Regarding kinetic energy, which statement is true?

• A. It is zero when the object is at rest
• B. It only exists when gravity is present
• C. It is stored energy due to position
• D. It is a measure of force

Answer: (A)

Kinetic energy is the energy an object has because it is moving, and it depends on both mass and speed through the formula KE = 1/2 m v^2. When the object is at rest in a given frame of reference, its velocity is zero, so KE = 1/2 m (0)^2 = 0, regardless of how heavy it is. Gravity doesn’t create kinetic energy by itself; any moving object—whether under gravity or in a vacuum—has kinetic energy, and it changes as speed changes. Energy stored due to position is potential energy, not kinetic. And kinetic energy is not a measure of force; force can change kinetic energy, but KE itself is about motion, not a push or pull.