Question
Which statement correctly identifies the relative levels of kinetic and potential energy in a hydroelectric dam? (1 point) Kinetic energy is highest at the bottom; potential energy is highest at the top. Kinetic and potential energy are both highest at the bottom. Kinetic and potential energy are both highest at the top. Kinetic energy is highest at the top; potential energy is highest at the bottom.
Ask by Reid Bryant. in the United States
Jan 27,2025
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Answer
Kinetic energy is highest at the bottom; potential energy is highest at the top.
Solution
The correct statement is:
**Kinetic energy is highest at the bottom; potential energy is highest at the top.**
**Explanation:**
- **Top of the Dam:** Water is held at a height, giving it maximum **potential energy** due to gravity. The **kinetic energy** is relatively low because the water is not moving much.
- **Bottom of the Dam:** As water flows down, its **potential energy** decreases while its **kinetic energy** increases, reaching its highest at the bottom just before it is used to generate electricity.
**Correct Answer:**
Kinetic energy is highest at the bottom; potential energy is highest at the top.
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Kinetic energy is highest at the bottom; potential energy is highest at the top. In a hydroelectric dam, water stored at a height possesses potential energy due to its elevated position. As the water flows downward, this potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, resulting in the maximum kinetic energy being present at the bottom of the dam where the water has the greatest speed as it moves through the turbines.
