Can any object have mechanical energy even if its momentum is zero? Explain.

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
(A) Yes,an object can have mechanical energy even if its momentum is zero.
Mechanical energy is the sum of kinetic energy $(KE)$ and potential energy $(PE)$.
Momentum $(p)$ is defined as the product of mass $(m)$ and velocity $(v)$,i.e.,$p = mv$.
If momentum is zero $(p = 0)$,then the velocity of the object must be zero $(v = 0)$.
Since kinetic energy is given by $KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2$,if $v = 0$,then $KE = 0$.
However,the object can still possess potential energy due to its position or configuration (e.g.,a ball held at a height above the ground).
Therefore,the total mechanical energy $(ME = KE + PE)$ can be non-zero because $PE$ is non-zero.

Explore More

Similar Questions

Identify the energy possessed by a rolling stone.

What is the amount of work done by a force when a body moves in a circular path?

In each of the following cases,a force $F$ is acting on an object of mass $m$. The direction of displacement is from west to east,shown by the longer arrow. Observe the diagrams carefully and state whether the work done by the force is negative $(-ve)$,positive $(+ve)$,or zero $(0)$.

$A$ person is holding a bucket by applying a vertical force of $10 \,N$. He moves a horizontal distance of $5 \,m$ and then climbs up a vertical distance of $10 \,m$. Calculate the total work done by him. (in $J$)

The speed of a particle is doubled,its kinetic energy:

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo