1. Understand the Concepts
* Kinetic Energy (KE): The energy an object possesses due to its motion. KE = (1/2)mv² where m is mass and v is velocity.
* Potential Energy (PE): The energy an object possesses due to its position relative to a reference point. PE = mgh where m is mass, g is acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s²), and h is height.
* Conservation of Energy: In the absence of external forces, the total mechanical energy (KE + PE) of a system remains constant.
2. Apply Conservation of Energy
Since the rock falls from a height, its initial energy is all potential energy (PE). When it hits the ground, its potential energy is converted into kinetic energy (KE). Therefore:
* Initial PE = Final KE
3. Solve for the Mass
* Initial PE: mgh = m * 9.8 m/s² * 10 m = 98m J
* Final KE: 33000 J
* Set them equal: 98m J = 33000 J
* Solve for mass (m): m = 33000 J / 98 m/s² ≈ 336.7 kg
4. Calculate Weight
* Weight = mass * gravity
* Weight = 336.7 kg * 9.8 m/s² ≈ 3300 N
Therefore, the weight of the rock is approximately 3300 N.