Question%0D%0AA comet speeds up as it approaches the Sun. Which statement about its kinetic energy is correct?
To determine the correct statement about the kinetic energy of a comet as it speeds up while approaching the Sun, we need to understand the relationship between kinetic energy and speed.
The kinetic energy of an object is given by the equation:
KE = 1/2 * mass * velocity^2
Where KE represents the kinetic energy, mass is the mass of the object, and velocity is the speed of the object.
Since the statement mentions that the comet speeds up, it implies that its velocity increases. Now, let's consider the possibilities.
A. The kinetic energy of the comet decreases as it speeds up.
B. The kinetic energy of the comet remains constant as it speeds up.
C. The kinetic energy of the comet increases as it speeds up.
Among these options, the correct statement is C. The kinetic energy of the comet increases as it speeds up.
This is because the kinetic energy is directly proportional to the square of the velocity. As the velocity of the comet increases, the kinetic energy will increase even more. Consequently, as the comet gets closer to the Sun and speeds up, its kinetic energy will continue to rise.