According to the principle of conservation of energy, the potential energy at the height from which it was dropped will be equal to the kinetic energy just before it strikes the ground. To solve this, we use the formula for kinetic energy:
KE = ½ m v^2
Where KE is kinetic energy, m is mass, and v is final velocity. Since the initial gravitational potential energy (PE) is given, and assuming no other forces are acting on the ball (such as air resistance), this potential energy will convert entirely into kinetic energy (KE = PE). Therefore, the kinetic energy of the ball just before impact will also be 51.7 Joules.